Substances: Diuretics

Diuretics increase the amount of urine produced by the body. In a medical setting diuretics are used to treat patients suffering from renal dysfunction.

Some athletes may use diuretics illegally to assist them to fall within the required weight categories in sports such as horse racing, judo, weightlifting and rowing.

Diuretics may also be used by some athletes to dilute their urine in an attempt to avoid detection of anabolic agents.

Side effects

The use of diuretics may induce dehydration which may cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, loss of coordination and balance, cramps and kidney and heart failure.

Status in Sport

Under the World Anti-Doping Code 2007 Prohibited List (effective 01/01/07) diuretics are prohibited both in and out of competition in all sports as masking agents.

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This page last updated Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Copyright © 2008, Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA)