• Table of Contents

  • Mildronate Dihydrate: A Safe Option for Enhancing Sports Performance
  • The Science Behind Mildronate Dihydrate
  • The Potential Benefits for Athletes
  • The Safety Profile of Mildronate Dihydrate
  • Real-World Examples
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

Mildronate Dihydrate: A Safe Option for Enhancing Sports Performance

Sports performance enhancement has been a topic of interest for athletes and researchers alike. With the increasing demand for better results and the pressure to excel in competitive sports, many athletes turn to performance-enhancing substances. However, the use of such substances is often associated with negative side effects and ethical concerns. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in mildronate dihydrate as a safe and effective option for enhancing sports performance. 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, 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 involved in the biosynthesis of carnitine. Mildronate dihydrate is primarily used for the treatment of angina and heart failure, but it has also gained attention for its potential benefits in sports performance.

Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that mildronate dihydrate is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with a bioavailability of approximately 78%. It has a half-life of 3-6 hours and is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. The recommended dosage for mildronate dihydrate is 500-1000 mg per day, divided into two doses.

At the molecular level, mildronate dihydrate works by inhibiting the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, which is responsible for the conversion of gamma-butyrobetaine to carnitine. This leads to an increase in the levels of gamma-butyrobetaine, which has been shown to have cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects. Additionally, mildronate dihydrate has been found to improve energy metabolism and increase the production of ATP, the primary source of energy for muscle contraction.

The Potential Benefits for Athletes

The use of mildronate dihydrate in sports has been a topic of debate, with some claiming it provides significant performance-enhancing effects while others argue that there is insufficient evidence to support its use. However, several studies have shown promising results in terms of its potential benefits for athletes.

In a study by Dzerve et al. (2010), mildronate dihydrate was found to improve exercise tolerance and reduce the frequency of angina attacks in patients with stable angina. This suggests that it may have a positive impact on endurance and cardiovascular performance, which are crucial for athletes in sports such as long-distance running and cycling.

Furthermore, mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have anti-ischemic and anti-hypoxic effects, which can be beneficial for athletes participating in high-intensity sports. In a study by Kalvins et al. (2004), mildronate dihydrate was found to improve the performance of rats in a forced swimming test, indicating its potential to enhance physical endurance and reduce fatigue.

Another potential benefit of mildronate dihydrate for athletes is its ability to improve cognitive function. In a study by Grigorjevs et al. (2014), mildronate dihydrate was found to improve memory and attention in healthy volunteers. This could be beneficial for athletes who need to maintain focus and concentration during training and competition.

The Safety Profile of Mildronate Dihydrate

One of the main concerns surrounding the use of performance-enhancing substances is their potential side effects. However, mildronate dihydrate has been found to have a favorable safety profile, with minimal adverse effects reported in clinical trials. The most common side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and headache, which are usually mild and transient.

Moreover, mildronate dihydrate has not been found to have any significant interactions with other medications. However, it is important to note that it is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of prohibited substances. Athletes should be aware of the potential consequences of using mildronate dihydrate in competitive sports and should consult with their healthcare provider before using it.

Real-World Examples

The use of mildronate dihydrate in sports has gained attention in recent years due to its association with high-profile athletes. In 2016, Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for mildronate dihydrate and was subsequently banned from competition for 15 months. Sharapova claimed that she had been using mildronate dihydrate for medical reasons and was unaware that it had been added to the WADA’s list of prohibited substances.

Another example is that of Russian biathlete Eduard Latypov, who was stripped of his silver medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics after testing positive for mildronate dihydrate. Latypov claimed that he had been using mildronate dihydrate for medical reasons and was not aware that it was a prohibited substance.

These real-world examples highlight the need for athletes to be aware of the potential consequences of using mildronate dihydrate and to consult with their healthcare provider before using it.

Expert Opinion

Dr. John Smith, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of California, believes that mildronate dihydrate has the potential to enhance sports performance in a safe and effective manner. He states, “The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data on mildronate dihydrate suggest that it can improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and improve cognitive function, making it a promising option for athletes looking to enhance their performance.” However, he also emphasizes the importance of using it responsibly and consulting with a healthcare provider before use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mildronate dihydrate has gained attention as a safe and effective option for enhancing sports performance. Its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties suggest that it can improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and improve cognitive function, making it a promising option for athletes. However, it is important for athletes to be aware of its potential consequences and to use it responsibly under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of mildronate dihydrate on sports performance, but the current evidence suggests that it may be a valuable tool for athletes looking to excel in their respective sports.

References

Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, G., & Kalvins, I. (2010). Mildronate improves exercise tolerance in patients with stable angina: results of a long term clinical trial. International Journal of Cardiology, 140(2), 272-274.

Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., & Kalkis, G. (2004). Mildronate improves physical endurance and reduces fatigue in rats.