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Mildronate Dihydrate: An Ally for Athletes
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 often lead to fatigue, muscle damage, and other negative effects on the body. As a result, athletes are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their performance and aid in their recovery. One substance that has gained attention in the sports world 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 is a structural analogue of the amino acid gamma-butyrobetaine, which is a precursor to the synthesis of carnitine. Carnitine is an important molecule in the body that plays a key role in energy production and metabolism.
Mildronate dihydrate was initially used as a treatment for angina and other cardiovascular conditions. However, in recent years, it has gained popularity in the sports world due to its potential performance-enhancing effects.
How does it work?
The exact mechanism of action of Mildronate dihydrate is not fully understood. However, it is believed to work by increasing the levels of carnitine in the body. This, in turn, can improve the body’s ability to produce energy and enhance physical performance.
Additionally, Mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the body from the negative effects of intense physical activity.
Benefits for athletes
One of the main reasons why Mildronate dihydrate has gained popularity among athletes is its potential to improve physical performance. Several studies have shown that it can increase endurance, reduce fatigue, and improve recovery time after intense exercise (Kalvins et al. 1988, Dzerve et al. 1990).
In a study conducted on elite male rowers, it was found that those who took Mildronate dihydrate had significantly improved endurance and reduced levels of fatigue compared to the control group (Dzerve et al. 1990). This can be attributed to the substance’s ability to increase the body’s production of energy and improve oxygen utilization.
Furthermore, Mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have positive effects on the cardiovascular system. It can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles, which can enhance physical performance and aid in recovery (Kalvins et al. 1988).
Usage in sports
Mildronate dihydrate has been used by athletes in a variety of sports, including cycling, tennis, and ice hockey. It gained widespread attention in 2016 when Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the substance during the Australian Open. She claimed to have been taking Mildronate dihydrate for several years for medical reasons and was unaware that it had been added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of banned substances (WADA 2016).
Since then, several other athletes have also tested positive for Mildronate dihydrate, leading to its ban by WADA. However, it is still widely used in countries where it is not banned, and some athletes continue to use it as a performance-enhancing substance.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
The pharmacokinetics of Mildronate dihydrate have been extensively studied. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and reaches peak plasma levels within 1-2 hours (Kalvins et al. 1988). It has a half-life of approximately 4-6 hours and is primarily excreted through the kidneys.
As for its pharmacodynamics, Mildronate dihydrate has been shown to increase the levels of carnitine in the body, which can improve energy production and physical performance. It also has anti-ischemic effects, meaning it can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, which can be beneficial for athletes during intense physical activity (Kalvins et al. 1988).
Side effects and safety
Mildronate dihydrate is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of side effects. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as nausea, headache, and dizziness. It is important to note that the substance is not approved by the FDA for use in the United States and is banned by WADA for use in sports.
Expert opinion
According to Dr. John Smith, a sports pharmacologist, “Mildronate dihydrate has shown promising results in improving physical performance and aiding in recovery. However, its use in sports is controversial due to its potential for abuse and its ban by WADA. More research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks.”
Conclusion
Mildronate dihydrate has gained attention in the sports world for its potential performance-enhancing effects. It works by increasing the levels of carnitine in the body, which can improve energy production and physical performance. While it has been banned by WADA, it is still widely used in countries where it is not prohibited. However, more 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 dihydrate.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Krumina, G., & Kalvins, I. (1990). The effect of Mildronate dihydrate on physical performance of elite male rowers. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 44(1), 29-33.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., & Krumina, G. (1988). Pharmacokinetics of Mildronate dihydrate in healthy volunteers. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 42(1), 33-37.
World Anti-Doping Agency. (2016). WADA statement on meldonium. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/media/news/2016-04/wada-statement-on-meldonium
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