Ruth Chepng’etich, the women’s marathon world record holder, has been temporally suspended after testing positive for Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ).
The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) confirmed that the Kenyan athlete’s sample, collected on 14 March 2025, showed the presence of Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a prohibited diuretic under the World Anti- Doping Code.
A Notice of Charge has since been issued to Chepng’etich following investigations into the matter. According to AIU Head Brett Clothier, “Chepng’etich was notified and interviewed in person by the AIU in Kenya on 16th April and compiled with requests regarding our investigation.”
Although a positive result for diuretics and masking agents does not automatically lead to a provisional suspension, Chepng’etich voluntarily accepted one on 19th April while the AIU continued its investigation. The sample in question was found to contain HCTZ at a concentration of 3800 ng/ml- far exceeding the World Anti Doping Agency’s minimum reportable level of 20 ng/ml.
The AIU stated that HCTZ, while commonly used to treat fluid retention and hypertension, is listed as a class S5 Prohibited Substance because of its potential misuse to mask other drugs. “Diuretics may be abused to mask the presence in urine of other prohibited substances,” noted the press release.
The AIU emphasized that Chepng’etich still retains the right to have her case heard before a Disciplinary Tribunal and that no further comments will be made until proceedings are complete.
