Intravenous Infusions and Injections regarding PRP & Plasmapheresis Copy

Intravenous (IV) infusions have been included on the WADA List of Prohibited Substances and Methods under section M2. Prohibited Methods, Chemical and Physical Manipulation since 2005. They are prohibited both in- and out-of-competition.

The current wording in the Prohibited List states that “Intravenous infusions and/or injections of more than a total of 100 mL per 12-hour period are prohibited except for those legitimately received in the course of hospital treatments, surgical procedures or clinical diagnostic investigations.

• Even though Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) contains some growth factors, WADA has clarified that PRP is not prohibited. Be aware, though, that individual growth factors are still prohibited when given separately as purified substances as described in S.2.5. 
• Stem cell injections may or may not be prohibited, depending on how the product is manipulated or modified for use. Contact USADA for specific guidance. 
• Hemodialysis is prohibited under M1.1, as blood is taken out from the patient (in a closed circuit) and reintroduced into the circulatory system. An athlete needing this treatment requires a TUE. 
• Whole blood donation, when no blood is returned to the donor, is permitted. 
• Donating plasma or plasmapheresis (when the rest of the blood components are reinjected into the donor) is prohibited for the donor because the donor’s own red blood cells and other blood components are being reintroduced into the circulatory system after the plasma has been separated. Please see the WADA FAQ.