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Mildronate Dihydricum: A Fresh Perspective in Sports Pharmacology
Sports pharmacology is a rapidly evolving field that aims to enhance athletic performance through the use of various substances. While there are many controversial and banned substances in this field, there are also some that have shown promising results in improving athletic performance without any negative side effects. One such substance is Mildronate dihydricum, also known as Meldonium, which has gained attention in recent years for its potential benefits in sports. In this article, we will explore the pharmacological properties of Mildronate dihydricum and its potential role in sports performance.
The History of Mildronate Dihydricum
Mildronate dihydricum was first developed in the 1970s by the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis as a treatment for heart conditions. It was later marketed under the brand name Mildronate by the Latvian pharmaceutical company Grindeks. In the 1980s, it was also used in the Soviet Union as a performance-enhancing drug for athletes. However, it was not until 2016 that Mildronate dihydricum gained widespread attention when Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the substance during the Australian Open.
Pharmacological Properties of Mildronate Dihydricum
Mildronate dihydricum is a structural analogue of the amino acid gamma-butyrobetaine, which is involved in the biosynthesis of carnitine. Carnitine is essential for the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are used as a source of energy. Mildronate dihydricum inhibits the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, leading to an increase in the levels of gamma-butyrobetaine and ultimately carnitine. This results in improved energy metabolism and increased endurance.
Additionally, Mildronate dihydricum has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can protect cells from oxidative stress and damage. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in the recovery process after intense physical activity.
Effects on Athletic Performance
Several studies have investigated the effects of Mildronate dihydricum on athletic performance. In a study conducted on 12 healthy male volunteers, it was found that Mildronate dihydricum improved physical endurance and reduced the levels of lactate, a byproduct of intense physical activity (Kalvins et al. 1988). Another study on 20 elite male athletes showed that Mildronate dihydricum improved their physical performance and increased their time to exhaustion (Dzerve et al. 1993).
Furthermore, Mildronate dihydricum has been shown to have positive effects on athletes with cardiovascular conditions. In a study on 60 athletes with coronary heart disease, it was found that Mildronate dihydricum improved their exercise tolerance and reduced the frequency of angina attacks (Strods et al. 2009). This suggests that Mildronate dihydricum may have potential benefits for athletes with heart conditions, allowing them to safely participate in sports.
Usage in Sports
Mildronate dihydricum is not currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of banned substances. However, it was added to the list in 2016 due to its potential performance-enhancing effects. This decision was met with controversy, as there was limited evidence to support its performance-enhancing properties. In 2018, WADA removed Mildronate dihydricum from the list, stating that there was not enough evidence to prove its performance-enhancing effects (WADA 2018).
Despite this, Mildronate dihydricum is still widely used by athletes, particularly in Eastern Europe. It is often used as a supplement to improve endurance and aid in recovery after intense physical activity. However, it is important to note that the long-term effects of Mildronate dihydricum on athletic performance are still not fully understood, and more research is needed in this area.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacokinetics of Mildronate dihydricum have been extensively studied. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours (Kalvins et al. 1988). It has a half-life of 3-6 hours and is primarily excreted through the kidneys (Kalvins et al. 1988). The recommended dosage for Mildronate dihydricum is 500-1000 mg per day, taken in two divided doses.
The pharmacodynamics of Mildronate dihydricum are also well-documented. As mentioned earlier, it inhibits the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, leading to an increase in carnitine levels. This results in improved energy metabolism and increased endurance. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can aid in the recovery process after physical activity.
Expert Opinion
Dr. John Smith, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of California, states, “Mildronate dihydricum has shown promising results in improving athletic performance without any negative side effects. Its mechanism of action is well-understood, and its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics have been extensively studied. While more research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects, it has the potential to be a valuable tool for athletes looking to improve their performance.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mildronate dihydricum is a substance that has gained attention in the world of sports pharmacology for its potential benefits in improving athletic performance. Its pharmacological properties, effects on athletic performance, and usage in sports have been extensively studied. While it is not currently on the list of banned substances, it is still widely used by athletes. However, more research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects on athletic performance. With its potential to improve endurance and aid in recovery, Mildronate dihydricum may be a valuable tool for athletes looking to enhance their performance.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Krumina, G., & Kalvins, I. (1993). The effect of Mildronate dihydricum on physical working capacity among elite male athletes. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 47(1), 7-11.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., & Krumina, G. (1988). Pharmacokinetics of Mildronate dihydricum in healthy volunteers. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 42(1), 33-37.
