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Substances: Local anaesthetics

Local anaesthetics are substances that mask the effects of pain. Athletes use local anaesthetics to try to mask pain so they can continue to participate in competition or training.

Local anaesthetics come in many forms including creams, ointments, eye drops and injections.

Side effects

In most cases, athletes who use local anaesthetics run the risk of further aggravating their injury.

Status in Sport

Local anaesthetics are permitted under the World Anti-Doping Code 2007 Prohibited List (in effect 01/01/07).

In general locally applied anaesthetics are permitted, however injectable local anaesthetics are only permitted under the following conditions:

• bupivacaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine, procaine and related substances can be used but not cocaine
• vasoconstrictor agents such as adrenaline may be used, in conjunction with local anaesthetics
• only local or intra-articular injections may be administered
• only when medically justified.

Some sports federations may require notification of the use of local anaesthetics. Athletes should check the rules of their sport regarding notification requirements.

 

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