DISCLAIMER: This content is NOT being updated and is only current as of the publication date.
Preparing for competition is a demanding process, but it’s important to remember the anti-doping requirements that go along with high-level sporting events. We created a brief list of anti-doping responsibilities to help you prepare to compete clean:
Update your Whereabouts
- Quickly and easily update your Whereabouts by logging into athlete.usada.org/Account/Login
- On the go? Use the USADA Updater App to update via a mobile device
- Don’t have the USADA Updater App? No worries – search USADA in your application store.
Tip: Don’t forget to include your travel days in your Whereabouts submission.
Double-check the status of your medications
- Use Global DRO on any personal device: GlobalDRO.com
Hint: You can search for the brand name and the active ingredients in your medication. - Call: 719-785-2000
- Email: drugreference@usada.org
- Remember: There are commonly used medications and substances that are prohibited in-competition, such as:
- Pseudoephedrine, commonly found in cold medications
- Cortisone and other glucocorticoids, depending on the route of administration
- ADHD medications
- Pain killers, such as Oxycodone
- Marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids
Realize the risks of using dietary supplements
- Positive tests can come from dietary supplements that contain prohibited substances.
Caution: Supplements could contain prohibited steroids or stimulants that may not be listed on the label. - Athletes should consult USADA’s Supplement Connect resource and Supplement High Risk List to become informed consumers.
Tip: The only way to have zero risk is to use zero supplements!
Request a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) for your medication
- If your medication is prohibited, apply for a TUE at as far in advance as possible, keeping in mind that it can take up to 21 days for a decision to be issued.
- You might be a non-national athlete, so don’t forget to determine your competition level and explore the requirements that apply to you.
- For international-level athletes or those sports with a sport-specific international federation TUE, you can submit the application to USADA and we will get the information to your international federation.
- You need a TUE for intravenous infusions and/or injections of more than 100 mL per 12 hour period, except for those legitimately received in the course of hospital treatment, surgical procedures, or clinical diagnostic investigations. This applies regardless of whether the substance administered is prohibited or permitted.
Bonus FAQ: Before an event, should I stop taking medications prohibited in-competition only?
*Information in this post has been updated to reflect the most current Prohibited List.