HISA Board Votes to Maintain Status Quo on Lasix Use

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Board of Directors has voted unanimously to maintain the current rules governing the use of Lasix in Thoroughbred racing, preserving the existing regulatory framework for the foreseeable future.

The decision means that Lasix (furosemide) will remain prohibited in all two-year-old races and in all stakes races conducted under HISA jurisdiction, while continuing to be permitted in other race conditions.  

Background on the Decision

When HISA’s Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program was implemented in 2023, it included a three-year moratorium on a full ban of race-day Lasix. During that period, HISA commissioned and reviewed scientific studies examining the medication’s impact on equine health and racing integrity.  

Under the framework established by the federal Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act, any continuation of race-day Lasix beyond that moratorium required a unanimous vote by the nine-member HISA Board.  

With this week’s vote, the Board elected to extend the current policy rather than move forward with a complete ban.

Role of Scientific Review

In announcing its decision, HISA indicated that it considered the findings and recommendations of its Furosemide Advisory Committee, which evaluated the available research on Lasix.

According to the Authority, the committee found that current scientific evidence does not support the conclusion that Lasix functions as a performance-enhancing substance, a key factor in the Board’s determination to maintain the status quo.  

Industry Implications

The vote resolves months of uncertainty across the industry, where horsemen, veterinarians, and regulators had been closely monitoring the potential for a sweeping rule change.

A full ban would have significantly altered race-day management practices nationwide. Instead, the continuation of current rules provides regulatory stability heading into the summer racing season, including key meets across HISA-regulated jurisdictions.

The decision also reflects the ongoing balance within the sport between equine health considerations, competitive integrity, and practical realities faced by trainers and owners.

Looking Ahead

While the immediate question surrounding a full Lasix ban has been settled, the issue remains a focal point of broader discussions about medication policy and horse welfare in the United States.

HISA will continue to oversee national standards for safety and medication control, with future policy adjustments possible as additional research and industry input evolve.