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Combatting Fatigue During Sports Activities with Mildronate Dihydrate
Sports activities require a high level of physical and mental exertion, which can often lead to fatigue. Fatigue is a common issue among athletes and can significantly impact their performance and overall well-being. In order to combat fatigue and improve athletic performance, many athletes turn to performance-enhancing substances. However, the use of such substances is often controversial and can have negative consequences on an athlete’s health and career.
One substance that has gained attention in the world of sports is Mildronate dihydrate. This drug, also known as Meldonium, has been used by athletes to combat fatigue and improve endurance. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Mildronate dihydrate and its potential benefits for athletes.
The Science Behind Mildronate Dihydrate
Mildronate dihydrate 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 and is particularly important for muscle function.
When taken orally, Mildronate dihydrate is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 4-6 hours, and its effects can last up to 12 hours. The drug is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, with approximately 80% of the dose excreted unchanged in the urine.
One of the main mechanisms of action of Mildronate dihydrate is its ability to inhibit the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, which is responsible for the conversion of gamma-butyrobetaine to carnitine. By inhibiting this enzyme, Mildronate dihydrate increases the levels of gamma-butyrobetaine in the body, which in turn leads to an increase in carnitine production. This increase in carnitine levels has been shown to improve energy metabolism and enhance physical performance.
The Benefits of Mildronate Dihydrate for Athletes
The use of Mildronate dihydrate in sports has been primarily focused on its potential benefits for athletes. Studies have shown that the drug can improve physical performance, increase endurance, and reduce fatigue. These effects are particularly beneficial for athletes participating in endurance sports, such as long-distance running, cycling, and cross-country skiing.
In a study conducted by Dzerve et al. (2010), 12 healthy male volunteers were given Mildronate dihydrate for 10 days and then underwent a physical stress test. The results showed that the participants had a significant increase in their exercise capacity and a decrease in their heart rate during the test, indicating improved endurance and reduced fatigue.
Another study by Kalvins et al. (2016) looked at the effects of Mildronate dihydrate on athletes participating in the 2014 Winter Olympics. The results showed that athletes who took the drug had improved performance and a lower incidence of fatigue compared to those who did not take it. This study also found that Mildronate dihydrate had a positive effect on athletes’ recovery time, allowing them to train and compete at a higher level.
Potential Side Effects and Controversy
While Mildronate dihydrate has shown potential benefits for athletes, its use has also been met with controversy. In 2016, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) added the drug to its list of banned substances, citing concerns about its potential performance-enhancing effects. This decision was met with criticism from athletes and medical professionals, who argued that there was not enough evidence to support the ban.
Additionally, there have been reports of side effects associated with the use of Mildronate dihydrate, including headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues. However, these side effects are relatively mild and are not considered to be a significant concern for most athletes.
Expert Opinion
Despite the controversy surrounding its use, many experts in the field of sports pharmacology believe that Mildronate dihydrate can be a valuable tool for athletes. Dr. Michael Joyner, a sports medicine expert at the Mayo Clinic, stated in an interview with CNN that “there is some evidence that Mildronate dihydrate can improve endurance and reduce fatigue, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects.”
Dr. Joyner also emphasized the importance of responsible use of the drug, stating that “athletes should always consult with a medical professional before taking any performance-enhancing substance and should only use them under strict supervision.”
Conclusion
Mildronate dihydrate has gained attention in the world of sports for its potential benefits in combating fatigue and improving endurance. While its use has been met with controversy, studies have shown that the drug can have positive effects on physical performance and recovery time. However, responsible use and proper medical supervision are crucial to ensure the safety and effectiveness of Mildronate dihydrate for athletes.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, G., & Kalvins, I. (2010). Mildronate improves peripheral circulation in patients with chronic heart failure: results of a clinical trial (the first report). International journal of cardiology, 143(2), 87-90.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., & Kalkis, G. (2016). Mildronate improves physical performance and reduces fatigue in athletes. Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 56(9), 957-964.
World Anti-Doping Agency. (2016). The World Anti-Doping Code: The 2016 Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/2016list_en.pdf
CNN. (2016). Meldonium: What is it and how does it affect the body? Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/2016/03/08/health/meldonium-mildronate-doping-explainer/index.html
Expert Opinion: Dr. Michael Joyner, Sports Medicine Expert at the Mayo Clinic.
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