PEDS

PEDs, short for performance-enhancing drugs, are chemical substances used to improve athletic performance. They include both drugs illegal in sport and medicines prescribed for legitimate medical conditions. In competitive sport, the term "doping" describes the use or attempted use of such substances to gain an advantage. Governing bodies generally ban PEDs and require testing to deter use, with some exceptions for therapeutic use.

Major classes of PEDs are anabolic agents (such as anabolic steroids and related compounds that promote muscle growth), peptide hormones and growth factors (for example, erythropoietin and human growth hormone), and other hormones that modulate metabolism. Stimulants (including certain amphetamines), diuretics and masking agents, and beta-2 agonists are also regulated due to performance effects or masking potential.

Regulation and testing: The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) maintains the Prohibited List and coordinates anti-doping programs worldwide. Substances and methods on the list are prohibited in-competition, out-of-competition, or both; athletes may qualify for a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) under medical supervision. Doping-control programs typically involve urine and blood testing, with the Athlete Biological Passport providing a longitudinal record of biological markers to detect abnormalities. New substances and methods challenge detection, leading to ongoing research and rule updates.

Health and ethics: PED use carries serious health risks, including cardiovascular disease, liver and kidney damage, endocrine disruption, psychiatric effects, and dependence. Beyond health risks, doping undermines fair competition, can damage athletes' careers, and raises governance and integrity concerns. Policies emphasize education, testing, and sanctioning to deter use.