Tactical research studies focus on detecting, identifying, and inhibiting the use of illicit substances in racehorses. | Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt/The Horse

The first of three Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) tactical research studies conducted over the last year was published on Oct. 16.

Tactical research studies focus on detecting, identifying, and inhibiting the use of illicit substances in racehorses.

The study, “L-and D-threo Ethylphenidate Concentrations, Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics in Horses,” was funded with significant assistance from the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Foundation. Heather Knych DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVCP, from the University of California, Davis, K. L. Maddy Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, performed the research with the goal of preventing use of ethylphenidate—a psychostimulant and analog of the commonly prescribed compound methylphenidate (Ritalin)—in racehorses. The research was published in the October 2018 issue of Drug Testing Analysis