CPMA Adjusts Testing Criteria for Capsaicin As Positives Continue

Since June 2020, the Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA) has issued Certificates of Positive Analysis for capsaicin in all Canadian jurisdictions that raced.

When a cluster of positive cases is reported, the CPMA begins an investigation, in collaboration with the provincial regulatory bodies (PRB), to determine the source of the positive cases.

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Investigations by PRB have revealed multiple possible sources for the positive tests, including trainers feeding cayenne pepper and capsaicin-contaminated supplements. However, the use of anti-chewing and cribbing products poses a low risk of causing a positive test for capsaicin.

PRB investigations have also revealed the undeclared presence of capsaicin in various regulated and unregulated supplements. Therefore, the CPMA has adjusted its testing criteria for capsaicin to reduce the likelihood that these products will cause a positive test result.

Nevertheless, the administration of oral supplements and/or topical preparations containing capsaicin within 24h of a race may still cause a positive test result. To reduce the risk of a positive test, all oral supplements and topical products should be withdrawn at least 48h before a race.

The HBPA Ontario has been doing its own investigation this year on the possible course of the positive tests and supporting horsepeople who have had such tests, working with regulator Alcohol and Gaming Commission Ontario to allow horsepeople to avoid suspensions and penalties.

The HBPA issued the following memo last week:

The number of positives called for Capsaicin in Ontario continues to grow. We must draw your attention to the seriousness of Capsaicin positives and the penalty that it potentially entails.

The HBPA along with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA) continue to investigate these positives. Previous investigations confirmed the presence of Capsaicin in ZEV, which is why we advised trainers to eliminate or limit its use especially in the few days before racing.

After several warnings from the HBPA, AGCO and CPMA it is becoming harder to defend ongoing positives with the information we now know. As unfair as it seems the onus is on the trainer under the Absolute Liability rule. Capsaicin, a Class II drug carries a minimum 1-year suspension and $10,000 fine. The HBPA Board maintains its belief that nothing nefarious or deliberate has been done by any thoroughbred trainer but lack of knowledge or careless
administration is not a defense.

In the meantime, we ask that you continue to be cautious. Please use extra care examining ALL medications, supplements, feed, bedding, ointments, electrolytes, throat washes, etc. and any other products you may use on or around your horses. Make sure grooms and others wash hands thoroughly when moving care from one horse to another. We have excellent veterinarians on the backside, your veterinarian is your wisest resource, please speak with them about anything that touches or is ingested by your horse.

The CPMA strongly recommends that horsepeople consult their veterinarian on any decision to administer supplements or medications to a horse.

The CPMA can be reached at 1-800-268-8835 or aafc.cpmawebacpm.aac@canada.ca.