Racing Australia (formerly the Australian Racing Board) recently released an amendment to AR177B(2)(l), defining Xenon and Argon gas as hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) activators. This amendment became effective 1 May 2015.
Xenon and Argon are inert gasses that when administered at appropriate doses have significant effects on mammalian body systems, including stimulating the production of red blood cells by acting as Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF) activators.
Members are therefore advised that Xenon and Argon are prohibited substances in accordance with
> AR177B(2)a because they are categorised as erythropoiesis-stimulating agents by their action as hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) activators;
> AR178B(1) as acting on the blood system; and
> AR178B(2) as haemopoietic agents.
Members are further advised that the possession of Xenon or Argon in any form that could be administered to a racehorse is an offence in accordance with AR177B(5).
