UPDATE | Harmonization Among HIWU-Accredited Laboratories of Metformin’s Limit of Detection in Blood

Key Updates in Equine Doping Controls: Standardizing Metformin Testing

Recent actions by the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU) highlight significant strides towards fairness and uniformity in the application and adjudication of horse racing doping controls. Here are the key takeaways:

Inconsistency Identified: An internal review revealed discrepancies among six HIWU-accredited labs in the blood Limit of Detection for Metformin, a banned substance. This inconsistency led to unequal adjudications in doping cases.

Unified Standards: HIWU addressed this by standardizing the Limit of Detection for Metformin across all labs. This immediate rectification ensures consistent testing for this substance nationwide.

Direct Consequences: The standardization had prompt implications. Provisional Suspensions were lifted and Equine Anti-Doping Charge letters were withdrawn for trainers Guadalupe Munoz Elizondo and Javier Morzan, as their horses' Metformin levels fell below the new threshold.

Ongoing Harmonization: Beyond this incident, there's a broader push for uniformity in testing standards. HIWU is actively harmonizing testing sensitivities via robust quality assurance programs, marking progress from the previous state-based regulatory systems.

Future Developments: The transition to the HISA Equine Analytical Laboratory Accreditation standards is underway, anticipated to extend through 2024. This move further solidifies the commitment to the harmonization of its laboratoriesfor and consistency in its detection standards. 

The resolve demonstrated by HIWU in standardizing Metformin testing is a clear indicator of its dedication to upholding the highest integrity levels in horse racing. This development is not just a win for the regulatory bodies but for the entire horse racing community, affirming a commitment to fair competition and the welfare of the equine athletes.

The complete statement from HIWU can be found here: https://www.hiwu.org/news/update-on-admc-cases-and-the-harmonization-among-hiwu-accredited-laboratories-of-metformin-s-limit-of-detection-in-blood