Each year the NCAA randomly tests student-athletes for banned substances. If you have tested positive for an NCAA banned substance, you will lose your eligibility for a minimum of 1 year. This means you cannot participate in athletic activities at an NCAA institution during the post-season for a minimum of one calendar year following the positive drug test. You will also lose your eligibility during that time.

It is important to know that combinations of some of the supplements found in smoothies or other workout drinks can combine into substances on the NCAA banned drugs list! If you put supplements in your drinks, please check with the training room or the compliance office to make sure those supplements are okay to use and still compete.

NCAA Rules and regulations pertaining to drug testing

NCAA Banned-Drug Classes
2006-2007

The NCAA list of banned-drug classes is subject to change by the NCAA Executive Committee. Contact NCAA education services or www.ncaa.org/health-safety for the current list. The term "related compounds" comprises substances that are included in the class by their pharmacological action and/or chemical structure. No substance belonging to the prohibited class may be used, regardless of whether it is specifically listed as an example.

Many nutritional/dietary supplements contain NCAA banned substances. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not strictly regulate the supplement industry; therefore purity and safety of nutritional dietary supplements cannot be guaranteed. Impure supplements may lead to a positive NCAA drug test. The use of supplements is at the student-athlete's own risk. Student-athletes should contact their institution's team physician or athletic trainer for further information.

Bylaw 31.2.3. Banned Drugs
The following is a list of banned-drug classes, with examples of substances under each class: