Therapeutic Use Exemption - 2012 Procedures

Antidoping

Last Updated on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:11

To whom does this apply? 

Athletes who have been identified as included in FINA’s Registered Testing Pool and athletes who participate in FINA competitions, may only obtain therapeutic use exemptions in accordance with the rules of FINA.

Please note that the use of oral or intravenous glucocorticosteroids in the emergency treatment of asthma requires a TUE Application Form.


FINA would like to remind competitors, physicians, therapists, coaches, administrators and other members of the FINA Family about the change in status of the substance Formoterol which is commonly used to treat asthma.

One of the most significant changes to the 2012 List is the removal of formoterol from ‘Section 3 Beta-2 Agonists’ of the List when taken by inhalation at therapeutic dosages.

Taking into account recent research results and concerns expressed by members of the sports community, inhaled Formoterol to a maximum dose of 36 micrograms over 24 hours is no longer prohibited. This is the equivalent of a 48 mcg/24 hours of a metered dose (Medical Information to Support the Decisions of TUECs page 5 [iv] + Annex 1 on page 10).

The List prohibits the administration of all beta-2 agonists except salbutamol (maximum 1600 micrograms over 24 hours), salmeterol when taken by inhalation, and now formoterol (maximum 36 micrograms taken over 24 hours).

NB: All other beta-2 agonists (e.g. terbutaline) are still prohibited when administered by any route, including inhalation, and their use will require a TUE application supported by the appropriate medical information and the results of appropriate pulmonary function tests. In addition, asthmatic athletes selected for doping control must remember to declare the use of all prescribed medications (e.g., asthma medications and glucocorticosteroids) and all non-prescribed medications and supplements taken in the last 10 days. (see chart below)


Asthma Medication TUE REQUIRED
Advair (flucticasone and salmeterol) NO
Bricanyl (terbutaline) YES
Formoterol NO
Salbutamol (albuterol)* NO
Salmeterol NO
Symbicort (budesonide and formoterol) NO
*when administered by inhalation, and
below a urinary threshold of 1000ng/mL


Note about Pseudoephedrine

WADA has reintroduced pseudoephedrine to the Prohibited List effective January 1, 2010. Pseudoephedrine, a stimulant commonly found in over-the-counter cough and cold medications, is prohibited in-competition only.
Athletes are advised to consider the use of alternative permitted medications for the treatment of coughs, colds and upper respiratory infections, in consultation with a physician.

The Therapeutic Use Exemption Application Form 2012 in available to download here: TUE Form 2012alt


For further information please contact the FINA Office, your national federation or consult the following:


•    World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List 

•    WADA Medical Guidelines for Asthma

•    WADA International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions