WADA signs deal with US drug maker to share information on substances that could be misused

The World Anti-Doping Agency has signed a deal with a leading U.S.-based drug maker to share information about new performance-enhancing substances that could be misused by athletes.

WADA says Wednesday that the "long-term global agreement" with Pfizer, whose headquarters are in New York, allows the company to provide details about products that have a "probable or high risk of abuse in sport." In return, WADA will exchange information with Pfizer on substances that are being abused by athletes.

The deal is WADA's latest collaboration with pharmaceutical companies to help catch drug cheats, following an agreement with British company GlaxoSmithKline ahead of the London Olympics in 2012.

WADA director general David Howman says the agreement comes at a "crucial time" because the 2015 World Anti-Doping Code will soon be introduced.