The use of drugs in swimming

The use of drugs to enhance athletic performance poses tremendous potential risk to amateur sport. The aquatic sports are not immune from this risk. Although the exact incidence of drug usage among aquatic athletes is not known, empirical evidence would suggest that there are indeed athletes who are using substances in an effort to enhance performance. A number of the commonly used substances have been discussed and their risks and side effects reviewed. Future success in eradicating drug usage in sport will only result from increased efforts directed at enhancement of athlete education, development of strict policies dealing with those athletes who use banned substances, and refinement of drug testing procedures.