Tramadol to prohibited in-competition from 1st January 2024
This is an important reminder to all athletes regarding the anti-doping status of tramadol.
In September 2022, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced that tramadol will be included on the 2024 WADA List of Prohibited Substances and Methods. This early announcement was made to allow all stakeholders in sport to prepare for this change.
- Any athlete tested in-competition from 1 January 2024 by UKAD or another Testing Agency, may face the prospect of a ban from sport if tramadol is found in their sample
- Athletes who may be using tramadol are reminded to speak to their doctor about seeking alternative pain medication that is permitted in sport
Tramadol misuse is of concern because of the risks of physical dependence, opiate addiction, and overdose. It has led to it being a controlled drug in many countries. Research studies funded by WADA have also confirmed the potential for tramadol to enhance sports performance.
Any athlete tested in-competition from 1 January 2024 by UKAD or another Testing Agency, may face the prospect of a ban from sport if tramadol is found in their sample.
UKAD Athlete Commission Member, Christian Day, said “We need to be clear to all athletes that tramadol is a banned substance from next year and as a tested athlete you are responsible for what is found in your body. So act now and speak with your doctor about the options available to you.”
UKAD would like to remind all athletes and athlete support personnel to view the latest updates to the Prohibited List for 2024, which were published by WADA on 27 September 2023.
For more information you can visit British Wrestling’s Anti-Doping section here
