Prohibited Substances and Methods for Major Events

In-Competition testing may begin a few weeks before a major event actually starts. For example, at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, In-Competition testing began as soon as athletes arrived at the Olympic Village - two weeks before the Games started.

It is very important that you are aware of this and exercise extreme caution as some substances may be prohibited In-Competition but not Out-of-Competition. For example ephedrine - a substance commonly found in medication purchased over-the-counter is prohibited In-Competition but not prohibited Out-of-Competition.  

It is still an Anti-Doping Rule Violation if the presence of a substance is in your system In-Competition, despite when you may have used the substance.