March 1/19 5:17 am - CCES Reminds of Tramadol Ban for Canadian Events

Posted by Editor on 03/1/19
 

The UCI announced on January 15th that the pain management drug Tramadol would be banned in sanctioned events as of March 1, 2019, although it is not on the WADA proscribed list [see UCI Tramadol Ban to Begin March 1st]. The ban is under effect for UCI events, such as World Cups, WorldTour events, Tour de Beauce, etc.  The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) will continue to administer anti-doping testing, with tests for tramadol being done at the request of the UCI, since it will not be automatically tested for. So, for example, National championships testing will not automatically include tramadol; only if the UCI requests it.

The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) has issued a reminder that this ban will take effect in Canada:

The Union Cycliste International (UCI) announced last month that tramadol will be banned in UCI-sanctioned competitions as of March 1, 2019. The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) advises Canadian cycling athletes who compete in UCI events that they should contact the UCI well in advance if they are using tramadol.

The rules for events not sanctioned by the UCI remain unchanged. The Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP) continues to follow the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Prohibited List, which allows the use of tramadol.

The UCI explains that health and safety are the main drivers behind the decision, stating, "The ban is aimed at preserving the rider's health and safety in light of the side-effects of tramadol, across all disciplines and categories."
The UCI release lists some of the side effects, testing methods, and penalties associated with tramadol.

Tramadol is found in many over-the-counter medications in Canada, and is used primarily for pain management. It is identified in the product name for many generic drug manufacturers or may be additionally listed as an ingredient in other products such as Tridural, Tramacet and Ralivia.

Once again, the CCES encourages Canadian athletes to contact the UCI directly if they require further information.

Note: See our report on January 16th for more information: UCI Tramadol Ban to Begin March 1st