Drugs In Sport

Question 1

Human growth hormone (HGH)

Answer 1

Human growth hormone (HGH) is used by athletes to promote physical growth. It has the ability to increase red blood cells, increases heart function and increases available energy. It is often used by athletes requiring strength and power for their sport.
Athletes who abuse HGH may develop diabetes and are at risk of heart failure

Question 2

Blood doping

Answer 2

• Blood is taken from an athlete in the weeks leading up to a competition to be injected in to them just prior to their race or event.
• The advantages of this are that the increased blood volume improves oxygen intake.

Question 3

Erythropoietin

Answer 3

• Stimulates the production of red blood cells thus allowing the blood to carry more oxygen.
• This drug is advantageous for endurance athletes such as cyclists.
• Too much EPO can cause clotting, heart attacks, strokes and even death.

Question 4

Beta blockers

Answer 4

•Beta blockers are taken to reduce stress and anxiety •advantageous in sports such as shooting and archery where fine motor control is important.

Question 5

Caffeine

Answer 5

Cafeine is a stimulant found in coffee, tea and cola drinks which has rapid short-term effects such as:
• energy release in your muscles
• shaking or trembling hands
• increased body temperature
• increased urine production

Question 6

Diuretics

Answer 6

Diuretics are used by athletes to stimulate urine production.
•used for weigh-in sports (weightlifting, horse racing)
•also used to dilute urine to mask particular drugs (eg. Steroids)
Dehydration is a common side affect, abuse may also lead to kidney problems