Du contrôle anti-dopage aux contrôles des médications chez le cheval : l'approche européenne

Abstract

Antidoping control is undergoing major changes on a European level. Equestrian authorities now recognize two types of molecules (xenobiotics) subject to two different control strategies. The most sensitive techniques will be used to track the slightest presence (exposure) of substances prohibited in sports (anabolic steroids, amphetamines…). On the other hand, for molecules used legitimately as medication, such as anti-inflammatories, only concentrations which are above a value able to compromise the competition fairness will be reported i. e. residual plasma and urinary levels of these substances will be interpreted in terms of their biological activity. Consequently, assay techniques are or will be chosen to guarantee a lack of effect rather than the evidence of exposure. These changes in antidoping control concerning medications control required the development of a systematic approach, to define effective plasma levels as well as plasma and urinary concentrations considered as devoid of biological activity. This approach is part of a more general concept of risk analysis, which includes two stages : scientific risk evaluation to define critical drug levels, and risk management by the Authorities that set the final values to implement.