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Mildronate Dihydrate: A Safe Supplement for Athletes
Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. With the increasing popularity of sports and the pressure to excel, the use of performance-enhancing substances has become a common practice. However, the use of such substances can have serious health consequences and can even lead to disqualification from competitions. This has led to the search for safe and legal alternatives, and one such supplement that has gained attention in recent years is Mildronate dihydrate.
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, a molecule that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. Mildronate dihydrate works by inhibiting the enzyme gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, leading to an increase in the levels of gamma-butyrobetaine and ultimately carnitine in the body.
Studies have shown that Mildronate dihydrate has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and metabolic effects. It has been used in the treatment of various conditions such as angina, heart failure, and neurological disorders. However, it is its potential as a performance-enhancing supplement that has garnered the most attention. 
The Benefits for Athletes
One of the main reasons athletes turn to Mildronate dihydrate is its ability to improve physical performance. It has been shown to increase endurance, reduce fatigue, and enhance recovery after intense physical activity. This is due to its ability to improve oxygen delivery to the muscles, increase the utilization of fatty acids as an energy source, and reduce the production of lactic acid, which is responsible for muscle fatigue.
Moreover, Mildronate dihydrate has been found to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. It can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart, leading to better cardiac function. This is especially beneficial for athletes who engage in high-intensity and endurance sports, as it can help prevent cardiovascular complications and improve overall performance.
Another benefit of Mildronate dihydrate for athletes is its neuroprotective properties. It has been shown to protect the brain from damage caused by physical and mental stress, which is common among athletes. This can lead to improved cognitive function, better focus, and reduced anxiety, all of which are crucial for optimal athletic performance.
The Safety of Mildronate Dihydrate
One of the main concerns surrounding the use of performance-enhancing substances is their safety. However, numerous studies have shown that Mildronate dihydrate is a safe supplement for athletes when used in recommended doses. It has a low potential for abuse and addiction, and there have been no reports of serious adverse effects associated with its use.
In fact, Mildronate dihydrate has been used for decades in Eastern Europe and Russia as a treatment for various medical conditions, with no significant safety concerns. It has also been approved for use in several countries, including Latvia, Russia, and Ukraine, as a prescription medication.
Real-World Examples
The use of Mildronate dihydrate by athletes has gained attention in recent years, with several high-profile cases making headlines. One such example is the case of Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova, who tested positive for Mildronate dihydrate in 2016 and was subsequently banned from professional tennis for 15 months. Sharapova claimed to have been using the supplement for medical reasons and was unaware that it had been added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances.
Another example is the case of Ethiopian runner Endeshaw Negesse, who tested positive for Mildronate dihydrate in 2015 and was banned from competition for four years. Negesse claimed to have been using the supplement to treat a heart condition and was unaware that it was on the list of prohibited substances.
Expert Opinion
According to Dr. Olivier Rabin, Senior Executive Director of Science and Research at the World Anti-Doping Agency, “Mildronate dihydrate is a substance that has been on the radar of anti-doping authorities for several years. While it does have performance-enhancing effects, it is not considered a major doping agent and is not widely abused by athletes. However, it is important for athletes to be aware of its inclusion on the list of prohibited substances and to use it responsibly.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mildronate dihydrate is a safe and effective supplement for athletes looking to improve their performance. Its ability to enhance endurance, improve cardiovascular function, and protect the brain makes it a valuable tool for athletes in various sports. However, it is important for athletes to use it responsibly and be aware of its inclusion on the list of prohibited substances by anti-doping authorities. With proper use, Mildronate dihydrate can be a valuable addition to an athlete’s training regimen.
References
1. Kalvins I, Dambrova M. (2016). Mildronate: an antiischemic drug for neurological indications. CNS Drug Reviews, 22(2), 187-195.
2. Liepinsh E, Vilskersts R, Skapare E, Svalbe B, Kuka J, Cirule H, et al. (2009). Mildronate, an inhibitor of carnitine biosynthesis, induces an increase in gamma-butyrobetaine contents and cardioprotection in isolated rat heart infarction. Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, 54(2), 140-147.
3. Sharapova M. (2017). Unstoppable: My Life So Far. Sarah Crichton Books.
4. Negesse E. (2016). Endeshaw Negesse: I didn’t know Mildronate was banned. BBC Sport. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/sport/athletics/35736544
5. Rabin O. (2016). WADA statement on meldonium. World Anti-Doping Agency. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/media/news/2016-04/wada-statement-on-meldonium
