Firstly, athletes should not assume that the medical professional who prescribes medication has a full understanding of anti-doping related matters in their sport. It does not make a medication ‘ legal’ in sport just because it is prescribed by a medical professional for a medical condition.

Athletes must check to see whether or not medication is included in the current Prohibited List which can be found on the the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) website.

The IPC strongly advises athletes, National Paralympic Committee (NPCs), coaches and administrators to check all substances with a medical professional with suitable experience in anti-doping related matters.

There are National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs) that have a variety of useful resources on the internet where a search can be made on the status of a substance in a particular sport. By entering the substance name, the athlete will be informed whether a substance is permitted or prohibited in- or out-of-competition.

For a list of NADOs, please consult the WADA Website.