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Marijuana as doping in sports.
Daniel R Campos1, Mauricio Yonamine, Regina L de Moraes Moreau
1Laboratory of Analytical Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, CEP:05508-900, São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 580, B13B, Brazil.
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|May 15, 2003
Summary
Cannabis use in sports is prohibited due to its negative impact on athletic performance. Despite potential anxiety reduction, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has ergolytic effects, leading to positive doping cases in athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Pharmacology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Cannabinoids are prohibited in sports by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) since 1989.
- Doping control for cannabis involves urinalysis for carboxy-THC, with a cut-off of 15 ng/mL.
- Cannabis use is debated for therapeutic potential but lacks ergogenic benefits in sports.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss factors discouraging cannabis use in sports.
- To highlight the ergolytic effects of cannabinoids on athletic performance.
- To address positive doping cases related to cannabis in Brazilian athletes.
Main Methods:
- Review of IOC and sports federation regulations on prohibited substances.
- Analysis of pharmacological effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
- Examination of doping control procedures and positive case data for carboxy-THC.
Main Results:
- Cannabinoids do not enhance athletic performance and possess ergolytic properties.
- THC can negatively impact athletic performance through cardiovascular and psychomotor effects.
- Positive carboxy-THC cases have been detected in various athletes, including soccer, volleyball, and cycling.
Conclusions:
- Cannabis use is detrimental to athletic performance, even under permitted circumstances.
- Athletes should be discouraged from using cannabis products due to performance-impairing effects.
- Continued vigilance and education are necessary to prevent cannabis doping in sports.