What is a therapeutic use exemption, and do I need one?

A Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) permits an athlete to use a substance or method that is otherwise prohibited, strictly for legitimate medical treatment. In Australia, TUEs are managed and approved by the Australian Sports Drug Medical Advisory Committee (ASDMAC).

Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) says to work it out like this:

1. Check the substance on Global DRO (or in the Sport Integrity App) to see if it is prohibited.
2. If it is prohibited and you need it, work out whether you need an in-advance TUE (only certain higher-level athletes) or can apply for a retroactive TUE once tested or advised by SIA.

Timing: apply before taking the medication, except in emergencies and hospital visits. For substances prohibited in-competition only, apply at least 30 days before your next competition, unless it is an emergency or exceptional situation.

Keep in mind:

• an application is not guaranteed approval, and not all medications are eligible
• a TUE cannot be approved for an undiagnosed medical condition, or if you take a sibling's or teammate's medication
• a TUE only protects you if you use the medication as the TUE allows
• using a prohibited substance without an approved TUE could result in an anti-doping rule violation.

Source: https://www.sportintegrity.gov.au/what-we-do/therapeutic-use-exemption-tue