Every year, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) reviews the substances and methods that are banned in sport to make sure they reflect current research and trends.  

WADA has now released the 2027 Prohibited List (2027 List) and Monitoring Program, introducing some useful updates and clarifications. These include changes relating to cannabinoids, peptides and GLP-1 medications. 

The changes don't come into effect until 1 January 2027, but it's never too early to check whether your medications and supplements are safe to use. A quick check before you take something can help you avoid a much bigger problem later. 

Find out how to check a medication on Global DRO 

A big change for next year, is the way the 2027 Prohibited List classifies cannabinoids. 

Previously, all cannabinoids except CBD were banned in-competition. The 2027 List only bans substances that are or act like THC. 

 What hasn’t changed: 

• THC remains banned in-competition 

• CBD is permitted – but THC contamination is a risk and athletes must make an informed decision before using CBD products. 

 Read more about cannabis in sport

WADA has added peptides as an example under the Non-Approved Substances category.  

 This category lists substances that are: 

• banned in sport at all times 

• not captured elsewhere in the Prohibited List 

• aren’t approved for human therapeutic use (for example, as a medicine) 

 Be particularly cautious about peptide products and substances sold online. Named on the Prohibited List or not, they may still be banned and pose a serious risk to your career and your health. 

 Read more about the risks of peptides 

GLP-1 medications include: 

• semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) 

• tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) 

WADA has reviewed these substances and they remain permitted in sport in 2027.  

However, because they are becoming more common, WADA has signalled that more research is needed and their status needs to be reviewed again in the future.