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The Effects of Mildronate Dihydrate on Athletes’ Cardiovascular System
In the world of sports, athletes are constantly pushing their bodies to the limit in order to achieve peak performance. This intense physical activity can take a toll on the body, particularly on the cardiovascular system. As a result, many athletes turn to performance-enhancing drugs to improve their endurance and overall performance. One such drug that has gained attention in recent years is mildronate dihydrate.
What is 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 was originally intended to treat heart conditions such as angina and heart failure, but it has gained popularity among athletes for its potential performance-enhancing effects.
The drug works by inhibiting the production of carnitine, a compound that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. By doing so, mildronate dihydrate increases the body’s ability to use oxygen, leading to improved endurance and stamina.
Effects on the Cardiovascular System
One of the main reasons why mildronate dihydrate has gained popularity among athletes is its potential to improve cardiovascular function. Studies have shown that the drug can increase blood flow to the heart, leading to improved oxygen delivery and better overall cardiac function (Sjakste et al. 2016).
Furthermore, mildronate dihydrate has been found to have a protective effect on the heart, reducing the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular events. This is due to its ability to improve the function of the heart muscle and reduce oxidative stress (Liepinsh et al. 2010).
In addition, mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have a positive impact on blood pressure. It has been found to lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, making it a potential treatment for hypertension (Klusa et al. 2004).
Performance-Enhancing Effects
Aside from its cardiovascular benefits, mildronate dihydrate has also been touted for its performance-enhancing effects. It has been found to improve endurance and stamina, allowing athletes to train harder and longer without experiencing fatigue (Dzerve et al. 2010).
Moreover, mildronate dihydrate has been shown to increase the body’s ability to use oxygen, leading to improved aerobic capacity. This can be especially beneficial for endurance athletes, such as long-distance runners and cyclists (Sjakste et al. 2016).
Some studies have also suggested that mildronate dihydrate can improve cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue, making it a potential aid for athletes who need to maintain focus and concentration during long training sessions or competitions (Liepinsh et al. 2010).
Controversy and Regulation
Despite its potential benefits, mildronate dihydrate has been a subject of controversy in the world of sports. In 2016, Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the drug and was subsequently banned from professional tennis for 15 months (WADA 2016).
Since then, mildronate dihydrate has been added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of prohibited substances. This has led to a decrease in its use among athletes, as they risk facing penalties and sanctions if caught using the drug (WADA 2021).
Expert Opinion
While mildronate dihydrate may have potential benefits for athletes, it is important to note that its use is still controversial and regulated in the world of sports. As with any performance-enhancing drug, there are risks and potential side effects that athletes should consider before using it.
Furthermore, the long-term effects of mildronate dihydrate on the cardiovascular system are still not fully understood. More research is needed to determine its safety and efficacy, particularly in the context of athletic performance.
As an experienced researcher in the field of sports pharmacology, I believe that mildronate dihydrate should be used with caution and under the supervision of a medical professional. Athletes should also be aware of the potential risks and consequences of using the drug, both in terms of their health and their athletic career.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, G., et al. (2010). Mildronate improves peripheral circulation in patients with chronic heart failure: results of a clinical trial (the first report). Cardiology, 115(2), 130-138.
Klusa, V., Beitnere, U., Pupure, J., et al. (2004). Influence of mildronate on the pharmacokinetics of digoxin in patients with chronic heart failure. European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 21(1), 75-80.
Liepinsh, E., Vilskersts, R., Skapare, E., et al. (2010). Mildronate, an inhibitor of carnitine biosynthesis, induces an increase in gamma-butyrobetaine contents and cardioprotection in isolated rat heart infarction. Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, 56(2), 145-150.
Sjakste, N., Gutcaits, A., Kalvinsh, I., et al. (2016). Mildronate: an antiischemic drug for neurological indications. Current Neuropharmacology, 14(4), 395-402.
WADA. (2016). Tennis Anti-Doping Programme statement regarding Maria Sharapova. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/media/news/2016-03/tennis-anti-doping-programme-statement-regarding-maria-sharapova
WADA. (2021). The 2021 Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/resources/science-medicine/prohibited-list-documents
