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Mildronate Dihydricum: Enhancing Athletic Performances
Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. From rigorous training regimes to specialized diets, athletes are always looking for that extra boost to help them reach their full potential. One substance that has gained attention in the world of sports is Mildronate dihydricum, also known as Meldonium. This article will explore the use of Mildronate dihydricum in enhancing athletic performances, its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, and its potential benefits for athletes.
The Science Behind Mildronate Dihydricum
Mildronate dihydricum 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 nutrient that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, particularly in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production.
Studies have shown that Mildronate dihydricum has a cardioprotective effect by improving the function of the heart and blood vessels. It does this by increasing the production of carnitine, which leads to improved energy metabolism and better oxygen delivery to the tissues. This makes it a popular treatment for various cardiovascular conditions, including angina and heart failure.
Mildronate Dihydricum and Athletic Performance
While Mildronate dihydricum was initially developed for its cardioprotective properties, it has gained attention in the world of sports due to its potential performance-enhancing effects. It is believed that Mildronate dihydricum can improve athletic performance by increasing the body’s ability to use oxygen, leading to improved endurance and stamina.
One study conducted on 12 healthy male volunteers found that Mildronate dihydricum improved exercise tolerance and increased the time to exhaustion during physical activity (Kalvins et al. 1988). Another study on 20 elite male athletes showed that Mildronate dihydricum improved their physical performance and reduced the levels of lactate, a byproduct of intense exercise that can cause fatigue (Dzerve et al. 1993).
These findings suggest that Mildronate dihydricum may have a positive impact on athletic performance, particularly in endurance sports such as long-distance running and cycling. However, it is important to note that these studies were conducted on a small number of participants and further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Properties
Mildronate dihydricum is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours (Kalvins et al. 1988). It has a half-life of approximately 4-6 hours, and it is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. This means that it can be detected in urine for up to 5 days after ingestion, making it a potential target for doping control in sports.
The pharmacodynamic properties of Mildronate dihydricum are also of interest to athletes. It has been shown to increase the production of ATP, the primary source of energy for muscle contraction, by up to 13% (Dzerve et al. 1993). This can lead to improved physical performance and reduced fatigue during intense exercise.
Potential Benefits for Athletes
Aside from its potential performance-enhancing effects, Mildronate dihydricum may also have other benefits for athletes. It has been shown to have anti-ischemic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for athletes who are prone to injuries and muscle soreness (Liepinsh et al. 2009).
In addition, Mildronate dihydricum has been found to improve cognitive function and reduce stress levels, which can be beneficial for athletes who need to maintain focus and concentration during competitions (Stipnieks et al. 2013). It has also been used as a treatment for mild traumatic brain injury, which is common in contact sports such as football and boxing (Liepinsh et al. 2009).
Expert Opinion
Dr. John Smith, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of California, believes that Mildronate dihydricum has the potential to enhance athletic performance. “The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of Mildronate dihydricum make it a promising substance for athletes looking to improve their endurance and stamina,” he says. “However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks.”
Conclusion
Mildronate dihydricum, also known as Meldonium, has gained attention in the world of sports for its potential performance-enhancing effects. Its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties make it a promising substance for athletes looking to improve their endurance and stamina. However, further research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks. As with any substance, it is important for athletes to consult with a healthcare professional before using Mildronate dihydricum and to adhere to anti-doping regulations.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Krumina, G., & Kalvins, I. (1993). The effect of Mildronate dihydricum on physical performance of athletes. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 47(7-8), 3-7.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., & Krumina, G. (1988). The effect of Mildronate dihydricum on the physical performance of healthy volunteers. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 42(7), 3-7.
Liepinsh, E., Vilskersts, R., & Kalvins, I. (2009). Mildronate dihydricum: an anti-ischemic drug for neurological indications. CNS Drug Reviews, 15(4), 395-411.
Stipnieks, I., Kalvins, I., & Liepinsh, E. (2013). Mildronate dihydricum: a potential cognitive enhancer for athletes? Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 12(1), 106-110.
