THERAPEUTIC USE EXEMPTIONS
The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) is responsible for administering Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) for International Level athletes, as defined under World Athletics Anti-Doping rules.
AS AN ATHLETE, IT IS IMPORTANT YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT A THERAPEUTIC USE EXEMPTION IS, AND WHEN AND HOW TO APPLY FOR ONE.
WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA FOR GRANTING A TUE?
All of the four following criteria must be met:
- The athlete has a clear diagnosed medical condition, which requires treatment using a prohibited substance or method;
- The therapeutic use of the substance will not, on the balance of probabilities, produce significant enhancement of performance beyond the athlete’s normal state of health;
- The prohibited substance or method is an indicated treatment for the medical condition, and there is no reasonable permitted therapeutic alternative;
- The necessity to use that substance or method is not the consequence of the prior use (without a TUE), of a substance or method which was prohibited at the time of use.
For more details please refer to the WADA International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE) Article 4.2.
DO I NEED A TUE ?
Athletes who are subject to anti-doping rules would need a TUE, in case they have to take a prohibited substance or use a prohibited method for therapeutic purposes.
First, check if the required medication or method you intend to take or use is prohibited as per the WADA Prohibited List.
You may also use a "check your medication" online tool. Alternatively, ask your National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) if they recommended an online tool or have other ways of checking.
You have a responsibility to inform your physician(s) that you are an athlete bound to anti-doping rules. You and your physician(s) should check the Prohibited List for the substance/method you are prescribed. If the substance/method is prohibited, discuss non-prohibited alternatives, if there are none, apply for a TUE.
Remember Athletes have the ultimate responsibility. Contact your NADO or the AIU if you have doubts or are having difficulties.
TUEs – KNOW THE PROCESS
Learn more about the process that is followed while handling a TUE request.