If the facts in Delmar Deb's message are accurate, they indicate how complicated medication issues might get. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that cells produce naturally and that acts as a lubricant in joints.

If someone finds a technique to increase the amount of the lubricant in joints on race day, it's easy to argue that (a) performance will be enhanced, and (b) wear and tear on the horse will be reduced. Based on those facts, do you want to prohibit use of the technique?

Now imagine that the technique is indeed patented, so that only the patent-holder can use it. His trainer clients will clearly have an advantage over others. Is that fair?