Colorado Springs, Colo. (August 31, 2012) – USADA announced today that Steven Andrus of East Lansing, Michigan an athlete in the sport of Wrestling, has tested positive for a prohibited substance and accepted a suspension for his doping offense.

Andrus, 22, tested positive for tetrahydrocannabinol acid, a marijuana metabolite in the class of Cannabinoids, and an Amphetamine in the class of non-specified stimulants as the result of a sample collected on April 21, 2012 at the U.S. Olympic Trials in Iowa City, IA. Andrus established that the Amphetamine came from an ADHD medication; however Andrus had not gained advanced approval to use the medication during competition as required under the rules. Both substances are prohibited under the USADA Protocol for Olympic and Paralympic Movement Testing and the International Federation of Associated Wrestling Styles (FILA) Anti-Doping Rules, both of which have adopted the World Anti-Doping Code and the WADA Prohibited List. 

Andrus accepted a one-year period of ineligibility, which began on May 25, 2012, the day he accepted a provisional sanction.

As a result of the doping violation, Andrus has been disqualified from his competitive results achieved on and subsequent to April 21, 2012, the day he provided his sample, including forfeiture of any medals, points, and prizes.

In an effort to aid athletes, as well as all support team members such as parents and coaches, in understanding the rules applicable to them, USADA provides comprehensive instruction on its website on the testing process and prohibited substances, how to obtain permission to use a necessary medication, and the risks and dangers of taking supplements as well as performance-enhancing and recreational drugs. In addition, the agency manages a drug reference hotline, Drug Reference Online (www.GlobalDRO.com), conducts educational sessions with National Governing Bodies and their athletes, and proactively distributes a multitude of educational materials, such as the Prohibited List, easy-reference wallet cards, periodic newsletters, and protocol and policy reference documentation.

USADA is responsible for the testing and results management process for athletes in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, and is equally dedicated to preserving the integrity of sport through research initiatives and educational programs.