CPMA has issued a reminder to the horse community regarding the testing

The Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA) has issued a reminder to the Canadian horse racing community regarding the testing for capsaicin and isoflupredone in official samples.

Reminder: Testing for Capsaicin and Isoflupredone

The CPMA would like to remind trainers, owners, veterinarians, and other stakeholders that testing for capsaicin and isoflupredone remains a key part of the Equine Drug Control Program.

To reduce the risk of a positive test, the CPMA offers the following guidelines:

Capsaicin

- Avoid administering or feeding oral supplements or products containing capsaicin within 48 hours of a race.

- Do not feed cayenne pepper or other spices to racehorses.

- Stop using topical products (e.g., ointments, liniments) with capsaicin at least 48 hours before a race.

- Check the ingredient list of any supplements given to ensure they do not contain capsaicin.

Isoflupredone

- Note that the new elimination guideline for a 10 mg IA / single dose of isoflupredone is six days. Intramuscular use is no longer advised due to its variable and prolonged elimination.

- Detection of capsaicin or isoflupredone outside these guidelines may result in a positive test.

The CPMA strongly advises consulting a veterinarian before administering any supplements or medications to racehorses.