WADA Rules on Peptide Hormones and Growth Factors

Overview of WADA prohibited peptide categories, including peptide hormones, growth factors, and related substances under the 2026 Prohibited List.

Filed under sports rules, written for athlete-coach, clinician, regulator-compliance, evidence level regulatory-update.

Not medically reviewed. Last updated 2026-01-15. Nothing here is medical advice.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibits the use of peptide hormones, growth factors, related substances, and mimetics in sport. The 2026 Prohibited List, which is now in force, maintains these substances as a prohibited category.

Prohibited Categories Relevant to Peptides

S2. Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances, and Mimetics

This category includes:

• **Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents** (EPO and related peptides)
• **Peptide hormones and their releasing factors**: Growth hormone (GH), growth hormone-releasing hormones (GHRH), growth hormone secretagogues (GHS), IGF-1, and related peptides
• **Growth factors**: Mechano growth factors, platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factors
• **Other peptide hormones**: ACTH, kisspeptin, melanotan

S4. Hormone and Metabolic Modulators

Some peptides also fall under modulators of metabolic pathways.

Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs)

Athletes who require a prohibited peptide for a legitimate medical condition may apply for a TUE. This requires documentation from a treating physician and approval from the relevant anti-doping organization.

Consequences of Violations

Anti-doping rule violations can result in:

• Disqualification of results
• Suspensions ranging from months to years
• Financial penalties
• Reputational damage

Compliance Guidance

Athletes and coaches should:

• Check all medications and supplements against the WADA Prohibited List
• Use the WADA or USADA substance lookup tools
• Consult with team physicians before using any peptide product
• Be aware that "research peptides" are not exempt from anti-doping rules

This article provides anti-doping education only and does not provide performance enhancement guidance.

More guides: All guides, Safety centre, Peptide library.