The new Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) Prohibited Substances Database is now available online. The purpose of this new database is to provide clear guidance on the substances included in the Equine Prohibited Substances List, which comes into effect on April 5.

Under the new Equine Anti Doping and Controlled Medication Regulations, anything prohibited in competition, no matter how the substance is classified, is called a "Prohibited Substance." Doping substances are called "Banned Substances," while medication substances that are commonly used in equine medicine but prohibited in competition, are called "Controlled Medication Substances."

"This new database is an extremely practical tool for anyone involved in equestrian sport, but especially for riders, veterinarians, officials, event organisers, managers, coaches and grooms," said FEI Veterinary Director Graeme Cooke, MA, VetMB, MRCVS. "The ability to search a database in this manner is now very familiar to most people. I invite everyone involved in equestrian sport to visit it and see how easy and straightforward it is to use. The database makes it clearer than ever before what is prohibited under FEI rules. The inappropriate use of substances is a threat to the health and welfare of the horse and the FEI is making every effort to ensure that everyone understands and adheres to the new Regulations. This is especially important as the latter now provides for a minimum two-year sanction for the proven use of a Banned Substances."

The database contains all the substances–approximately 1,200–on the Equine Prohibited Substances List. It provides details such as substance definition, common usage, and a few (but not an exhaustive list) of most popular trade names. Detailed instructions for use of the database and a feedback form are also available. It is important to search the database under the active substance and not the trade name before you use a medication, as simple trade names can vary substantially between countries and can change over time