Category: Education

The opioid epidemic in the United States and around the world is not a secret, but how much do people really know about the abuse of prescription drugs in sport? Are they aware of how often seemingly innocent prescriptions for oxycodone or tramadol can turn into full-blown addictions? That the addiction can lead to an overdose and death? That it can happen to anyone, even athletes? Especially athletes?

As a part of competitive sport, many elite athletes must comply with the World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List, strict global standards that prohibit the use of certain substances and methods that can enhance performance and cause negative health effects. The WADA Prohibited List helps ensure that athletes can compete on a level playing field anywhere in the world.
To help athletes comply with the List, USADA provides a wide range of resources, including substance profiles, which include important information on high-risk substances like clomiphene.

Kratom is a plant that produces compounds that have opioid-like effects. While not currently prohibited, athletes are advised to steer clear for health reasons.