FEI warns about banned substance Synephrine

The FEI is warning the equestrian community about Synephrine, which is a Banned Substance listed on the Equine Prohibited Substances List.

A high number of samples taken from horses under the Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Programme have tested positive for the substance. Investigations into the sources of the positive cases are continuing but the FEI is warning that synephrine can be found in the horse’s environment so it is advising of how to prevent a positive finding.

Synephrine is a stimulant which can cause vasoconstriction, an increased heart rate and is used as a weight loss aid.

In certain parts of the world, synephrine can be found in plants such as common rush (Juncus usitatus), Mullumbimby couch (Cyperus brevifolus) and the leaves of citrus trees (e.g. mandarin, orange and lemon). Synephrine has also been detected in Teff grass hay in some countries.

It can also be found as an ingredient of herbal and nutritional supplements, and commonly found in the peel extract of bitter orange (also known as Seville orange) which is used as a flavouring agent.

The BGA's Groom Clean is an interactive e-learning course which will give you an understanding of the importance of anti-doping and controlled medication in equestrian sports. 

The course covers both the technical aspects of anti-doping, the testing procedure and practical stable management tips on how to avoid an anti-doping rule violation. 

On completion of the course you will receive a Groom Clean certificate. Groom Clean is open to all and BGA members can complete the course for free 

Find out more here.