Ruth Chepng’etich Suspended Over Doping – AIU Confirms HCTZ Violation

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has provisionally suspended Kenyan marathon sensation and world record-holder Ruth Chepng’etich after she tested positive for Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a prohibited diuretic listed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

The sample, collected on 14 March 2025, reportedly contained 3,800 ng/mL of HCTZ—far above the WADA threshold of 20 ng/mL. The AIU officially reported the case on 3 April, with further investigation conducted in Kenya on 16 April. Chepng’etich agreed to a voluntary suspension on 29 April, prior to today’s official Notice of Charge.

> “She complied with all requests during the investigation,” said AIU Head Brett Clothier. “Now that we’ve issued a formal Notice of Charge, our own provisional suspension is in effect.”

HCTZ is often used to mask the use of performance-enhancing drugs, making its detection a serious doping offense under international sports law. Chepng’etich’s case will be reviewed by the AIU Disciplinary Tribunal, and she reserves the right to defend herself.

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⚠️ What is Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)?

HCTZ is a prescription diuretic used to treat high blood pressure and water retention. Under WADA’s Prohibited List (Class S5), its use is banned ion-competition due to its potential to obscure the presence of other performance-enhancing

drugs (PEDs).