JAMAICAN sprinter Asafa Powell has played down compatriot Shelley-Ann Fraser’s failed drugs test, claiming it is “not a big deal”.

Olympic and world 100m champion Fraser tested positive for the banned substance oxycodon at May’s Diamond League meeting in Shanghai.

The female world number one has claimed she took the drug as part of a course of medication that was proscribed to treat toothache.

Fraser underwent dental surgery in Jamaica in May, and claims she sought further treatment after the pain returned in Shanghai.

The sprinter withdrew from a scheduled appearance in Lausanne on Thursday night, and will not compete again until her case is heard by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

Powell is part of the same Jamaican training group as Fraser, and the former world record holder, who is competing in this afternoon’s Aviva British Grand Prix at Gateshead International Stadium, was quick to downplay the significance of the test yesterday.

“I heard about it an hour ago because I only woke up then,” said Powell. “I haven’t heard much and I don’t know exactly what it is.

“But I have heard it is not a big deal. I will call her up later today to try to find out some more facts. It’s very sad.”

Last July, five Jamaican athletes failed drug tests at the Jamaican National Championships in Kingston and former American champion Carl Lewis has raised questions about the strength of the Jamaican testing system.

Fraser was part of a Jamaican one-two-three in the 100m at the 2008 Olympic Games, while reigning Olympic and world champion Usain Bolt is also a product of the Jamaican system.

While Fraser has claimed extenuating circumstances led to her failed test, Powell denies that Jamaican athletes are failing to pay enough attention to the IAAF’s list of prohibited substances.

“Everyone has to be careful in this sport, no matter who you are. Any little thing can turn out to be a big thing.”