On Monday, July 27, 2020, the APHRC Commissioners met via conference call to review the capsaicin positives not only in the Atlantic provinces, but across Canada, as well.

Due to a potential source of positive tests for capsaicin from a product called Zev (Lot#190104 Exp:01-2022), the APHRC will be granting temporary stays to all trainers who have received a positive test certificate for capsaicin. The horses will still be ineligible for 30 days. This will allow the APHRC time to further work alongside industry partners across Canada concerning this matter.

As a reminder, capsaicin is classified as a Class II drug, as per the Racing Commissioners International (RCI) Uniform Classification Guidelines for Foreign Substances 2020.

The Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA) initially issued a notice to the racing industry in September 2019 regarding capsaicin, and reminded veterinarians, and racehorse trainers that capsaicin is a prohibited substance in Canada due to its painkilling properties. The CPMA has since further issued two further updates on June 23, 2020, and additional information on July 16, 2020.

The APHRC remains committed to the health and welfare of equine athletes and the integrity of racing in the Atlantic provinces. Trainers are advised to always use caution with all products administered to a horse. Not all ingredients which could result in positive tests may be listed on a product.

(APHRC)