Conditions and Hardships Related to Pharmacists' Provisions of Anti-Doping Activities in Japan

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of pharmacists working in hospitals and community pharmacies in Japan to assess anti-doping activities, aiming to improve athletes’ medication support. An internet survey was conducted anonymously using a structured questionnaire, with items regarding the respondent’s basic information, their collaboration with other healthcare professionals, and their experiences with medication support for athletes. Of the 841 pharmacists who completed the survey, 21.4% had experienced anti-doping inquiries from athletes, and 18.7% of non-sports pharmacists had experienced medication consultations with athletes. Significantly more accredited sports pharmacists than non-sports pharmacists referred to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Prohibited List (p = 0.009), the Global Drug Reference Online (Global DRO) (p < 0.001), and the Japan Pharmaceutical Association’s antidoping hotline (p = 0.001). A significantly greater proportion of male pharmacists (p < 0.001), accredited sports pharmacists (p < 0.001), and pharmacists who cooperated with other healthcare professionals, such as medical doctors and dietitians (p < 0.001), reported that they were confident handling anti-doping inquiries. Although pharmacists generally conduct consultations with athletes, further education is needed, as pharmacists have trouble effectively providing information on doping prevention. Ideally, athletes should consult with accredited sports pharmacists who have undergone continued anti-doping education. Moreover, multiAdvance Publication by J-STAGE Published online September 4, 2020