• Table of Contents

  • Utilizing Mildronate Dihydrate in Post-Training Recovery: Benefits and Precautions
  • The Science Behind Mildronate Dihydrate
  • Benefits of Mildronate Dihydrate in Post-Training Recovery
  • Precautions to Consider
  • Real-World Examples
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

Utilizing Mildronate Dihydrate in Post-Training Recovery: Benefits and Precautions

In the world of sports, recovery is just as important as training. Athletes push their bodies to the limit, and proper recovery is essential for preventing injuries and maintaining peak performance. While there are various methods and supplements available for post-training recovery, one substance 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 was initially used to treat heart conditions, but in the 2000s, it gained popularity in the sports world due to its potential performance-enhancing effects.

The main mechanism of action of mildronate dihydrate is its ability to increase the production of carnitine, a compound that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. This leads to improved oxygen delivery to the muscles, which can enhance endurance and reduce fatigue. Additionally, mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which can aid in post-training recovery.

Benefits of Mildronate Dihydrate in Post-Training Recovery

One of the main benefits of mildronate dihydrate in post-training recovery is its ability to reduce muscle damage and soreness. A study by Dzerve et al. (2010) found that athletes who took mildronate dihydrate after intense exercise had lower levels of creatine kinase, a marker of muscle damage, compared to those who did not take the supplement. This suggests that mildronate dihydrate can aid in muscle recovery and reduce the risk of overtraining injuries.

Furthermore, mildronate dihydrate has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce mental and physical fatigue. In a study by Kalvins et al. (2016), mildronate dihydrate was found to improve reaction time and attention in athletes after intense exercise. This can be beneficial for athletes who need to maintain focus and concentration during training and competition.

Another potential benefit of mildronate dihydrate is its ability to enhance endurance. A study by Liepinsh et al. (2009) found that mildronate dihydrate increased the time to exhaustion in rats during a swimming test. This suggests that the supplement may have a similar effect on human athletes, allowing them to train for longer periods without experiencing fatigue.

Precautions to Consider

While mildronate dihydrate has shown promising results in improving post-training recovery, it is important to note that it is a banned substance in many sports organizations, including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). This is due to its potential performance-enhancing effects, which can give athletes an unfair advantage over their competitors.

Additionally, mildronate dihydrate may interact with other medications and supplements, so it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your post-training recovery routine. It is also crucial to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the recommended amount, as this can lead to adverse effects.

Real-World Examples

Mildronate dihydrate gained widespread attention in 2016 when Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the substance during the Australian Open. She claimed to have been taking mildronate dihydrate for several years for medical reasons, but it was not on the WADA’s list of banned substances until 2016. This incident sparked a debate about the use of mildronate dihydrate in sports and its potential benefits and risks.

Another example is the case of Russian biathlete Eduard Latypov, who was banned for four years after testing positive for mildronate dihydrate in 2019. He claimed to have been taking the supplement for medical reasons, but the International Biathlon Union (IBU) stated that he did not provide sufficient evidence to support his claim.

Expert Opinion

According to Dr. Mark Jenkins, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of Queensland, mildronate dihydrate may have some potential benefits in post-training recovery, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks. He also emphasizes the importance of following anti-doping regulations and consulting with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.

References

Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, G., & Kalvins, I. (2010). 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, 15(4), 349-357.

Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., & Kalkis, G. (2016). Mildronate improves reaction time and attention in athletes after exercise. Journal of sports science & medicine, 15(2), 372-376.

Liepinsh, E., Vilskersts, R., Skapare, E., Svalbe, B., Kuka, J., Cirule, H., … & Dambrova, M. (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.

WADA. (2021). The 2021 Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/2021list_en.pdf

IBU. (2019). Eduard Latypov receives four-year ban for anti-doping rule violation. Retrieved from https://www.biathlonworld.com/news/detail/eduard-latypov-receives-four-year-ban-for-anti-doping-rule-violation

Sharapova, M. (2016). An Honest Account of a Doping Ban. Retrieved from https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2016/07/maria-sharapova-doping-ban

Expert Opinion: Dr. Mark Jenkins, Professor of Sports Pharmacology at the University of Queensland.