With effect from 1 April 2015, new testing methodology will be introduced by the Laboratory of The National Horseracing Authority which will allow for the direct detection of Prednisolone Hemisuccinate in blood and urine.
Prednisolone Hemisuccinate arises from the use of Prednisolone Sodium Succinate. It is a pro-drug of Prednisolone and is a prohibited substance under rule 73.4.
This method of Prednisolone Hemisuccinate screening detects the recent use of veterinary preparations containing the active ingredient Prednisolone Sodium Succinate. Solu-delta-Cortef is an example of such a preparation. Such preparations should not therefore be used at least 24 hours before the day of the race.
Note that the qualitative detection of Prednisolone Hemisuccinate in a blood or urine sample at any concentration constitutes a breach of the Rules of The National Horseracing Authority.
For more information on Prednisolone Hemisuccinate refer to The National Horseracing Authority website, Laboratory section.
