*If you would like to be notified of changes in the Kentucky Administrative Regulations pertaining to the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA), please click the link below:
Request for notification of Administrative Regulations

The equine drug regulation, 810 KAR 1:018, became effective on February 3, 2006.  This regulation governs medication, testing procedures and prohibited practices and is commonly referred to as the "Drug Rule."  Click here to read 810 KAR 1:018.

KHRA Drug and Medication Classification Schedule 11-05

Click here to see a copy of 810 KAR 1:028, also known as the penalty regulation.

***Revised Penalty Regulations at 810 KAR 1:028 have been  promulgated by the KHRA. Withdrawal guidelines for certain medications are incorporated by reference into the revised penalty regulations. These guidelines are voluntary and advisory. As each additional medication is brought to the attention of the KHRA or the Equine Drug Research Council (EDRC) it is anticipated that the EDRC will study the medication and make a recommendation to the KHRA for withdrawal guidelines. The KHRA issued an advisory regarding Naproxen.

Proposed Revised Penalty Regulations

Naproxen Advisory

Withdrawal Guidelines

Medications and equine drug testing medication utilizes modern therapeutic measures calculated to improve and protect the health and well being of horses. Administration to a horse in training is under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. 
      
In the interest of protecting the racing public, the health of the horse, safety of the racing participant, nurturing formful racing and improving the breeds of horses, administrative regulations are strictly enforced. A horse may not race with any medication, drug or substance which is a narcotic or serves as a local anesthetic or tranquilizer. Additionally any medication, drug or substance that could stimulate or depress the circulatory, respiratory or central nervous system of a horse is prohibited. 
      
Winning horses, and others directed by the stewards, are ordered to the detention barn to have blood and urine samples extracted for post race testing.   This testing is presently being performed by Iowa State University, an independent commercial testing facility with more than 70 years of experience. 
      
The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority strives to provide the most extensive and up-to-date testing that is available to the industry. Additionally, the authority fully participates in quality assurance and testing integrity programs provided by the racing industry.

Click here to see statutes pertaining to horse racing.

Click here to see administrative regulations pertaining to thoroughbred racing.