-
Table of Contents
Safety of Drostanolone Enanthate in Sports Use
Drostanolone enanthate, also known as Masteron, is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that has gained popularity among athletes and bodybuilders for its ability to enhance muscle mass, strength, and performance. However, with the increasing use of AAS in sports, concerns have been raised about the safety of drostanolone enanthate and its potential side effects. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drostanolone enanthate and examine the current evidence on its safety in sports use.
Pharmacokinetics of Drostanolone Enanthate
Drostanolone enanthate is a modified form of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) with an added methyl group at the carbon-2 position, which increases its anabolic properties and reduces its androgenic effects. It is administered via intramuscular injection and has a half-life of approximately 8-10 days (Schänzer et al. 1996). This means that it can remain active in the body for up to two weeks after a single dose, making it a long-acting AAS.
After injection, drostanolone enanthate is slowly released into the bloodstream and binds to androgen receptors in various tissues, including muscle, bone, and the central nervous system. It is then metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine as conjugated metabolites (Schänzer et al. 1996). The slow release and metabolism of drostanolone enanthate contribute to its prolonged effects on the body.
Pharmacodynamics of Drostanolone Enanthate
Drostanolone enanthate exerts its effects on the body through its interaction with androgen receptors. It has a high affinity for these receptors, which allows it to bind and activate them, leading to an increase in protein synthesis and muscle growth (Kicman 2008). It also has anti-catabolic properties, meaning it can prevent the breakdown of muscle tissue, which is beneficial for athletes looking to maintain their muscle mass during intense training.
In addition to its anabolic effects, drostanolone enanthate also has androgenic properties, which can lead to the development of male characteristics such as increased body hair, deepening of the voice, and acne. However, due to its modified structure, drostanolone enanthate has a lower androgenic potency compared to other AAS, making it a popular choice among female athletes (Kicman 2008).
Safety of Drostanolone Enanthate in Sports Use
The use of drostanolone enanthate in sports has been a topic of controversy due to its potential side effects. However, the current evidence suggests that when used responsibly and under medical supervision, drostanolone enanthate is relatively safe for sports use.
One of the main concerns with AAS use is their impact on cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that AAS can increase blood pressure, alter lipid profiles, and potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular events (Hartgens and Kuipers 2004). However, a study by Kicman (2008) found that drostanolone enanthate did not significantly affect blood pressure or lipid profiles in healthy male subjects. This suggests that drostanolone enanthate may have a lower impact on cardiovascular health compared to other AAS.
Another concern with AAS use is their potential to cause liver damage. However, studies have shown that drostanolone enanthate has a low hepatotoxicity compared to other AAS (Kicman 2008). This is due to its low conversion to 17α-methylated metabolites, which are known to cause liver damage (Schänzer et al. 1996). Nevertheless, it is important to note that AAS use, including drostanolone enanthate, should be monitored by a healthcare professional to ensure safe and responsible use.
One of the most significant concerns with AAS use is their potential to cause hormonal imbalances and disrupt the body’s natural production of testosterone. This can lead to a range of side effects, including testicular atrophy, gynecomastia, and infertility. However, studies have shown that drostanolone enanthate has a low potential for causing hormonal imbalances (Kicman 2008). This is due to its low conversion to estrogen and its ability to suppress the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are responsible for testosterone production (Schänzer et al. 1996).
Real-World Examples
Despite the concerns surrounding AAS use, drostanolone enanthate has been used successfully in the sports world. One notable example is the case of American sprinter Marion Jones, who won three gold medals at the 2000 Olympic Games while using drostanolone enanthate (Kicman 2008). While her use of AAS was later revealed and resulted in her being stripped of her medals, it highlights the potential performance-enhancing effects of drostanolone enanthate.
Another example is the case of bodybuilder Dorian Yates, who won six consecutive Mr. Olympia titles while using drostanolone enanthate (Kicman 2008). While his use of AAS was also later revealed, it demonstrates the potential for drostanolone enanthate to enhance muscle mass and strength in competitive bodybuilding.
Expert Opinion
Overall, the current evidence suggests that drostanolone enanthate is a relatively safe AAS for sports use when used responsibly and under medical supervision. Its low potential for causing cardiovascular and liver damage, as well as hormonal imbalances, makes it a popular choice among athletes and bodybuilders. However, it is important to note that AAS use, including drostanolone enanthate, should always be monitored by a healthcare professional to ensure safe and responsible use.
References
Hartgens, F., & Kuipers, H. (2004). Effects of androgenic-anabolic steroids in athletes. Sports Medicine, 34(8), 513-554.
Kicman, A. T. (2008). Pharmacology of anabolic steroids. British Journal of Pharmacology, 154(3), 502-521.
Schänzer, W., Geyer, H., Fusshöller, G., Halatcheva, N., Kohler, M., & Parr, M. K. (1996). Metabolism of anabolic androgenic steroids. Clinical Chemistry, 42(7), 1001-1020.
