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Substances: Narcotics

Narcotics are commonly known as painkillers because they can mask the effects of pain.  Narcotics may also produce sensations of euphoria, invincibility and illusions of athletic prowess beyond athletic ability.

Examples of narcotics include but are not limited to: diamorphine (heroin), morphine, methadine, pethidine.

Side effects

Narcotics may be used illegally to stop the pain resulting from an injury.  However this can be dangerous as these substances merely disguise the pain. An athlete who continues to train or compete with an injury risks further damage.

Narcotics also have other adverse effects such as loss of balance and coordination, decreased ability to concentrate, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression and constipation.  Prolonged use may also produce physical dependence, leading to addiction.

Status in sport

Narcotics are prohibited in competition only under the World Anti-Doping Code 2007 Prohibited List (effective from 01/01/07).

 

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