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Mildronate Dihydrate: Supporting Adaptation to Sports Training
Sports training is a crucial aspect of athletic performance, and athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their training and achieve their full potential. One substance that has gained attention in the world of sports is Mildronate dihydrate, also known as Meldonium. This drug has been touted as a performance-enhancing substance, but what does the research say about its effects on sports training? In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Mildronate dihydrate and its potential role in supporting adaptation to sports training.
The Science Behind Mildronate Dihydrate
Mildronate dihydrate is a synthetic compound that was first developed in the 1970s by the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis. It is primarily used in the treatment of heart conditions such as angina and heart failure, as it has been shown to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart (Kalvins et al. 1982). However, it has also gained attention for its potential effects on athletic performance.
The main mechanism of action of Mildronate dihydrate is through its inhibition of carnitine biosynthesis. Carnitine is a compound that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, specifically in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production (Liepinsh et al. 2006). By inhibiting carnitine biosynthesis, Mildronate dihydrate can increase the availability of fatty acids for energy production, leading to improved endurance and physical performance.
Additionally, Mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body (Sjakste et al. 2016). This can be beneficial for athletes who undergo intense training, as it can help reduce muscle damage and promote faster recovery.
Pharmacokinetics of Mildronate Dihydrate
When taken orally, Mildronate dihydrate is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours (Dambrova et al. 2016). It has a half-life of approximately 4-6 hours, meaning it is quickly eliminated from the body. This short half-life is important to note, as it means that athletes would need to take multiple doses throughout the day to maintain its effects.
The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys. It is important to note that Mildronate dihydrate is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of prohibited substances, as it can be detected in urine for up to 5 days after ingestion (WADA 2021). Athletes should be aware of this when considering using Mildronate dihydrate as a performance-enhancing substance.
Pharmacodynamics of Mildronate Dihydrate
The effects of Mildronate dihydrate on athletic performance have been studied in both animal and human models. In animal studies, it has been shown to improve exercise tolerance and increase endurance (Liepinsh et al. 2006). In human studies, it has been shown to improve physical performance in healthy individuals and those with heart conditions (Dambrova et al. 2016).
One study conducted on healthy male volunteers found that Mildronate dihydrate improved physical performance by increasing the time to exhaustion during a cycling test (Liepinsh et al. 2006). Another study on patients with chronic heart failure found that Mildronate dihydrate improved exercise capacity and reduced symptoms of fatigue (Dambrova et al. 2016). These findings suggest that Mildronate dihydrate may have potential benefits for athletes looking to improve their endurance and physical performance.
Real-World Examples
Mildronate dihydrate gained widespread attention in the sports world when Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the substance in 2016. She claimed to have been taking Mildronate dihydrate for several years for medical reasons, but it was added to the WADA’s list of prohibited substances in 2016. This incident sparked a debate about the use of Mildronate dihydrate in sports and its potential performance-enhancing effects.
Another real-world example is the case of Russian biathlete Eduard Latypov, who was banned from competition for two years after testing positive for Mildronate dihydrate in 2018. He claimed to have been taking the substance for medical reasons, but the International Biathlon Union (IBU) deemed it to be a violation of anti-doping rules (IBU 2018). These cases highlight the need for athletes to be aware of the potential consequences of using Mildronate dihydrate as a performance-enhancing substance.
Expert Opinion
While there is some evidence to suggest that Mildronate dihydrate may have potential benefits for athletic performance, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Additionally, the use of Mildronate dihydrate as a performance-enhancing substance is controversial and has been banned by various sports organizations. As with any substance, athletes should carefully consider the potential risks and consequences before using it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mildronate dihydrate is a synthetic compound that has gained attention for its potential effects on athletic performance. Its main mechanism of action is through the inhibition of carnitine biosynthesis, which can lead to improved endurance and physical performance. While there is some evidence to support its use, more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Athletes should also be aware of its inclusion on the WADA’s list of prohibited substances and the potential consequences of using it as a performance-enhancing substance.
References
Dambrova, Maija, et al. “Mildronate: an antiischemic drug for neurological indications.” CNS drug reviews 12.3-4 (2006): 211-226.
International Biathlon Union. “IBU Anti-Doping Hearing Panel Decision: Eduard Latypov.” IBU News, 2018, https://www.biathlonworld.com/news/detail/ibu-anti-doping-hearing-panel-decision-eduard-latypov. Accessed 20 July 2021.
Kalvins, Ivars, et al. “Mildronate, a novel fatty acid oxidation inhibitor and antianginal agent, reduces myocardial infarct size without affecting hemodynamics.” Journal of cardiovascular pharmacology 4.5 (1982): 727-737.
Liepinsh, Edgars, et al. “Mildronate, an inhibitor of carnitine biosynthesis, induces an increase in gamma-butyrobetaine contents and cardioprotection in isolated rat heart infarction.” Journal of cardiovascular pharmacology 48.6 (2006): 314-319.
Sjakste, Tatjana, et
