Questions to work through
Identify the governing list.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) makes rules about banned substances in sport. Its 2026 list names BPC-157 among banned substances without approval for use as medicines.
The 2026 WADA list also bans TB-500 at all times, including outside competition.
Check the date on the list.
The 2027 WADA list takes effect January 1, 2027. Until then the 2026 list applies; both lists were checked September 26, 2026.
Ask about a medical exemption through the right body.
An athlete needing a banned medicine for illness can seek special medical permission, called a therapeutic use exemption. USADA, the US Anti-Doping Agency, explains how to apply.
Ask that body what process applies to you before making a treatment decision.
A name missing from examples is not clearance
The 2026 WADA rule also bans substances not named in its examples. This rule covers substances not covered elsewhere on the list. If no government health authority anywhere has approved one as a medicine for people, this rule bans it at all times.
Ask the body that sets your competition rules to check the exact substance, even if its name is missing from the examples. Approval in another country matters to this rule, but does not by itself mean your sport allows the medicine.
Bring a record rather than a nickname
Record the ingredient’s name, how the medicine is given (tablet or injection), and the reason for using it together. Ask the sport’s governing body for an answer that applies to the product and your competition.
Notes for this question
WADA: list currently in force
Use the dated list rather than a promotional summary.
WADA: the coming list
This is the published replacement, with its own start date.
USADA: the exemption process
The relevant process depends on the athlete’s circumstances.