The International Olympic Committee and Doping Status of Antiasthma Drugs

Abstract

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) allows unrestricted use of xanthine derivatives and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as cromolyn sodium, in athletic competition. Other drugs, such as corticosteroids and selected beta-adrenergic agonists, are allowed in inhaler form with restrictions. Amateur athletes with exercise-induced asthma (EIA) and their physicians, however, must be especially vigilant for the use of antiasthma drugs that are prohibited in athletic competitions. Several factors make this process increasingly difficult. The doping status of some antiasthma drugs changes with evaluation of new information and can also vary between organizations (e.g., the IOC and the National Collegiate Amateur Association) that govern different amateur athletic competitions. Athletes are not always aware that many over-the-counter antiasthma drugs contain prohibited stimulants, such as ephedrine or epinephrine. Other antiasthma agents, such as salbutamol (albuterol) or clenbuterol, are believed by some athletes to be ergogenic and, therefore, have significant potential for abuse. Knowledge of current policies can help ensure that EIA can be treated properly without use of drugs that may disqualify participants from athletic competition.