Specified Substances and the WADA Monitoring Program Copy

What are specified substances?

A specified substance is a substance which allows, under defined conditions, for a reduction of a sanction when an athlete tests positive for that particular substance. All prohibited substances are specified substances, except for those in the classes of anabolic agents, growth factors, hormones and their modulators, and certain stimulants. Prohibited methods are not included in specified substances.

What is the WADA Monitoring Program?

The WADA Monitoring Program monitors the trends of misuse of specific substances which may have a performance enhancing effect or endanger the health of athletes. Substances on the monitoring list are not prohibited. Athletes may use these substances. Depending on the misuse of the substance, it could appear on future Prohibited List updates.

As per Article 4.2.2 of the World Anti-Doping Code, “for purposes of the application of Article 10, all Prohibited Substances shall be Specified Substances except as identified on the Prohibited List. No Prohibited Method shall be a Specified Method unless it is specifically identified as a Specified Method on the Prohibited List”. As per the comment to the article, “the Specified Substances and Methods identified in Article 4.2.2 should not in any way be considered less important or less dangerous than other doping substances or methods. Rather, they are simply substances and methods which are more likely to have been consumed or used by an Athlete for a purpose other than the enhancement of sport performance.” 

The WADA Monitoring Program notes trends in the use/misuse or specific substances (or methods) which may have a performance enhancing effect or endanger the health of athletes. Substances/methods on the monitoring list are not prohibited; however depending on the trends of use and continued scientific research they could appear on future Prohibited List updates. Please use the link below to assess the monitoring status of certain medications/methods: 
https://www.wada-ama.org/en/resources/science-medicine/monitoring-program