The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which governs drug testing in the Olympics and sets the standard for anti-doping guidelines in more than 600 sports leagues around the globe, released their updated list of banned substances for 2018.
One entry underwent a major renovation from last year’s edition. Under the Cannabinoids section of the list, the WADA spells out that both natural and synthetic cannabinoids are strictly prohibited from being used in competition — except for CBD.
“WADA is pleased to publish the 2018 Prohibited List,” said WADA President, Sir Craig Reedie. “Updated annually, the List is released three months ahead of taking effect so that all stakeholders — in particular athletes and their entourage — have sufficient time to familiarize themselves with the document and its modifications,” Reedie continued. “It is vital that all athletes and entourage take the necessary time to consult the List; and that, they contact their respective anti-doping organizations (ADOs) if they have any doubts as to the status of a substance or method.”
This marks a major shift in philosophy for the anti-doping organization, and it will be interesting to watch how many of the organizations that adopt WADA’s rules mirror this new policy on the non-psychoactive component of cannabis found in many products.
In the WADA’s summary of changes made to the banned substances list, the agency states, “Cannabidiol is no longer prohibited … However, cannabidiol extracted from cannabis plants may also contain varying concentrations of THC, which remains a prohibited substance.”
credit:marijuana.com