Banned Substance Testing
Banned Substance Testing (also called Drug Testing)
Many compliance offices prefer “banned substance testing” over “drug testing” because the screened list extends well beyond illicit drugs. NCAA testing screens athletes for substances on the NCAA banned drug class list. Testing happens year-round and at championship events, and a positive test carries eligibility consequences. Schools also run their own institutional testing programs, which operate separately and may have different rules.
Q. What is tested for?
Substances in the NCAA’s banned classes, including anabolic agents, stimulants, peptide hormones, diuretics and masking agents. The NCAA removed cannabinoids from its banned list for championship testing, though institutional policies may still address them.
Q. What are the penalties?
Penalties depend on the substance class and prior history, and generally involve loss of eligibility for a period of competition. Performance-enhancing substances carry the most severe consequences.
Q. What about supplements?
Athletes are responsible for what is in their body regardless of source. Contaminated supplements remain one of the most common causes of positive tests, which is why most schools require review before use.
Q. Does a medical exception exist?
Yes. Athletes with a documented medical need for a banned substance can seek a medical exception, but the documentation must be on file before a test, not after.
