United States Anti Doping Agency (USADA) has banned Miami, Florida amateur cyclist Alejandra Echeverri for 1 year after she violated anti-doping rules and tested positive for chlorothiazide – a banned substance classified as a diuretic and masking agent.

The 2021 GFNY North American Champion tested positive based on the results of an in-competition urine sample collected on 23 October 2022 at GFNY Florida in Sebring, Florida, where she finished third.

USADA determined that Echeverri’s positive test resulted from her use of hydrochlorothiazide, which she obtained over the counter in another country to self-treat a medical condition. However, Echeverri never consulted with a medical doctor and used the medication without a prescription. Echeverri did not have a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE), which is required in order to authorize the use of prohibited substances in sport.

Chlorothiazide is most commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure and edema – fluid retention.

In addition, USADA said prior to the anti-doping test Echeverri received an intravenous infusion of saline solution and vitamins, with no prohibited substances, at an infusion clinic in a volume greater than 100 mL in a 12-hour period without a TUE, also a violation of anti-doping rules.

Intravenous infusions or injections in excess of 100 mL within a 12-hour period received in any setting outside of a hospital or medical clinic require an approved TUE. If a prohibited substance is administered intravenously or via injection, a TUE is necessary regardless of volume. Administration of IV infusions over the 100 mL volume limit, including supplement and vitamin cocktails, provided to athletes for recuperation, recovery, or lifestyle reasons is prohibited at all times without prior TUE approval.

Echeverri is the second 2022 GFNY Florida rider to be banned for anti-doping rule violations after Elias Montenez evaded USADA anti-doping tests and received a four year ban. She is also one of numerous amateur cyclists from South Florida caught doping recently. 

Echeverri’s 1 year ban started 7 February 2023 and ends 7 February 2024.

Photo: YouTube – GFNY