The use of medication and supplements during the international rugby league World Cup 2021

BACKGROUND: Medications and dietary supplements (DS) are increasingly used in team sports. Because of that we examined the medication and dietary supplements (DS) used by male, female, and wheelchair rugby players during the International Rugby League World Cup 2021. METHODS: Retrospective descriptive analysis of medication and DS by analysis of athletes' declaration of medications and supplements intake on the 188 Doping Control Form (DCF). RESULTS: A total of 439 products were reported; 210 (48%) were medications, and 229 (52%) were DS. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were used most frequently (35%), followed by other analgesics (paracetamol). Proteins, pre-workout products, and multivitamins were the most used DS, whereas 37% of players used both medications and supplements, and 18% took only DS. In addition, seven prohibited substances and methods have been reported but with approved Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). CONCLUSIONS: The high intake of NSAIDs and analgesics in rugby league should be addressed, together with possible side effects. Players and team doctors must be educated about TUE and the use of drugs from the Prohibited List. DS that can enhance sports performance should be used in individualized protocols. Multi-component products, frequently used in rugby league, can increase the risk of prohibited contamination. Evidence-based approach for medication and DS use to protect the athletes' health and prevent doping incidents is essential.