The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has recently released the 2024 Prohibited List (the List), which details the substances and methods that are banned within sport. Broken down into several categories, the List identifies which substances and methods are prohibited at all times, in-competition only, and within specific sports.
Following an extensive consultation period by WADA, the 2024 List was published on 27 September 2023. This gives athletes and their support personnel sufficient time to make themselves aware of the changes, review any medications they use, and apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) if required before the updated List comes into effect on 01 January 2024.
The below sections summarise the major changes to the List for 2024. Please consult the 2024 Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes document for the full list of modifications.
Tramadol
Tramadol will be prohibited in-competition under Section 7 Narcotics.
UKAD has produced specific guidelines and resources for a number of common medical conditions requiring a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) which also includes tramadol. Click here to find out more.
Removal of plasmapheresis as a prohibited method
The donation of plasma or plasma components by plasmapheresis will no longer be prohibited when performed in a registered collection centre.
Tramazoline
Tramazoline has been added to Section 6 Stimulants as an example of an imidazoline derivative which is permitted when administered by dermatological, nasal, ophthalmic, or otic routes. It is prohibited by any other route of administration.
Additional Examples
Several new examples of prohibited substances have been added to various categories of the List. Please note that these are not new substances being added to the 2024 List for the first time but are additional examples of substances that are already prohibited.
Monitoring Program
WADA has also published the 2024 Monitoring Program which lists substances (not on the Prohibited List) that are currently being monitored for potential misuse by WADA.