WADA publish 2019 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods

Each year, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) updates their List of Prohibited Substances and Methods. The 2019 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods (List), which comes into force on 1 January 2019, was published by WADA in October.

WADA Director General Olivier Niggli said: “WADA is pleased to announce the publication of the 2019 Prohibited List. Updated annually, it is one of the cornerstones of the global anti-doping program. Every year, we review the List in consultation with a wide range of stakeholders. It is vital that we stay ahead of those that endeavor to cheat the system so in reviewing the List, experts review sources such as scientific and medical research, trends, and intelligence gathered from law enforcement and pharmaceutical companies.”

The List designates what substances and methods are prohibited both in- and out-of-competition, and which substances are banned in particular sports. For a substance or method to be added to the List, it must be determined that it meets two of the following three criteria:

  1. It has the potential to enhance or enhances sport performance
  2. It represents an actual or potential health risk to the athletes
  3. It violates the spirit of sport

It should be noted that for athletes who have a legitimate medical reason for using a prohibited substance or method that is on the List, they may apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption.

The 2019 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods can be found here.

WADA have also provided a Summary of Major Modifications, which can be found here.