Latest ISU Doping Rules – 2021
The ISU have published their recently adopted doping rules that come into effect on 1 January 2021.
This was compiled in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and replaces any previous publications.
It is important to note that as an ISU member country, SAFSA and its athletes are subject to these doping rules in addition to the local SAIDSA (drugfreesport.org.za) rules and it is important to know what is required and prohibited.
Who can help me understand this list?
Because the list refers to the scientific name of substances and to other medical terms, it may be difficult to understand for an average reader. You should consult with competent health professionals (physicians, pharmacists) to help determine whether the ingredients of a certain product might be on the List. The South African Institute for Drug Free Sport (SAIDSA – drugfreesport.org.za) can also assist with this.
Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE)
Skaters may experience a medical condition that requires the use of medication. You should know that medicines a skater may be required to take to treat a condition, including both over-the-counter products and medication from a doctor, could fall under the list.
However, by applying and obtaining a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE), a skater is able to obtain the necessary treatment. TUEs are granted for a specific medication with a defined dosage. They are also granted for a specific period of time and therefore have an expiry date.
How to know if a TUE is needed and how to get it
- As a skater, inform your doctor (or other) that you are subject to doping control.
- If medication is recommended, check the status of medication.
- If it is a prohibited substance/method, discuss alternatives with professionals.
- If there is no non-prohibited alternative:- Your application must be made as soon as possible and no later than 30 days before taking part in an Event (for emergency cases, a TUE may be approved retroactively).
For International skaters, please ensure that you communicate any medication usage to the National Secretary as soon as you have taken up a selection. for more information about the process used by the ISU, please see the following: www.isu.org/clean-sport/anti-doping
If a skater is ever in doubt or is on any form of chronic medication, it is important to check with their doctor and also the sports governing body to ensure that they do not inadvertantly fall foul of doping rules.
Remember that ignorance is no excuse and penalties are applied no matter the circumstances surrounding use.
It is better to be safe, rather than regret it later.
To see the ISU communication, please click HERE
If you have any queries, please contact your Provincial Committee who can assist you with following the correct channels to ensure that you are not contravening any rules.
