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The Side Effects of Drostanolone Propionate in Professional Athletes

Drostanolone propionate, also known as Masteron, is a synthetic anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) that has gained popularity among professional athletes for its ability to enhance physical performance and muscle mass. However, like any other AAS, drostanolone propionate comes with potential side effects that can have serious consequences on an athlete’s health. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drostanolone propionate and discuss the potential side effects that athletes should be aware of.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Drostanolone Propionate

Drostanolone propionate is a modified form of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a naturally occurring hormone in the body. It is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States and is only available with a prescription. The drug is typically administered through intramuscular injection and has a half-life of approximately 2-3 days (Kicman, 2008). This means that it can stay in the body for up to 6 days after the last dose.

Like other AAS, drostanolone propionate works by binding to androgen receptors in the body, which leads to an increase in protein synthesis and muscle growth. It also has anti-estrogenic properties, which can help prevent the conversion of testosterone into estrogen, resulting in a leaner and more defined physique (Kicman, 2008).

Side Effects of Drostanolone Propionate

While drostanolone propionate may offer benefits to professional athletes, it also comes with potential side effects that can have serious consequences on their health. These side effects can be classified into two categories: androgenic and estrogenic.

Androgenic Side Effects

As a DHT derivative, drostanolone propionate has a high androgenic activity, which can lead to side effects such as acne, oily skin, and male pattern baldness (Kicman, 2008). These side effects are more common in individuals who are genetically predisposed to them and can be managed with proper skincare and hair care routines.

One of the most concerning androgenic side effects of drostanolone propionate is its potential to cause virilization in female athletes. Virilization refers to the development of male characteristics in women, such as deepening of the voice, increased body hair growth, and clitoral enlargement (Kicman, 2008). These side effects are irreversible and can have a significant impact on a female athlete’s physical and mental well-being.

Estrogenic Side Effects

While drostanolone propionate has anti-estrogenic properties, it can still cause estrogenic side effects in some individuals. This is because the drug can be converted into estrogen through the process of aromatization (Kicman, 2008). Estrogenic side effects of drostanolone propionate may include water retention, gynecomastia (enlargement of breast tissue in men), and an increase in blood pressure (Kicman, 2008).

Other Potential Side Effects

In addition to androgenic and estrogenic side effects, drostanolone propionate can also have other potential side effects that athletes should be aware of. These include liver toxicity, changes in cholesterol levels, and suppression of natural testosterone production (Kicman, 2008). These side effects can have serious consequences on an athlete’s health and should not be taken lightly.

Real-World Examples

The potential side effects of drostanolone propionate have been seen in numerous real-world examples. In 2016, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that Russian weightlifter Apti Aukhadov had tested positive for drostanolone propionate during the 2012 London Olympics (International Olympic Committee, 2016). Aukhadov was stripped of his silver medal and banned from competing for four years.

In another case, American sprinter Tyson Gay tested positive for drostanolone propionate in 2013 and was suspended from competing for one year (Associated Press, 2014). These real-world examples highlight the serious consequences that athletes can face if they choose to use drostanolone propionate or any other AAS.

Expert Opinion

According to Dr. Harrison Pope, a leading expert in the field of sports pharmacology, the use of drostanolone propionate and other AAS by professional athletes is a dangerous trend that needs to be addressed (Pope, 2017). He emphasizes the importance of educating athletes about the potential side effects of these drugs and the long-term consequences they can have on their health.

Dr. Pope also stresses the need for stricter regulations and testing in professional sports to prevent the use of performance-enhancing drugs. He believes that the use of AAS not only gives athletes an unfair advantage but also puts their health at risk.

Conclusion

Drostanolone propionate may offer benefits to professional athletes in terms of physical performance and muscle mass, but it also comes with potential side effects that can have serious consequences on their health. These side effects can range from androgenic and estrogenic effects to liver toxicity and suppression of natural testosterone production. It is crucial for athletes to understand the risks associated with the use of drostanolone propionate and other AAS and to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

References

Associated Press. (2014). Tyson Gay gets 1-year ban for doping. USA Today. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/olympics/2014/06/23/tyson-gay-doping-ban-usada/11289385/

International Olympic Committee. (2016). IOC sanctions two athletes for failing anti-doping tests at London 2012. Olympic.org. Retrieved from https://www.olympic.org/news/ioc-sanctions-two-athletes-for-failing-anti-doping-tests-at-london-2012

Kicman, A. T. (2008). Pharmacology of anabolic steroids. British Journal of Pharmacology, 154(3), 502-521. doi: 10.1038/bjp.2008.165

Pope, H. G. (2017). The use of anabolic-androgenic steroids in sports: A concise review of the literature. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 6(2), 126-131. doi: 10.1016/j.jshs.2016.05.005