Injections in Athletes

 

Cortisone (corticosteroid) injections, for individuals subject to drug testing under WADA (most professional and Olympic sports), are banned unless the athlete seeks a theraputic use exemption (TUE), including supporting documents from a physician.

Intra-articular Hyaluronan injections are not prohibited.

The directives from the UK Sport Drug Information Database states:

WADA Regulations for Corticosteroids:

In Competition Prohibited:
S9 Glucocorticosteroids, systemic: Glucocorticosteroids are prohibited when administered orally, rectally, or by intravenous or intramuscular injection. Their use requires a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) approval.
To find out if you are required to submit a TUE application and where to send it Click Here
Out of Competition

Not Prohibited: Not tested for Out-of-Competition: These substances are not tested for `Out-of-Competition'.
Please be aware that if it is found in an Athlete's system during competition (even if the substance(s) was taken prior to the competition) this will constitute a doping violation.

Download a TUE form from UK Sport here (PDF)

WADA Regulations for Hyaluronans (Hyaluronic Acid):

In Competition Not Prohibited: There are no WADA restrictions on the use of this substance or product in sport.
Out of Competition Not Prohibited: There are no WADA restrictions on the use of this substance or product in sport.

WADA Regulations for Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP):

From 2010 PRP will be prohibited when administered by intramuscular route, but other routes of administration will require a declaration of use in compliance with the International Standard for TUEs. See more at UK Sport News


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