ABSTRACT
This chapter has tried to show how the issue of paediatric or adolescent doping is a serious one which merits ethical and legal attention. While the ethical literature on doping rarely considers paediatric populations, it seems that the case that the legitimacy of their pursuance of these products and processes may be thought to fall under the conceptual province of 'Gillick competence' to consent. Erythropoietin (EPO) has been mainly utilized in endurance sports because of its aerobic benefits. There have been a number of high profile examples of individuals testing positive for EPO, as well as accusations that entire cycling teams have been involved in doping practices. In the case of paediatric doping, relevant institutions are clear that the engagement of physicians in the provision of assistance to doping cheats is unprofessional. Another socio-psychological factor to be considered is whether Gillick consent to doping would be properly understood in relation to future addiction.
