The World Anti-Doping Agency has issued an updated List of Prohibited Substances and Methods that will come into force on 1 January 2024.

Among the changes, the use of tramadol as a painkiller is now prohibited in-competition. The amendment was made after research studies, funded by WADA, confirmed its potential to enhance sports performance.

The recommended ‘washout period’ for tramadol will be communicated by WADA before 1 January 2024. The ‘washout period’ refers to the time from the last administered dose to the time of the start of the in-competition period.

Athletes and their entourages should familiarize themselves with all of the changes to the Prohibited List. Click here for a summary of the major modifications.

If a medication you use is on the list, you need to apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) before using it. Find out more about TUEs in our newest video.

An average of one to five TUEs are issued in biathlon each year (for various types of medication for long-term or short-term usage), with no abuse of TUEs in the sport detected to date.

Always remember: if you need to use a medication for your medical treatment, you must make sure to check the Prohibited List before using it!