Sport has become a worldwide language. No doubt, the development of sport as a universal phenomenon has only come about because of the increasing significance attached to one specific aspect of sport—top fight competition. In recent decades, these trends have sometimes led to excesses and abuses. In fact, ethical standards that are sport-based. Baron Pierre de Coubertin wished to infuse into the Olympic Games when he said in 1908 that the main thing was not to win but to take part.
Competition, especially in competitive sports, is always an amalgam of triumphs and tragedies. At every age, they have sought to improve their performance and sharpen their physical and mental facilities. In fact, with the progress of science, notably with the development of amphetamines and the abolishment of drugs, we all want to win because these days, victory is the key to happiness and economic matrix.
In everlasting loving memory of the budding medico, Dr Divya Jain (1995–2021), who died last year following Covid-related complications and inspired many to take up sports very ethically.
The newly published ‘Directory: Drugs in Sports 2022’ written by renowned Dr Shila Jain, former Scientific Director, National Dope Testing Laboratory, Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs, New Delhi and acclaimed Dr Jawahar L. Jain, erstwhile Senior Physician and Medical Administrator, University of Delhi and earlier Member Medical Commission, Indian Olympic Association. The authors have tried to educate players, coaches, doctors, and sports administrators. ‘Directory: Drugs in Sports 2022’ covers all aspects of doping. This current edition brings to athletes the latest list of banned and permissible drugs, with Indian examples too, as well as the effects and adverse effects of banned drugs in brief. The most useful directory also contains the generic names of all permissible drugs. In fact, drugs used in sports were previously under the domain of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
The 9th edition is divided into seven sub-themes. The first part is the list of prohibited substances, and the second part is the effects and side effects of different classes of prohibited drugs. The third part is the list of banned drugs falling into various prohibited classes as per WADA in alphabetical order. The fourth part is an example of permitted drugs and preparations widely used in India for various medical conditions. The fifth part is the list of permitted classes of drugs (chemical or generic names).
Finally, the last chapter is entitled “List of International Olympic Committee and list of WADA accredited Laboratories for Doping Control Analysis 2022 in the world”.
The ‘Directory’ is largely of the nature of consolidation, in-depth analysis, and revolutionary recommendations. The writers deserve compliments. More such Directory’s are welcome for the guidance of players, coaches, and doctors. It’s recommended for schools, colleges, universities, and others who are involved in sports.