Prescribing medication for athletes : guidelines for general practitioners

Abstract

The number of persons taking part in organized sports in our islands is increasing every year. Many of these athletes and the events that they participate in are subject to doping control tests by the National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) or the national federation or association of their particular sport. A small number of these tests record a prohibited substance present in the athlete’s sample, which may have serious consequences on the sporting career of the athlete. Many athletes consult their general practitioner (GP) or team doctor regularly for advice when they develop a medical condition. This article is intended to provide the GP with background information regarding drugs that may be used safely and without consequences for the athlete, the procedure to follow when the athlete needs to be treated with drugs which are prohibited to athletes, and the pitfalls of accidental doping.