Cognitive Enhancing Drugs in Sport: Current and Future Concerns

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Neuroscience
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Sporting authorities note increased availability of cognitive enhancing drugs (CEDs) for improved focus and decision-making.
• Health risks of CEDs in athletes are less understood compared to performance-enhancing drugs.
• This review explores the emerging role and implications of CEDs in sport.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a foundational understanding of CEDs and their use in sports.
• To examine the types, nature, impact, and implications of CED use for athletes and sport policy.
• To highlight challenges for sport policy regarding CEDs.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was conducted.
• The review focused on CEDs beyond clinical use, including limited studies in the sporting domain.
• Literature on the impact of CEDs in sport and policy challenges was considered.

Main Results:

• Widespread use of CEDs presents potential negative health impacts for athletes.
• Policy-makers require guidance to prevent and control CED use and mitigate harm.
• Multi-faceted concerns and key issues for sporting bodies regarding CED adoption are highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Actions to counter the spread of CEDs in sport are currently limited.
• Greater understanding and attention are needed to address the threat of CEDs in sports.
• The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) acknowledges the threat but requires enhanced strategies.