World Anti Doping Agency determined to ban Clenbuterol for 2012 – Cycling News
World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) has released a list of all the methods and products that are considered illegal to be used by any athlete. Many cases were seen during the running year and keeping that in mind WADA has shown no leniency and is keen to make
the sport free from all sort of drug abuse.
Beta-2 agonist Formoterol which is a drug used by the asthma patient was banned in 2011 and it has now been removed from the forbidden list for 2012. WADA stated on allowing the use of Formoterol, “The List prohibits the administration of all beta-2 agonists
except salbutamol (maximum 1600 micrograms over 24 hours), salmeterol when taken by inhalation, and now formoterol (maximum 36 micrograms taken over 24 hours)." There are few additions to the WADA watch list as Nicotine, tramadol, hydrocone and glucocorticosteroid
are also banned for 2012. WADA stated that prohibiting nicotine is not because the organisation is targeting the smokers but the only reason for banning the substance is to monitor the performance after the use of tobacco products.
Clenbuterol was on the banned list during 2011 and it was believed that the amount of its usage might be reconsidered as former Champion Alberto Contador’s case is still unresolved. He tested positive for Clenbuterol during Tour de France 2010 and final
announcement on his case will be made on November 2011. Contador claimed that the positive results for the substance came from the beef that was contaminated. Alberto was supported by the Spanish Federation but WADA and UCI went against them and launched their
appeals with CAS.
Considering Contador’s matter WADA still has decided to stick to their decision that Clenbuterol will remain on the ban list and any cyclist tested positive for any amount of substance will be prosecuted. WADA mentioned, "Clenbuterol is a prohibited substance
and there is no threshold under which this substance is not prohibited."
WADA has also admitted that food contamination can show positive results for Clenbuterol but mentioned that each case is different. They also stated that Contador’s case could be because of contamination and WADA will treat each case after considering all
the facts.
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