Prohibited Substances and Methods

The Prohibited List for humans is updated annually by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and identifies those substances and methods which are banned, primarily because of their potential to enhance performance in sport or their masking potential in combination with health risks. The Prohibited List for Dogs, which is managed by IFSS, has a similar background, but also reflects legal and veterinarian requirements.

Check your medications
Many medical treatments available for common medical conditions may contain prohibited substances or methods. You need to be aware that these are readily available, prescribed by your doctor/veterinary or bought over the counter in a pharmacy.

To avoid doping by mistake, always check every single medication (every substance) or method before you use it – even if you have used it before:

  • Consult your sports doctor/veterinary, or
  • For human use, consult the website of your National Antidoping Organization (NADO), or
  • Check your medication or method yourself against the relevant Prohibited List. However, since this is quite complicated without pharmacological knowledge, IFSS strongly advise you to seek professional assistance.

Human Therapeutic Use Exemption/Controlled Medication of Dogs
If you need to use a prohibited substance or method for medical reasons, you are advised to apply for a Human Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) or Controlled Medication of Dogs.

Food supplements
Athletes are advised to be vigilant in using any supplement, also for their dogs. The supplement industry is highly unregulated. No guarantee can be given that any supplement is free from prohibited substances. There are also health risks involved. Too many athletes have already been sanctioned due to unnecessary supplement use.

Excellent nutrition is the safest and best way to facilitate peak athlete performance. A planned and balanced diet can generally meet all your nutritional needs. If you still are considering using any supplement, you are strongly advised to consult your sport doctor or veterinarian in advance. Remember that under the doping rules you are strictly liable for what you eat or otherwise partake of.

Learn more:

  • Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes. (pdf)
    Especially note that all injections of glucocorticoids (”cortisone”) are now prohibited during the In Competition Period.