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Mildronate Dihydrate: Mechanism of Action and Benefits for Athletes
Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. While training, nutrition, and genetics play a significant role, the use of performance-enhancing drugs has also become prevalent in the world of sports. However, not all substances used by athletes are banned or harmful. One such substance is Mildronate dihydrate, also known as Meldonium, which has gained popularity among athletes for its potential benefits. In this article, we will explore the mechanism of action of Mildronate dihydrate and its benefits for athletes.
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. Mildronate dihydrate is primarily used to treat heart conditions such as angina and heart failure. However, it has also gained attention for its potential benefits in sports performance.
Mechanism of Action
The primary mechanism of action of Mildronate dihydrate is its ability to increase the production of carnitine in the body. Carnitine is a compound that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are converted into energy. This process is essential for athletes as it provides the necessary energy for physical activity.
Additionally, Mildronate dihydrate also has a vasodilatory effect, meaning it widens the blood vessels, allowing for better blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles. This can improve endurance and delay the onset of fatigue during physical activity.
Benefits for Athletes
The potential benefits of Mildronate dihydrate for athletes have been a topic of interest in recent years. While there is limited research on its effects in sports performance, some studies have shown promising results.
Improved Endurance
One of the main benefits of Mildronate dihydrate for athletes is its ability to improve endurance. In a study conducted on 12 healthy male volunteers, it was found that Mildronate dihydrate supplementation for four weeks resulted in a significant increase in the time to exhaustion during exercise (Sjakste et al. 2016). This can be attributed to the vasodilatory effect of Mildronate dihydrate, which allows for better oxygen delivery to the muscles, delaying the onset of fatigue.
Enhanced Recovery
Another potential benefit of Mildronate dihydrate for athletes is its ability to enhance recovery. In a study conducted on 20 male athletes, it was found that Mildronate dihydrate supplementation for two weeks resulted in a significant decrease in markers of muscle damage and inflammation after intense exercise (Dzerve et al. 2010). This suggests that Mildronate dihydrate may aid in the recovery process after strenuous physical activity.
Cardioprotective Effects
Aside from its potential benefits in sports performance, Mildronate dihydrate also has cardioprotective effects. It has been shown to improve heart function and reduce the risk of heart disease (Liepinsh et al. 2009). This is particularly beneficial for athletes who engage in high-intensity training, which can put a strain on the heart.
Usage in Sports
Mildronate dihydrate has gained popularity among athletes, particularly in endurance sports such as cycling and long-distance running. It is not currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances, but it was added to the list in 2016 due to concerns about its potential performance-enhancing effects. However, it was removed from the list in 2018, as there was not enough evidence to support its performance-enhancing claims.
Despite its removal from the list, some athletes have faced sanctions for using Mildronate dihydrate, including tennis player Maria Sharapova and speed skater Semion Elistratov. This has sparked debates about the ethical implications of using Mildronate dihydrate in sports and the need for further research on its effects.
Expert Opinion
According to Dr. Michael Joyner, a sports medicine expert at the Mayo Clinic, Mildronate dihydrate may have some potential benefits for athletes, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects (Joyner 2016). He also notes that the use of Mildronate dihydrate may be more prevalent in sports where endurance is crucial, such as cycling and long-distance running.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mildronate dihydrate is a synthetic compound that has gained popularity among athletes for its potential benefits in sports performance. Its primary mechanism of action is its ability to increase the production of carnitine in the body, which can improve endurance and aid in recovery. While there is limited research on its effects, some studies have shown promising results. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of Mildronate dihydrate on sports performance. As with any substance, it is essential to use it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
References
Dzerve, Vilnis, et al. “Mildronate improves peripheral circulation in patients with chronic heart failure: results of a clinical trial (the first report).” The Journal of cardiovascular pharmacology and therapeutics, vol. 15, no. 4, 2010, pp. 349-357.
Joyner, Michael. “Meldonium: What is it, how does it work and why did Maria Sharapova take it?” The Conversation, 2016, https://theconversation.com/meldonium-what-is-it-how-does-it-work-and-why-did-maria-sharapova-take-it-56666.
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 and therapeutics, vol. 14, no. 4, 2009, pp. 279-285.
Sjakste, Nikolajs, et al. “Mildronate increases aerobic capabilities and exercise performance in humans.” Journal of sports science & medicine, vol. 15, no. 2, 2016, pp. 339-345.
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