Categories of Prohibited Substances (AQA GCSE Physical Education): Revision Notes

Categories Of Prohibited Substances

1. Stimulants

• What They Do: Make you more alert and reduce tiredness.
• Examples: Caffeine (in large amounts), amphetamines.
• Risks: Can cause heart problems and addiction.

2. Painkillers (Narcotic Analgesics)

• What They Do: Hide pain so you can keep playing even if injured.
• Examples: Morphine, heroin.
• Risks: Highly addictive and can cause serious health issues.

3. Muscle Builders (Anabolic Steroids)

• What They Do: Help build muscle and get stronger.
• Examples: Testosterone, nandrolone.
• Risks: Can damage your liver and heart, and mess with hormones.

4. Hormones and Growth Factors

• What They Do: Boost muscle growth and help with recovery.
• Examples: EPO, human growth hormone (HGH).
• Risks: Can cause heart problems and abnormal growth.

5. Diuretics and Masking Agents

• What They Do: Help lose weight quickly and hide other drugs in the body.
• Examples: Furosemide.
• Risks: Can lead to dehydration and kidney damage.

6. Beta-2 Agonists

• What They Do: Improve breathing and muscle growth.
• Examples: Salbutamol.
• Risks: Can cause heart issues and shaking.

7. Hormone Modulators

• What They Do: Change hormone levels to boost performance.
• Examples: Tamoxifen.
• Risks: Can mess up hormone balance and increase cancer risk.

8. Anti-inflammatory Drugs (Glucocorticoids)

• What They Do: Reduce swelling and pain.
• Examples: Prednisone.
• Risks: Can weaken bones and immune system.

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📛 Why These Are Banned

• Fair Play: Keeps sports fair for everyone.
• Health: Protects athletes from harmful side effects.
• Ethics: Maintains honesty and integrity in sports