Therapeutic Use Exemption
TUEs
Some athletes may have illnesses or conditions that require them to take medications or undergo procedures. If the medication or method an athlete is required to use to treat an illness or condition is prohibited as per the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Prohibited List a TUE may give that athlete the authorization to use that substance or method while competing without invoking an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) and applicable sanction. Applications for TUEs are evaluated by a panel of physicians, the TUE Committee (TUEC)..
What are the criteria for granting a TUE?
- 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 a consequence of the prior use (without a TUE), of a substance or method which was prohibited at the time of use.
Who should apply for a TUE?
Athletes who are subject to anti-doping rules would need a TUE to take a prohibited substance or use a prohibited method should verify with AFRICA ZONE VI RADO to know to whom you need to apply and if you can apply retroactively.
First, check if the required medication or method you intend to take, or use is prohibited as per the WADA Prohibited List.
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 AFRICA ZONE VI RADO if you are having difficulties.
Then, contact AFRICA ZONE VI RADO to determine your competition level and TUE application requirements.
Who is considered a Level Athlete?
Athletes are the focal point of WADA’s efforts to foster doping-free sport.WADA strives to establish a level playing field, to allow them to concentrate on the pursuit of athletic excellence through their natural talent – “playing true”.
WADA works to ensure that athletes benefit from the same anti-doping protocols and protections, no matter the nationality, the sport, or the country where tested. The ultimate goal is safe and fair competition worldwide.
Can I get a retroactive TUE?
You may only apply retroactively for a TUE to PRADO if:
- You required emergency or urgent treatment of a medical condition.
- There was insufficient time, opportunity or other exceptional circumstances that prevented you from submitting the TUE application, or having it evaluated, before getting tested.
- You are a lower level athlete who is not under the jurisdiction of an IF or PRADO and were tested.
- You tested positive after using a substance Out-of-Competition that is only prohibited In-Competition (for example glucocorticoids).
In rare and exceptional circumstances and notwithstanding any other provision in the ISTUE, you may apply for and be granted retroactive approval for a therapeutic use of a prohibited substance or method, if considering the purpose of the Code, it would be manifestly unfair not to grant a retroactive TUE.
This unique retroactive TUE will only be granted with the prior approval of WADA (and WADA may in its absolute discretion agree with or reject with the AFRICA ZONE VI RADO’s decision).
Application process to obtain a TUE
There are two ways you can request your TUE. The recommended is through the ADAMS System, using your username and password. If you do not have them, you can request them at zonevi@africa.rado-orad.org
The second way is through a form, following the instructions below:
Download the general TUE form by clicking on the button.
Ask your doctor to fill the TUE form, in Legible Capital Letters or typed, and send it along with your medical record to zonevi@africa.rado-orad.org
Once a TUE is requested, a panel of experts selected by the AFRICA ZONE VI RADO will review your request and grant the TUE if:
- Your health could be significantly affected if you do not take this substance.
- The substance does not increase your performance and only allows you to regain your health.
- There are no other alternative treatments available.
