TUE
Some athletes may have illnesses or conditions that require them to take particular medications that may be prohibited in sport. Article 4.4 details all rules and regulations regarding Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs). TUEs are granted by an Anti-Doping Organization (such as the IPC) and provides approval to an athlete to take a needed medication to treat an illness or condition that is prohibited in sport under the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC) Prohibited List (Prohibited List).
In sport, the term ‘strict liability’ in anti-doping matters essentially means that it is the athlete’s responsibility to ensure that anything he/she puts into his/her body is not in breach of anti-doping regulations. Therefore, athletes taking medication must ensure that the substance in the medication is not listed on the Prohibited List or in breach of the relevant International Federations (IF) anti-doping rules.
Please note that athletes are advised to treat the matter of TUEs very seriously and in all instances seek expert advice. Using a prohibited substance or prohibited method before a TUE Approval is similar to using a prohibited substance or method without authorization and this could constitute an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV).
Please find below information that may be able to assist an athlete and/or NPC in understanding the current rules surrounding the Therapeutic Use Exemption Process.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has a variety of information available on their website, specifically for athletes.
IPC Position Statement on the Use of Catheters
The IPC considers the catheter used by an athlete with need for self-catheterization as ‘personal equipment’. Athletes might react adversely to different brands and models, potentially leading to infections and/or allergic reactions. Athletes therefore mainly use one particular type of catheter.
Within this perspective, and giving absolute priority to the athlete’s health, the catheter used is the responsibility of the athlete.
In particular cases, e.g. Paralympic Games, the Doping Control Stations may be equipped with a number of sealed, sterile catheters, however this would never include all brands, sizes and/or materials. This must be regarded as a complimentary service offered to the athletes in such a particular competition.
For more information, please contact:
IPC Anti-Doping Administration Manager
Adenauerallee 212 - 214
53113 Bonn, Germany
Phone: +49-228-2097-130
Fax: +49-228-2097-209
E-mail:
antidoping@paralympic.org
