The Prohibited List is an international standard identifying substances and methods prohibited in sport. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is responsible for the preparation and publication of the List, which it updates every year effective January 1.

What is the Prohibited List?

  • Is separated into categories (e.g., steroids, stimulants, gene doping).
  • Identifies which substances are prohibited in-competition and/or out-of-competition.
  • Identifies which substances are prohibited in particular sports.
  • Distinguishes between specified and non-specified substances.

How often is the Prohibited List updated?

  • The Prohibited List is generally updated once every year. The revisions are published in October and come into effect the first of January.
  • Changes and additions can be made at any time throughout the year.
  • Guidelines for the annual review and publication of the Prohibited List are outlined in the World Anti-Doping Code.

How does a substance or method make the Prohibited List?

For a substance or method to be added to the prohibited list it must meet at least two out of three of the following criteria:

  • There is evidence that the substance or method has the potential to enhance, or does  enhance performance,
  • There is evidence that the substance or method represents an actual or potential health risk to the athlete, and
  • WADA has determined that use of the substance or method violates the spirit of sport.

Read about the banned substances and methods on the Prohibited List.