Anti-doping

This section includes information on the anti-doping work that is carried out in Scotland and the UK, including where to check the status of medications you wish to use in order to remain compliant with anti-doping rules. scottishathletics cannot take responsibility for any information supplied on any external links. 

UK Anti-Doping (UKAD)

UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) is the National Anti-Doping Organisation of the UK and is responsible for anti-doping in the UK. Its website includes education resources and provides information on anti-doping rules and procedures. It includes a page specifically on supplements and nutrition.

UK Athletics

The anti-doping section of the UK Athletics website provides useful information, including full copies of the UKA anti-doping rules.

Global Drug Reference Online

Global DRO allows you to check the status of registered medication, both prescribed and over-the-counter. Athletes of all levels should check any medication before they use it. Athletes should also advise their GP that they may be subject to testing so that this can be considered when considering any treatment. Please note that even if prescribed by a doctor, you should still check you medication on Global DRO and contact UKA immediately should the status of your medication be “Prohibited” or “Declaration required”.

If a medication is prohibited it doesn’t necessarily mean that you cannot use it but you must notify the correct authorities through the Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) procedures. UKA can advise you on your TUE requirements.

Informed Sport

The Informed Sport programme provides further information about supplements for athletes and coaches. The manufacture of supplements is not controlled in the way that the manufacture of medicines is and extreme caution should be exercised before using a supplement. Athletes should consider their diet before using supplements and should realise that they are responsible for all substances that they ingest.

Other Important Information

Please note that certain athletes are selected for the National Registered Testing Pool (NRTP) which means that they need to provide whereabouts information for out-of-competition testing. If you are selected for the NRTP you will be advised individually and be given support with complying with the responsibilities.

It is important to remember, however, that any athlete – even those who are not members of the NRTP – can be tested at any time, both in and out of competition, and if you are notified that you are required to provide a sample you must comply. Refusal to provide a sample when requested is an anti-doping rule violation with a standard sanction of a two-year ban.