Changes to the Prohibited List 2023

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has published its updated Prohibited List of Substances and Methods which will come into force on 1st January 2023. As part of the annual review process, the WADA List Expert Group reviews and revises the List, taking into account submissions from Stakeholders, advances in scientific and medical research, information on doping practices etc. A substance or method is added to the List if it meets two of three criteria: it has performance-enhancing potential, poses a danger to athletes’ health or its use is against the spirit of sport.

Changes of note to Prescribers based in Ireland include:

S9. Glucocorticoids: WADA have clarified that the otic administration of glucocorticoids is not prohibited.

P1. Beta blockers: At the request of the World Under Water Federation (CMAS) beta-blockers will be prohibited Out-of-competition as well as In-competition in all subdisciplines of freediving, spearfishing and target shooting.

From 1st January 2023 beta blockers will be prohibited In-Competition in the sport of Mini-Golf (WMF).

WADA also wish to highlight the following change which will be implemented in 2024: S7. Narcotics (from January 1st 2024): The use of tramadol, by any route, during the In-Competition period will be prohibited and will require Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) Approval. This change has been highlighted now to allow time for Doctors, Athletes and their support personnel to familiarise themselves with the new changes. While tramadol will not be prohibited Out-of-Competition tramadol has the potential to remain in the system up to and during competition.

The 2023 List has also been updated to include additional examples of anabolic agents (e.g. adrenosterone , epistane, S-23 and YK-11) found in supplements promoted for their muscle enhancing properties. More examples of methylhexanamine related substances [e.g., 1,3-dimethylamylamine (1,3 DMAA), 1,4-dimethylamylamine (1,4-DMAA) widely advertised as energy boosting and weight loss supplements have also been included.

Siobhán Leonard, Director of Anti-Doping & Ethics stated that “MIMS is a valuable resource to athlete support personnel as it provides information on whether each medical product is permitted, restricted or prohibited in sport. It is important that all athletes who could be tested under the Irish Anti-Doping Rules can check with their doctors the status of their prescribed medication”.

More information is available from Sport Ireland at (01) 8608818 or their website.

December 2022