Citation

Birzniece V. Intern. Med. J. 2014; 45(3): 239-248.

Affiliation

School of Medicine, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/imj.12629

PMID

25369881

Abstract

Doping in sport is a widespread problem not just among elite athletes, but even more so in recreational sports. In scientific literature, major emphasis is placed on doping detection, whereas detrimental effects of doping agents on athlete's health are seldom discussed. Androgenic anabolic steroids are well known for their positive effects on muscle mass and strength. Human growth hormone also increases muscle mass, although majority of that is an increase in extracellular fluid and not the functional muscle mass. In recreational athletes, growth hormone does not have major effect on muscle strength, power or aerobic capacity, but stimulates anaerobic exercise capacity. Erythropoietin administration increases oxygen carrying capacity of blood improving endurance measures, whereas systemic administration of beta-adrenergic agonists may have positive effect on sprint capacity, and beta-adrenergic antagonists reduce muscle tremor. Thus, there are certain drugs that can improve selective aspects of physical performance. However, most of the doping agents exert serious side effects, especially when used in combination, at high doses, and for long duration. The extent of long-term health consequences is difficult to predict but likely to be substantial, especially when gene doping is considered. This review summarises main groups of doping agents used by athletes, with main focus on their effects on athletic performance and adverse effects.

Language: en