Medication Administration Guidelines
Equine Sports Council takes a common-sense approach to supporting our equine partner’s health, while maintaining a fair playing field and successful experience for both horse and rider. Many daily therapeutic medications with no performance enhancing values are permitted without withdrawal from competition.
Medical Reports are required when recommended withdrawal times are 24 hours or greater, or when the medication was not administered as per ESC guidelines. Medical Reports are not required when medications are given prior to the recommended withdrawal period.
Medications Control Guide
The Equine Sport Council (ESC) classifies controlled medications based on their therapeutic and medical use in performance horses. Performance-enhancing substances must be strictly controlled by the prescribing veterinarian. Detection of these substances may lead to increased penalties and disqualifications. Horses treated for emergencies or life-threatening situations at ESC events should receive medically necessary care to ensure their safety and well-being. ESC and its lab partners do not provide medical advice or treatment protocols.
Veterinarians may call ESC’s emergency line at 1-855-378-4631 (option 1) to validate withdrawal adjustments and permitted ESC concentration levels based on prescribed medication, administration, route, and dosage. Veterinarians must submit ESC Medication Reports to adjust withdrawal times or document exceptions.
End-User License Agreement (EULA) for Use of the Equine Sport Council’s Controlled Medications Database
- Acceptance of Terms
By accessing or using the Equine Sport Council’s (ESC) Controlled Medications (“Database”), you agree to be bound by this End-User License Agreement (“Agreement”). - Disclaimer of Accuracy
The Database content is compiled from commercially available sources. ESC does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. Users acknowledge that the Database is for reference purposes only. - Use Restrictions
The information in the Database is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prescribe medications for any animals. All dosing instructions are generally based on a 1000 pound (approximately 453 kg) horse unless otherwise specified. Dosages expressed in mg (milligrams) or mcg (micrograms) per kg (kilogram) refer to the weight of the horse or dosing per 100 or 1000 pounds accordingly. - Veterinary Oversight
All medications administered at ESC-sanctioned events must be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian. Veterinarians should use the Database solely as a tool to help determine appropriate withdrawal times prior to competition. - Withdrawal and Safety
Medications must clear the horse’s system before competition. Ensuring plasma concentration levels are below the lowest level of detection (LOD) is the most conservative and recommended approach to withdrawal. The health and safety of the horse take precedence over performance considerations. - Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, ESC shall not be liable for any damages arising out of or related to the use or inability to use the Database, including but not limited to injury or harm to animals. - Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws applicable to the ESC jurisdiction.
By using the Database, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this Agreement.