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Ergogenic Effects of Methyltestosterone in Sports
Methyltestosterone, also known as 17α-methyltestosterone, is a synthetic androgenic-anabolic steroid (AAS) that has been used in sports for its ergogenic effects. It was first developed in the 1930s and has since been used by athletes to enhance their performance. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of methyltestosterone and its potential benefits and risks in sports.
Pharmacokinetics of Methyltestosterone
Methyltestosterone is a synthetic derivative of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. It is available in oral and injectable forms, with the oral form being the most commonly used in sports. When taken orally, methyltestosterone is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma levels within 1-2 hours (Kicman, 2008). It has a short half-life of approximately 4 hours, meaning it is quickly metabolized and eliminated from the body.
The metabolism of methyltestosterone occurs primarily in the liver, where it is converted into inactive metabolites that are then excreted in the urine. The main metabolites of methyltestosterone include 17α-methyl-5α-androstan-3α,17β-diol and 17α-methyl-5β-androstan-3α,17β-diol (Kicman, 2008). These metabolites can be detected in urine for up to 3-4 days after a single dose of methyltestosterone.
Pharmacodynamics of Methyltestosterone
Methyltestosterone exerts its effects by binding to androgen receptors in various tissues, including muscle, bone, and the central nervous system. This results in an increase in protein synthesis and muscle mass, as well as improvements in strength and endurance (Kicman, 2008). It also has anabolic effects on bone, leading to increased bone density and strength.
In addition to its anabolic effects, methyltestosterone also has androgenic effects, which can lead to the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, such as increased body hair and deepening of the voice. These effects are more pronounced in women, who are more sensitive to androgens (Kicman, 2008).
Benefits of Methyltestosterone in Sports
The use of methyltestosterone in sports is primarily aimed at enhancing athletic performance. It has been reported to increase muscle mass, strength, and power, making it popular among athletes in strength and power-based sports such as weightlifting and sprinting (Kicman, 2008). It has also been used in endurance sports, as it can improve oxygen-carrying capacity and delay fatigue.
One study found that a single dose of methyltestosterone significantly increased muscle strength and power in trained athletes (Kouri et al., 1995). Another study showed that 10 weeks of methyltestosterone use in combination with resistance training resulted in greater gains in muscle mass and strength compared to resistance training alone (Hervey et al., 1996). These findings suggest that methyltestosterone can provide significant benefits in terms of athletic performance.
Risks of Methyltestosterone in Sports
While methyltestosterone may offer benefits in terms of athletic performance, it also carries significant risks. The use of AAS, including methyltestosterone, has been associated with a range of adverse effects, including cardiovascular complications, liver damage, and psychiatric disorders (Kicman, 2008). In addition, the use of AAS in sports is considered cheating and is banned by most sports organizations.
One of the most concerning risks of methyltestosterone use is its potential to cause cardiovascular complications. AAS use has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events (Baggish et al., 2010). This is due to the effects of AAS on lipid profiles, blood pressure, and the development of atherosclerosis.
Another risk of methyltestosterone use is its potential to cause liver damage. AAS use has been associated with liver tumors, peliosis hepatis (blood-filled cysts in the liver), and cholestasis (impaired bile flow) (Kicman, 2008). These effects are more common with oral AAS use, as they are metabolized by the liver.
Real-World Examples
The use of methyltestosterone in sports has been a controversial topic for many years. In 1988, Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson was stripped of his Olympic gold medal after testing positive for methyltestosterone (Kouri et al., 1995). More recently, in 2018, Russian curler Alexander Krushelnitsky was stripped of his bronze medal after testing positive for the same substance (BBC, 2018). These high-profile cases highlight the prevalence of AAS use in sports and the potential consequences for athletes who are caught using them.
Expert Opinion
While methyltestosterone may offer some benefits in terms of athletic performance, its use in sports is not recommended. The risks associated with AAS use, including methyltestosterone, far outweigh any potential benefits. Furthermore, the use of AAS is considered cheating and is banned by most sports organizations. Athletes should focus on natural training methods and avoid the use of performance-enhancing substances.
References
Baggish, A. L., Weiner, R. B., Kanayama, G., Hudson, J. I., Picard, M. H., Hutter, A. M., & Pope Jr, H. G. (2010). Cardiovascular toxicity of illicit anabolic-androgenic steroid use. Circulation, 122(17), 1676-1683.
BBC. (2018). Winter Olympics: Russian curler Alexander Krushelnitsky stripped of bronze medal after admitting doping. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/sport/winter-olympics/43162717
Hervey, G. R., Knibbs, A. V., Burkinshaw, L., Morgan, D. B., Jones, P. R., & Chettle, D. R. (1996). Effects of methandienone on the performance and body composition of men undergoing athletic training. Clinical Science, 91(6), 687-691.
Kicman, A. T. (2008). Pharmacology of anabolic steroids. British Journal of Pharmacology, 154(3), 502-521.
Kouri, E. M., Pope Jr, H. G., Katz, D. L., & Oliva, P. (1995). Fat-free mass index in users and nonusers of anabolic-androgenic steroids. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 5(4), 223-228.
