This information was prepared by the National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre in Australia, and used with permission. Some information may not be
accurate for U.S. readers.
Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in the Western world and, correspondingly, is frequently detected via urine testing1,2
in the workplace and in competitive sport.3 Urine testing in the workplace is conducted under the assumption that the substance in
question reduces productivity and increases risk of workplace accidents (thus is an ‘ergolytic’ drug).4 However, urine testing in
competitive sport is conducted under the assumption that the substance in question unfairly increases performance (thus is an
‘ergogenic’ drug).5 This begs the question, what role does marijuana really play in competitive sports?
Participation in competitive sports has been shown to be a protective factor against drug use6 with the notable exception of anabolic
steroids and other performance enhancing substances.7-12 It has been posited that some athletes are driven to use a range of
substances, including alcohol, due to increased pressure resulting from difficulties in balancing a social life along with full course
loads, as well as sport practice and work outs.13,14 Studies on the prevalence of performance enhancing substances in competitive
sport highlight that two to three per cent of adolescents (most studies are conducted with students) have used at least one substance,
although the frequency of performance enhancing substance use is likely to be higher for males compared to females,
older competitors compared to younger competitors and for competitors in a higher or more intensive level of competition.15-22
However, the information available on the frequency of marijuana and other illicit drug use by athletes is less clear.