The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List will undergo changes starting from January 1, 2024, according to the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA).
The ITIA has announced that tramadol, a widely used pain-killing drug, will be added to the list of prohibited substances.
This decision comes after the List Expert Advisory Group recommended the inclusion of tramadol, citing its significant use in sports and the risks associated with its abuse.
Tramadol is known to have dose-dependent risks of physical dependence, opiate addiction, and overdoses, leading to its classification as a controlled drug in many countries.
Additionally, studies sponsored by WADA have found that tramadol has the potential to enhance sports performance.
The ITIA is committed to ensuring that players and their support teams are fully aware of these changes. It will provide direct communication, education sessions, and visual reminders at tournaments to facilitate the transition for players.
Players currently using tramadol for pain management are advised to discontinue its use before January 2024, unless they successfully apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) based on legitimate medical grounds.
Proactive action is necessary to prevent unintentional doping violations and protect players from the consequences of non-compliance.
The full list of prohibited substances can be found on the WADA website.
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Jessica Roberts serves up the latest in the world of tennis. With a love for the racket sport, she reports on tennis matches, player rankings, and Grand Slam events, ensuring readers stay informed about the tennis world.