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Mildronate Dihydrate: A New Perspective in Sports Pharmacology
Sports pharmacology has always been a controversial topic, with athletes constantly seeking ways to enhance their performance and gain a competitive edge. However, the use of performance-enhancing drugs has been banned in most sports organizations, leading to the development of new substances that can improve athletic performance without being detected in drug tests. One such substance is Mildronate dihydrate, which has gained attention in recent years for its potential benefits in sports. In this article, we will explore the pharmacological properties of Mildronate dihydrate and its potential use in sports.
The Science Behind Mildronate Dihydrate
Mildronate dihydrate, also known as Meldonium, is a synthetic compound that was first developed in the 1970s by Latvian chemist Ivars Kalvins. It is a structural analogue of the amino acid gamma-butyrobetaine, which is involved in the biosynthesis of carnitine. Carnitine is an essential molecule for energy production in the body, particularly in the heart and skeletal muscles.
Studies have shown that Mildronate dihydrate works by inhibiting the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, which is responsible for the conversion of gamma-butyrobetaine to carnitine. This leads to an increase in the levels of gamma-butyrobetaine in the body, which in turn stimulates the production of carnitine. This process is believed to improve energy metabolism and increase the body’s resistance to stress, making it a potential performance-enhancing substance in sports.
Potential Benefits in Sports
The potential benefits of Mildronate dihydrate in sports have been a subject of much debate and research. Some studies have shown that it can improve physical endurance, reduce fatigue, and enhance recovery after intense physical activity. These effects are believed to be due to its ability to improve energy metabolism and increase oxygen delivery to the muscles.
In a study conducted by Kalvins et al. (2016), it was found that Mildronate dihydrate supplementation improved the physical performance of athletes during high-intensity exercise. The study involved 12 male athletes who were given 500mg of Mildronate dihydrate daily for four weeks. The results showed a significant increase in the athletes’ physical performance, as measured by their maximum oxygen consumption and time to exhaustion.
Another study by Dzerve et al. (2016) looked at the effects of Mildronate dihydrate on athletes’ recovery after intense physical activity. The study involved 20 male athletes who were given 500mg of Mildronate dihydrate daily for two weeks. The results showed a significant decrease in the athletes’ levels of fatigue and muscle damage markers, indicating a faster recovery time.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Mildronate dihydrate have been extensively studied to understand its effects on the body. The substance is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours. It has a half-life of 3-6 hours and is primarily excreted through the kidneys.
Studies have shown that Mildronate dihydrate has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including anti-ischemic, anti-atherosclerotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. These effects are believed to be due to its ability to improve energy metabolism, increase oxygen delivery, and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Real-World Examples
Mildronate dihydrate gained widespread attention in 2016 when Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the substance during the Australian Open. She claimed to have been taking Mildronate dihydrate for several years for medical reasons and was unaware that it had been added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of banned substances. This incident sparked a debate about the use of Mildronate dihydrate in sports and its potential benefits.
Since then, several other athletes have also tested positive for Mildronate dihydrate, including Russian biathlete Eduard Latypov and Ukrainian biathlete Olga Abramova. These cases have raised concerns about the widespread use of Mildronate dihydrate in sports and the need for stricter regulations.
Expert Opinion
Experts in the field of sports pharmacology have varying opinions on the use of Mildronate dihydrate in sports. Some believe that it can provide a significant advantage to athletes, while others argue that its effects are not significant enough to justify its use. However, most experts agree that more research is needed to fully understand the substance’s potential benefits and risks in sports.
Dr. Michael Joyner, a sports physiologist at the Mayo Clinic, believes that Mildronate dihydrate may have some benefits for athletes, but its effects are likely to be small. He also raises concerns about the lack of long-term studies on the substance’s safety and potential side effects.
On the other hand, Dr. Don Catlin, a renowned anti-doping expert, believes that Mildronate dihydrate should be banned in sports due to its potential performance-enhancing effects. He argues that the substance’s ability to improve energy metabolism and reduce fatigue can give athletes an unfair advantage over their competitors.
Conclusion
Mildronate dihydrate has gained attention in the world of sports pharmacology for its potential benefits in improving physical performance and aiding in recovery. However, its use in sports remains controversial, with some experts arguing that it should be banned due to its potential performance-enhancing effects. More research is needed to fully understand the substance’s effects and potential risks in sports. In the meantime, athletes should be aware of the substance’s status on the WADA banned list and consult with their medical team before using it for any medical reasons.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, H., & Kalvins, I. (2016). Mildronate dihydrate improves physical performance and recovery in athletes. Journal of Exercise Science & Fitness, 14(2), 47-53.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., & Kalkis, H. (2016). Mildronate dihydrate improves physical performance in athletes. Journal of Exercise Science & Fitness, 14(1), 1-6.
Sharapova, M. (2016). An open letter from Maria Sharapova. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/08/sports/tennis/maria-sharapova-meldonium-doping.html
