WADA releases new and updated Guidelines to complement the 2021 International Standard for Laboratories

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is pleased to publish the following new and updated Laboratory Guidelines to support laboratories and Anti-Doping Organizations (ADOs) in their implementation of the 2021 International Standard for Laboratories (ISL), which came into force on 1 January 2021.

New

• Gene Doping Detection based on Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Updated

• Human Growth Hormone (hGH) Biomarkers Test version 3.0
• Conducting and Reporting Subcontracted Analysis and Further Analysis for Doping Control version 3.0
• Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) Enquiries version 4.0

Under the ISL, Laboratory Guidelines are issued to provide guidance to WADA-accredited laboratories, WADA-approved laboratories for the Athlete Biological Passport; and, other stakeholders on specific technical or procedural issues. As part of WADA’s mandate to enhance anti-doping activities under the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), the Guidelines undergo periodic revisions to reflect scientific and technological advances in the performance of anti-doping tests and the reporting of test results.

While implementation of the Guidelines is not mandatory, all accredited and approved laboratories are encouraged to follow, to the fullest extent possible, the recommendations of best practice that they outline.

Should you have any questions regarding the Laboratory Guidelines, or wish to provide feedback, please contact WADA’s Science Department at: science@wada-ama.org.