I would like to address an issue that over the last sixteen years of being a physician for rodeo I see rarely, but I do see it and it needs to be discussed. 

Drugs that contestants are typically associated with are animal narcotics not associated with those used for human consumption. These types of narcotics are generally used to control pain and to achieve states of euphoria. There are three factors that contribute to the use of illicit drugs among contestants. Primary to the usage is the accessibility to the drugs. Most people associated with rodeo have these types of drugs on hand for the benefit of treating animals under their direct care. Contributing to the human consumption is regional location. What may be uncommon in an urban environment is not necessarily uncommon in a rural one. The rural communities are more likely to have a greater availability as well as, a greater familiarity with drugs used for farm and ranch animals. Finally, the close knit communal living of those who travel the rodeo circuit undoubtedly plays a role in the drug usage. Familiarity and the availability in concern with the need for pain control have given rise to a small, but unhealthy risk shared by those who participate in rodeo events where injury and pain are commonplace.

While this is not a common practice, it is a consideration that is aware among those healthcare professionals engaged in direct care of contestants. The contestants should be aware that the adverse health risks of such consumption can have several damaging affects that may not show up until later in life but they will show up. Contestants should also be aware of the fact that they may be putting their lives at risk do to the adverse reactions possible with the usage of these drugs, not only metabolically but it may throw off a health care providers critical assessments in a life or death situation. If you or if you know of some one who is in this rare group please think about what life would be like if this person were to die and who all would be affected. PLEASE have them stop.