A Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) is an exemption to allow an athlete to use an otherwise prohibited substance or method (of administering a substance) which may be present during competition.

Athletes, like all others, may have illnesses or conditions that require them to take particular medications. If the medication an athlete is required to take to treat an illness or condition happens to fall under the Prohibited List, the athlete can submit a Therapeutic Use Exemption to give that athlete the authorization to take the needed medicine.

Should I apply for a TUE?

If you are currently taking a medication or substance or if you have recently been taking a medication or substance you should phone the ASADA Anti-Doping Hotline on 1800 020 506 to check if the medication or substance is prohibited.

How do I apply for a TUE?

Once you have confirmed that you are taking a prohibited medication or substance go to the 'drugs in sport' webpage on the Equestrian Australia website where you will find links to Therapeutic Use Exemption forms.

If you are a competitor competing at an INTERNATIONAL level (CDI, CDI-W, CSI, CSI-W, CIC, CIC-W, CCI, CPEI, CEI, CAI, CAI-W, CVI and CRI) you will need to complete the Therapeutic Use Exemption form issued by The World Anti Doping Authority (WADA) via the FEI.

If you are a competitor competing at a NATIONAL level you will need to complete the Therapeutic Use Exemption form issued by Australian Sports Drug Medical Advisory Committee (ASDMAC).

What are the criteria for granting a TUE?

The criteria are:

·         The athlete would experience significant health problems without taking the prohibited substance or method,

·         The therapeutic use of the substance would not produce significant enhancement of performance, and

·         There is no reasonable therapeutic alternative to the use of the otherwise prohibited substance or method.

For full information please refer to the ASDMAC and WADA website links below.