The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has published the 2024 Prohibited List, set to take effect on January 1, 2024.
A detailed summary, including Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes, is available for reference.
Key changes in the 2024 list are as follows:
- Tramadol Banned in Competition:
- Effective January 1, 2024, tramadol will be classified as a prohibited substance in-competition under the S7. Narcotics category. This decision follows evidence of its prevalent use in sports and WADA-funded research confirming tramadol’s performance-enhancing potential and health risks due to its opioid properties.
Athletes must:
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- Be aware that tramadol use in or near competition times risks a positive doping test
- Inform medical professionals of their athlete status to explore non-prohibited medication alternatives if tramadol is prescribed
- Understand specific competition and International Federation rules regarding in-competition periods to manage tramadol use accordingly
- Prepare a comprehensive medical file for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) application if tramadol use is necessary.
- Plasma Donation via Plasmapheresis Allowed:
- From January 1, 2024, plasma donation through plasmapheresis at registered collection centers will be permitted without requiring a TUE. This change, revising the previous prohibition under M1. Manipulation of Blood and Blood Components, enables athletes to donate plasma for humanitarian or personal reasons. Athletes are advised to maintain records of their donations, including dates and locations, for potential medical record requests.
- New Washout Period for Rectal Glucocorticoids:
- WADA introduces specific washout periods for rectal glucocorticoids. The standard washout time is three days, except for triamcinolone (diacetate or acetonide), which requires a ten-day period. Athletes prescribed these substances within the washout period before a competition should keep thorough medical records for a possible TUE application.
Further details on these changes, glucocorticoids, and TUEs are available on WADA’s official website : www.wada-ama.org.