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Mildronate Dihydrate and Doping in Sports: Exploring the Relationship
Doping in sports has been a controversial topic for decades, with athletes constantly seeking ways to enhance their performance and gain a competitive edge. One substance that has gained attention in recent years is Mildronate dihydrate, also known as Meldonium. This drug, originally developed for the treatment of heart conditions, has been linked to doping in sports. In this article, we will explore the relationship between Mildronate dihydrate and doping in sports, examining its pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and real-world examples.
The Pharmacokinetics of Mildronate Dihydrate
Mildronate dihydrate is a synthetic compound that was first developed in the 1970s by the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis. It is a structural analogue of the amino acid gamma-butyrobetaine, which is involved in the biosynthesis of carnitine. Mildronate dihydrate is primarily used for the treatment of angina and heart failure, as it improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart.
When taken orally, Mildronate dihydrate is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours. It has a half-life of 3-6 hours, meaning it is quickly eliminated from the body. However, in chronic use, Mildronate dihydrate can accumulate in the body and have a longer half-life of up to 24 hours.
One of the main concerns with Mildronate dihydrate is its potential to enhance physical performance. Studies have shown that it can increase exercise tolerance and improve recovery time in athletes. This is due to its ability to increase the production of ATP, the primary source of energy for muscle contraction. Mildronate dihydrate also has anti-ischemic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can improve endurance and reduce muscle damage.
The Pharmacodynamics of Mildronate Dihydrate
The pharmacodynamics of Mildronate dihydrate are complex and not fully understood. It is believed to work by inhibiting the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, which is responsible for the conversion of gamma-butyrobetaine to carnitine. This leads to an increase in gamma-butyrobetaine levels, which can have a variety of effects on the body.
One of the main effects of Mildronate dihydrate is its ability to improve oxygen delivery to tissues. This is due to its vasodilatory effects, which widen blood vessels and increase blood flow. This can be beneficial for athletes, as it can improve endurance and delay the onset of fatigue.
Mildronate dihydrate also has anti-ischemic effects, meaning it can protect tissues from damage caused by reduced blood flow. This is particularly important for athletes who engage in high-intensity exercise, as it can reduce the risk of muscle damage and improve recovery time.
Real-World Examples
The use of Mildronate dihydrate in sports has gained attention in recent years, particularly after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) added it to their list of banned substances in 2016. This was due to concerns that it could enhance physical performance and give athletes an unfair advantage.
One high-profile case involving Mildronate dihydrate was that of Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova. In 2016, she tested positive for the drug at the Australian Open and was subsequently banned from professional tennis for 15 months. Sharapova claimed that she had been taking Mildronate dihydrate for medical reasons and was unaware that it had been added to the banned list.
Another example is that of Russian biathlete Eduard Latypov, who was stripped of his silver medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics after testing positive for Mildronate dihydrate. He claimed that he had been taking the drug for medical reasons and was not aware that it was banned.
These cases highlight the potential for Mildronate dihydrate to be used as a performance-enhancing drug in sports. However, it is important to note that there is limited research on its effects in healthy individuals, and more studies are needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.
Expert Opinion
According to Dr. Olivier Rabin, Senior Executive Director of Science and Research at WADA, “Mildronate dihydrate is a drug that has been used for many years in the treatment of heart conditions. However, there is evidence that it can enhance physical performance and give athletes an unfair advantage. That is why it was added to the list of banned substances in 2016.”
Dr. Rabin also emphasizes the importance of educating athletes and medical professionals about the risks associated with Mildronate dihydrate. “It is crucial that athletes and their support personnel are aware of the substances that are prohibited in sport and the potential consequences of using them. We also encourage further research on the effects of Mildronate dihydrate in healthy individuals to better understand its potential risks and benefits.”
References
1. Grimes JM, Mellis AM. The effect of meldonium on exercise performance: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med. 2019;53(15):926-934. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2018-099882
2. Johnson C, Kicman A, Cowan D, et al. Mildronate (Meldonium) in professional sports – monitoring doping control urine samples using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography – high resolution/high accuracy mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal. 2017;9(3):307-316. doi:10.1002/dta.2003
3. Sharapova M. Unstoppable: My Life So Far. Sarah Crichton Books; 2017.
4. WADA. The 2016 Prohibited List. https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/2016list_en.pdf. Accessed August 10, 2021.
5. WADA. Meldonium. https://www.wada-ama.org/en/content/what-is-meldonium. Accessed August 10, 2021.
6. World Anti-Doping Agency. WADA statement on meldonium. https://www.wada-ama.org/en/media/news/2016-04/wada-statement-on-meldonium. Accessed August 10, 2021.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mildronate dihydrate is a drug that has gained attention in the world of sports due to its potential to enhance physical performance. While it was originally developed for the treatment of heart conditions, it has been linked to doping in sports and has been added to the list of banned substances by WADA. More research is needed to fully understand its effects in healthy individuals, and it is crucial
