The World Anti-Doping Prohibited List identifies substances and methods that athletes cannot take or use, and presents them in a number of categories. It is important to understand that the Prohibited List is not exhaustive in that several categories of substances are ‘open’. For example, some categories include ‘other substances with a similar chemical structure or similar biological effect(s)’.

Every year there are hundreds, if not thousands, of new or modified substances developed in laboratories, or new products released onto the market or black-market. There are also people willing to push the boundaries with experimental substances and methods which have not been clinically tested or approved for human use.

For these reasons there will be instances where SLADA must consult with an extensive range of stakeholders (including WADA), as well as conduct a thorough examination of products and methods before it forms a view on the status of a particular substance, method or product.

Under the World Anti-Doping Code’s strict liability principle, athletes are ultimately responsible for any substance found in their body, regardless of how it got there. The presence of a prohibited substance may result in an anti-doping rule violation, whether its use was intentional or unintentional. SLADA’s advice to athletes and support personnel is to use caution when considering the use of a particular substance or product as it may lead to a possible anti-doping rule violation.