Drugs in Sport

Drug use and abuse is perhaps the biggest challenge facing sport today. However, in the eye of the storm of public and press opinion and with medals and morals at stake, it can be difficult to gain a clear perspective on this complex issue. Drugs in Sport is the most comprehensive and accurate text available on the subject. Now in a fully revised and updated fifth edition, taking into account the latest regulations, methods and landmark cases, the book explores the hard science behind drug use in sport, as well as the ethical, social, political and administrative context. Key topics include:

• mode of action and side effects of each major class of drugs used in sport
• discussion of cutting-edge issues, including gene doping
• the latest doping control regulations of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)
• methods and advances in doping control, including new intelligence-led detection policies
• the use of Therapeutic Use Exemption for certain drugs banned in sport
• issues surrounding non-prohibited substances and ergogenic aids
• an assessment of the prevalence of drug taking in sport.

Accessibly written, extensively referenced, and supported throughout with illustrative case studies and data, Drugs in Sport provides a comprehensive, objective resource for students and researchers, athletes, sports scientists, coaches, journalists, sports administrators and policymakers.

David R. Mottram is Emeritus Professor of Pharmacy Practice at Liverpool John Moores University. His research interests have centred on the use of drugs in sport with particular emphasis on over-the-counter drugs. He is the editor of 4 previous editions of Drugs in Sport.