The likelihood of a metabolic breakdown product of methadone being absorbed by a horse orally and flagging at a significant threshold is absolutely ridiculous. Also given the differences in volume of distribution between a 1200-1400 lb horse vs a 200 lb human makes this so unlikely that the plausibility of this for a legal defense is foolish. This is an excuse given by the “management” to justify finding a positive. In this day and age of opioid hypersensitivity, this should be reported to DEA for investigation. This excuse is accepted by layman, because most of the public do not understand pharmacology, pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics. Horse was given a dose of methadone, which would have to be adjusted for route of administration and volume of distribution. May have been done without trainer’s knowledge. But the excuse of the drug addict groom urinating in a stall, has gone the way of the Easter bunny. More likely, commission/ tracks don’t want a costly legal battle that gives racing a black eye. Should be further investigated by federal authorities.
