Trainer Gerald Butler has been provisionally suspended by the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit for possession of the banned substance levothyroxine.
Levothyroxine, a thyroid supplement and synthetic version of a hormone called thyroxine, was banned by HIWU after years of overuse in the racing industry. Thyroid hormones promote oxygen consumption, regulate the synthesis of many proteins, control the body’s heat production and stimulate metabolism.
Trade or generic names for Levothyroxine include Thyro-Tabs, ThyroKare, Tirosint, Ermeza, Euthyrox, Levolet, Synthroid, Levoxyl, and Unithroid.
A study on supplemental thyroxine appeared in the May 2022 issue of the Equine Veterinary Journal. The study linked supplemental thyroxine use to heart arrhythmias and concluded that the supplement may also be a contributing factor to bone fractures.
Butler’s case has yet to be heard by HIWU’s Internal Affairs Panel. He faces a suspension of up to two years and a $25,000 fine after the case is reviewed by the IAP and a federal administrative law judge.
The violation was first posted to the HIWU website on August 15 against Butler. The coach is also accused of violating Rule 3216(d) with two counts of retaliation and menacing/threatening.
Under HIWU regulations, Butler is not allowed to train or field any of his horses while the trainer is serving a provisional suspension.
Butler, a trainer who has competed in many races, has six horses running on August 17 at FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing.
