The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has published the 2018 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods** **(“List”) along with the 2018 Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes. The List, which was approved by WADA’s Executive Committee on 24 September 2017, will come into force on 1 January 2018.

The List designates what substances and methods are prohibited, both in and out of competition, and which substances are banned in particular sports.

“WADA is pleased to publish the 2018 Prohibited List,” said WADA President Sir Craig Reedie. He added that it was “vital that all athletes and their entourage take the necessary time to consult the List, and that, they contact their respective anti-doping organisations (ADOs) if they have any doubts as to the status of a substance or method”.

The List’s annual revision process is led by WADA. For a substance or method to be added to the List, it must be determined that it meets 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 athletes; or, 3. it violates the spirit of sport.

It should be noted that athletes who have a legitimate medical reason for using a prohibited substance or method that is on the List may be accommodated if they meet the criteria outlined in the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE). The TUE process has overwhelming acceptance from athletes, physicians and anti-doping stakeholders worldwide.

To view the changes made to the 2018 Prohibited List as compared to the 2017 version, please see the 2018 Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes.