Prohibited substances

The Prohibited List is published by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). It details all substances and methods that are prohibited or banned in sport, and is updated every year on January 1.

A substance or method may be included on the list if it meets any two of the following criteria:

• it has the potential to enhance sporting performance
• it presents an actual or potential health risk to the athlete
• it violates the spirit of sport.

Check the 2023 Prohibited List

Latest updates

• The 2024 Prohibited List has been approved and comes into force on 1 January 2024.
• Tramadol will be banned in-competition from 1 January 2024. 
• Blood plasma donation will be permitted in registered collection centres from 1 January 2024.

Read about tramadol changes

Even common medications can contain prohibited substances. That's why we encourage you to check every medication on Global DRO before using it. As an athlete, you're 100% responsible for anything found in your sample - so it's always best to play it safe.

Get info on medications and Global DRO.

Questions about common medications?

You can find information about common medications like asthma inhalers, cold and flu treatments or pain medication on our common medications page.

Check common medications