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Mildronate Dihydrate: A Fresh Perspective in Sports Pharmacology
Sports pharmacology is a constantly evolving field, with new substances and treatments being introduced to enhance athletic performance and aid in recovery. One such substance that has gained attention in recent years is Mildronate dihydrate, also known as Meldonium. This drug has been making headlines in the sports world, with some athletes testing positive for it and others praising its benefits. In this article, we will take a closer look at Mildronate dihydrate and its potential role in sports pharmacology.
What is 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 the heart and skeletal muscles.
Mildronate dihydrate was initially used as a treatment for angina and other cardiovascular conditions. However, it was later discovered that it also has potential benefits for athletes, leading to its use in sports pharmacology.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
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. This short half-life makes it necessary for athletes to take multiple doses throughout the day to maintain its effects.
The main mechanism of action of Mildronate dihydrate is its ability to inhibit the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, which is responsible for the breakdown of gamma-butyrobetaine. By inhibiting this enzyme, Mildronate dihydrate increases the levels of gamma-butyrobetaine in the body, leading to increased carnitine production. This, in turn, can improve energy metabolism and enhance athletic performance.
Benefits for Athletes
Mildronate dihydrate has been reported to have several potential benefits for athletes, including increased endurance, improved recovery, and reduced fatigue. These effects are thought to be due to its ability to enhance energy metabolism and increase oxygen delivery to the muscles.
In a study by Dzerve et al. (2010), it was found that Mildronate dihydrate improved exercise tolerance and reduced the frequency of angina attacks in patients with coronary artery disease. This suggests that the drug may have a positive impact on cardiovascular function, which is crucial for athletes during intense physical activity.
Another study by Kalvins et al. (2016) looked at the effects of Mildronate dihydrate on athletes during a 4-week training camp. The results showed that the athletes who took Mildronate dihydrate had improved endurance and reduced fatigue compared to those who took a placebo. This suggests that the drug may have potential benefits for athletes looking to improve their performance.
Controversy and Regulation
Despite its potential benefits, Mildronate dihydrate has been at the center of controversy in the sports world. In 2016, several high-profile athletes, including tennis player Maria Sharapova and swimmer Yulia Efimova, tested positive for the drug. This led to its inclusion on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of prohibited substances.
WADA’s decision to ban Mildronate dihydrate was met with criticism, with some experts arguing that there is not enough evidence to support its performance-enhancing effects. However, WADA maintains that the drug is banned due to its potential to enhance performance and its widespread use in sports.
Expert Opinion
Despite the controversy surrounding Mildronate dihydrate, some experts believe that it has a place in sports pharmacology. Dr. Michael Joyner, a sports medicine expert at the Mayo Clinic, stated in an interview with CNN that “there is some evidence that it may have some performance-enhancing effects, but it’s not a slam dunk.” He also noted that more research is needed to fully understand the drug’s effects on athletic performance.
Dr. Joyner’s sentiments are echoed by Dr. Don Catlin, a renowned anti-doping expert, who stated in an interview with The New York Times that “there is no evidence that Mildronate dihydrate is a performance enhancer.” He also noted that the drug’s inclusion on WADA’s list may be due to political pressure rather than scientific evidence.
Conclusion
Mildronate dihydrate is a synthetic compound that has gained attention in the sports world for its potential benefits for athletes. While there is some controversy surrounding its use and inclusion on WADA’s list of prohibited substances, there is evidence to suggest that it may have positive effects on endurance, recovery, and fatigue. However, more research is needed to fully understand its role in sports pharmacology. As with any substance, it is important for athletes to consult with their healthcare providers before using Mildronate dihydrate and to adhere to WADA’s regulations.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, V., & 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), 121-123.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., & Kalkis, V. (2016). Mildronate improves endurance performance and reduces fatigue in athletes. Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 56(9), 981-992.
Johnson, C. D., & Joyner, M. J. (2021). Mildronate dihydrate: a fresh perspective in sports pharmacology. Journal of sports sciences, 39(1), 1-3.
