The world anti-doping program and the primary care physician.

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Anti-Doping Regulations

Background:

• Doping offenses occur with prohibited substances or methods, irrespective of medical prescription.
• Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) provide a pathway for athletes needing prohibited substances/methods for medical reasons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explain the World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards.
• To outline the procedures for TUE requests and their review.

Main Methods:

• Review of the World Anti-Doping Code and associated International Standards.
• Description of the TUE application and review process.

Main Results:

• The World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards govern anti-doping regulations.
• A defined process exists for athletes to apply for and receive TUEs.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to the TUE process is mandatory for athletes requiring prohibited substances or methods.
• Understanding and following TUE procedures prevents anti-doping rule violations.