The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission has adopted a policy whereby administration of corticosteroids in horses must be stopped seven days prior race day.

The regulation takes effect June 1, according to a policy directive signed May 4. The PHRC unanimously voted for the regulation April 15.

Corticosteroids–those commonly used in horses include dexamethasone, prednisone, and triamcinolone–have strong anti-inflammatory capabilities and are designed to be used therapeutically. They are injected into joints to alleviate swelling.

During the recent Association of Racing Commissioners International convention in Lexington, Larry Soma, VMD, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, which developed the definitive test for blood-doping agents in horses, said corticosteroids are “potent drugs that have multiple actions on the body,” and are effective at low concentrations