RACING Queensland stewards have determined altrenogest is not an anabolic androgenic steroid based on veterinary advice received during their investigation into a sample taken from a yearling colt sold at this year’s Magic Millions January sale.

RQ General Manager of Stewards and Integrity Operations Wade Birch said upon the sample’s return, stewards had sought the advice of the Veterinary and Analysts Committee and a prominent Queensland Professor of Veterinary Pharmacology to determine whether altrenogest was an anabolic androgenic steroid.

Stewards also considered the newly-introduced Australian Rule of Racing 15D and 177B(2), pertaining to the testing of horses out of competition. The panel also considered an Australian Racing Board notice containing a list of substances prohibited by the newly-introduced rules.

The notice also advised that altrenogest was permitted for use in female horses to regulate their cycles.

“Upon considering veterinary advice and the Australian Racing Board notice, stewards determined that altrenogest is not an anabolic androgenic steroid, and is therefore not prohibited in male horses if present in a sample taken out of competition,” Mr Birch said.

“Despite having a similar chemical structure to an anabolic androgenic steroid, the advice we received satisfies us that altrenogest does not have a similar biological effect.

“Accordingly, no bans will be imposed on the colt in question.

“As a result of these findings, Racing Queensland will compile a report for the Australian Racing Board advising of its considerations and the advice received in the course of the investigation.”