As a GP with an interest in sports medicine I think the major risk here is
the situation where athletes unwittingly take banned substances (which may
indeed be performance enhancing). This not only includes those items
prescribed for common problems, but also those preparations bought over the
counter, such as cold remedies. Both athlete and GP need to know that
whereas injectable steroids are allowed (so long as they are declared) for
joint problems, a course of oral steroids for asthma would not, and a wary
lookout needs to be kept for all OTC products containing ephedrine (always
banned).
Athletes who have achieved a certain proficiency in their sport, and who are
likely to compete under national or international regulations need to take
responsibility for this aspect of their care. They need to keep their GP
fully informed of their activities, so that any prescribing descisions may
be made with the regulations firmly in mind.
Robert
Dr Robert Treharne Jones
GP and Trainer, Walnut Lodge, Torquay
-----Original Message-----
>To what extent do you think athletes themselves are responsible for whether
>or not they use performance-enhancing substances
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