Improper use of ADHD medication has and can, result in sporting bans, due to the rules attached to their use.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not a barrier to participation or performance in sport.
But athletes and their support networks must understand their responsibilities when it comes to use of ADHD medication in sport.
ADHD diagnoses are increasing and so use of ADHD medication in sport is rising too.
It’s important to know ADHD medication rules in sport because improper use can result in sporting bans.
Why are some ADHD medications banned in sport?
Medications can be prescribed to help people diagnosed with ADHD to manage their symptoms and therefore compete on a level playing field.
Medications commonly used include those from the class of medication known as stimulants.
Stimulant medications can provide performance-enhancing benefits such as:
- improved strength
- power
- endurance as well as;
- increasing focus and attention span.
This is why substances found in many ADHD medications are banned in-competition.
They are on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Prohibited List as S6 Stimulants.
This includes:
- Methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin, Concerta)
- Dexamphetamine
- Lisdexamphetamine (e.g. Vyvanse).
Know the risks in sport
Remember, if it’s not prescribed for you, it’s not for you. Your meds, your body only.
Sport risks
ADHD stimulant medications are banned in-competition, although athletes with diagnosed ADHD can seek permission for use.
This is known as a Therapeutic Use Exemption or TUE.
Improper use of ADHD stimulant medication can result in a ban from sport and/or other sanctions.
Athletes and other people in sport must also avoid must sharing prescribed medication or falsifying prescriptions.
This can breach anti-doping rules and result in a ban from sport.
Health risks
ADHD medications are prescription-only.
This is because they pose a high risk of misuse, abuse and dependence.
Responsible use needs to be monitored by medical professionals because of health risks such as:
- increased heart rate
- increased blood pressure
- stress on the cardiac system.
How to apply to use ADHD medication in sport
Athletes with diagnosed ADHD, can seek official permission to use prescribed stimulant medication, known as a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE).
Follow these steps:
-
Talk sport with your doctor:
- Let them know you're an athlete and get them to check the status of the medication using Global DRO
- Individuals should also do their own checks on Global DRO
-
Check if you need a TUE before taking the medication:
- Download the Sport Integrity App and use the Therapeutic Use Exemption Checker
- Based on your current level of sport, it will advise if you need to apply for a TUE in advance, or you just need to maintain medical records and apply for a planned retroactive TUE if required by SIA
- You can also check your medications on the App
-
Prepare a TUE application, if needed:
- The Sport Integrity App will link you to a checklist of information required for your TUE application specific to ADHD
- More information at: ADHD support for TUE
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