Please note this notice supersedes and replace all previous NHA notices on Bisphosphonates.

Bisphosphonates is a class of drug which prevents the loss of bone density in the racehorse.

These substances are prohibited substances within the Rules of the NHA:

73.4.1 Substances capable at any time of causing an action or effect, or both an action and effect:

… 73.4.1.6 the musculoskeletal system; 

The International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) advised that, from 1 January 2027, the International Agreement on Breeding, Racing and Wagering (IABRW, Article 6) will contain a total ban on bisphosphonates (BPs) administration to racehorses.

This ban in the use of bisphosphonates in racehorses at any time is due to significant IFHA welfare-related concerns associated with the use of BPs, including BP-induced interference to bone adaptation and remodeling in growing and exercising horses (potentially resulting in an increased risk of fracture), and evidence that BPs have an analgesic effect (and may be used/abused for this effect). 

This ban will correspondingly be adopted by the NHA on 1 January 2027. 

Racehorses treated with bisphosphonates on or after 1 January 2027 will be subject to a minimum six-month ban from racing.