As an athlete, you should be aware of the classes of substances that are on the Prohibited List. Banned substances and methods are placed into categories based on their effect or application (e.g., steroids (anabolic agents), stimulants, gene doping) and can be prohibited in-competition, out-of-competition, or in particular sports. 

You should be careful to check the status of any medication you consume to ensure that it won’t result in a positive test

The CCES offers a number of ways to find out if your medications and substances are prohibited in sport.

Do it yourself:

• The Global DRO is an online database (www.globaldro.com) that allows athletes to quickly and accurately find information on the status of pharmaceutical products over-the-counter medicinal products.

• The CCES publishes a Substance Classification Booklet that is based on the current WADA Prohibited List. This booklet provides an overview of prohibited substances and methods, including their Canadian brand names. It also identifies non-prohibited alternatives to prohibited substances in the event that an athlete needs to take a medication.

• We've put together some lists of medications for common ailments to help you decide what is safe to take. Print off our listings for cough and cold medications or anti-asthma medications and take them to the drugstore.

Ask us:

• Complete our online substance inquiry form.

• Contact the CCES by email at substances@cces.ca.

• Call us! You can reach us toll-free from anywhere in North America at 1-800-672-7775.

Athletes who need to take a banned medication for a legitimate medical reason can apply for a medical exemption.