BS2014 Topic 11 – Drugs in Sport

Vocabulary definitions focused on key terminology, substances, and regulatory processes regarding drugs and doping in sport.

Doping

The use of prohibited substances or methods to enhance athletic performance.

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)

The international organisation responsible for coordinating anti-doping policies and regulations.

WADA Prohibited List

The annual list of substances and methods banned in sport.

Performance-enhancing drug (PED)

A substance used to improve athletic performance beyond normal physiological limits.

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS)

Synthetic derivatives of testosterone used to increase muscle mass and strength.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone that stimulates red blood cell production and increases oxygen-carrying capacity.

Blood doping

Increasing red blood cell mass to enhance oxygen delivery and endurance performance.

Human Growth Hormone (hGH)

A hormone that promotes growth, tissue repair and protein synthesis.

Stimulants

Drugs that increase alertness, reduce fatigue and stimulate the central nervous system.

Beta-blockers

Drugs that reduce heart rate and tremor, improving performance in precision sports.

Diuretics

Drugs that increase urine production and may be used to mask other prohibited substances.

Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE)

Official permission allowing an athlete to use a prohibited substance for a legitimate medical condition.

Drug testing

The process of analysing biological samples to detect prohibited substances or methods.

In-competition testing

Drug testing conducted during a competition period.

Out-of-competition testing

Drug testing conducted outside of competition without prior notice.

Biological passport

An individual record of biological markers used to detect doping over time.

Gene doping

The non-therapeutic use of genes or genetic techniques to enhance athletic performance.

Strict liability

The principle that athletes are responsible for any prohibited substance found in their body regardless of intent.

Anti-doping rule violation (ADRV)

Any breach of the World Anti-Doping Code, including use, possession or trafficking of prohibited substances or methods.

Adverse analytical finding (AAF)

A laboratory report identifying a prohibited substance or marker in an athlete's sample.