The FEI is pleased to announce the launch of the online FEI Prohibited Substances Database which is now available on www.feicleansport.org. The purpose of this new database is to provide clear guidance on the substances included in the Equine Prohibited Substances List coming into effect on 5 April 2010.

Under the new Equine Anti Doping and Controlled Medication Regulations, anything prohibited in competition, no matter how the substance is classified, is called a “Prohibited Substance”. Doping substances, which have no place in equine sport, are called “Banned Substances,” while medication substances that are commonly used in equine medicine but prohibited in competition, are called “Controlled Medication Substances”.

“This new database is an extremely practical tool for anyone involved in equestrian sport, but especially for riders, veterinarians, officials, event organisers, managers, coaches and grooms,” FEI Veterinary Director Graeme Cooke commented. “The ability to search a database in this manner is now very familiar to most people. I invite everyone involved in equestrian sport to visit it and see how easy and straightforward it is to use. The database makes it clearer than ever before what is prohibited under FEI rules. The inappropriate use of substances is a threat to the health and welfare of the horse and the FEI is making every effort to ensure that everyone understands and adheres to the new Regulations. This is especially important as the latter now provides for a minimum sanction of two years for the proven use of a Banned Substances.”

The database contains all the substances – approximately 1,200 – on the Equine Prohibited Substances List. It provides details such as substance definition, common usage and a few but not an exhaustive list of most popular trade names. Detailed instructions for use of the database and a feedback form are also available. It is important to search the database under the active substance and not the trade name before you use a medication, as simple trade names can vary substantially between countries and can change over time.

The database will be constantly updated and any new substances that are added to the Equine Prohibited Substances List will be added to the database as well. New substances will not lead to a regulation violation until they have been on the List for at least ninety (90) days.

To view the new database as well as the new Regulations, List, Athlete’s and How Testing Works Guides and much more, visit now www.feicleansporg.org.