The three types of drugs commonly used in sports--therapeutic drugs, performance-enhancing drugs, and recreational drugs--have been discussed and presented in a way that should be helpful to health care providers dealing with athletes. The goal of this article has been not only to present information concerning drugs but also to raise the awareness level so that abuse of all types of drugs will be considered by athletic trainers, physicians, and health care providers when they deal with athletes. The role of the physician in the area of drug abuse is no different than the physician's role in dealing with any health problem, diagnosis, and management. The responsibility of the physician who deals with athletes always has been, is, and always will be the health and safety of the athlete.