The 2024 WADA List of Prohibited Substances: What You Need to Know

WADA has announced the 2024 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods, the international standard for banned substances and their related compounds in sport. The most notable addition in the upcoming year's list is tramadol's being banned in competition. For a list of other modifications, click here. 

The WADA List of Prohibited Substances and Methods includes a wide range of substances and methods prohibited in competition. These include several categories, such as anabolic agents, hormones and related substances, stimulants, narcotics, and cannabinoids, among others. Additionally, some methods are prohibited, such as blood doping and gene doping. All of these are intended to prevent athletes from gaining an unfair advantage by using substances that would improve their performance.

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For a substance or method to be added to the List, it must meet at least two of the following three criteria:
1. It has the potential to enhance or enhances sport performance.
2. It represents an actual or potential health risk to the athlete.
3. It violates the spirit of sport.

For athletes who require a prohibited substance or method but have a legitimate medical reason, they can apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) to meet the criteria outlined in the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE).

How Does Informed Sport Help? 

To help athletes and sports supplement brands stay compliant with the WADA List, Informed Sport certification offers a reliable solution. Informed Sport is a banned substance testing programme for sports supplement products. Every batch of a certified product is subjected to a rigorous testing process to ensure they do not contain any prohibited substances. In addition, certification also reviews the raw materials and manufacturing process to guarantee transparency and safety.

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Informed Sport testing is performed in ISO 17025 accredited laboratories, providing trustworthy results that adhere to international scientific standards. This certification gives athletes the confidence to know that every supplement they take has been tested, reviewed, and approved for use in sport while also avoiding any potential for adverse health conditions.

As the WADA List of Prohibited Substances and Methods continuously evolves, it is more important than ever to stay informed. By understanding what is prohibited and the criteria for inclusion, sports supplement brands and athletes can work to ensure they remain compliant. The Informed Sport certification offers a reliable solution for both, guaranteeing that every batch of a product has gone through a rigorous testing process. Remember, athletes must be responsible and always thoroughly research any supplements or substances they plan to use to avoid any adverse health effects or doping violations.