Anabolic steroids are drugs usually taken by athletes for improving strength, adding muscle and enhancing their overall performance in sports. These are also regarded as anabolic-androgenic steroids. These drugs are primarily made to work like testosterone, a hormone that the body makes called. Testosterone-boosting drugs are often used by athletes to enhance their performance due to the hormone’s role in several key physiological processes that can improve athletic performance. These drugs are developed in labs and have been found to be effective for athletes who wish to increase lean body mass and improve muscular strength, especially among elite weight-trained athletes. Here are some of the widely used performance-enhancing drugs by athletes.
Sildenafil
Sildenafil is generally used for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) but has also been proven to be effective in boosting testosterone levels in the body. It has been shown in studies that many patients have witnessed significant improvements in erectile function by taking sildenafil. It has also been found in studies that medications such as sildenafil (Viagra) have the ability to enhance athletic performance at very high altitudes. Studies have shown that sildenafil (Viagra®) helps to improve exercise performance at high altitude (>3,800 m) in a subset of athletes by greater than 35%. The exercise capacity of a person is usually reduced at high altitudes due to lower oxygen pressures leading to decreased delivery of oxygen to the tissues. Some sports persons and athletes buy sildenafil as it helps in improving performance at high altitude, especially by relaxing the pulmonary vessels, reducing pulmonary arterial pressure and increasing cardiac output. This helps in enhancing gas exchange, and allowing better oxygen delivery during exercise. It is specially found to be valuable for athletes with spinal cord injury, as they can use these medications to treat erectile dysfunction of neurologic origin. Overall, athletes usually buy sildenafil for improving their performance and achieving their specific goals.
Clenbuterol
Many athletes and sports persons also buy Clenbuterol, as it helps in improving metabolic rate by burning fat accumulated in the body. Some bodybuilders and athletes use it to reach their fitness goals. In few countries, it is available by prescription only for people suffering from asthma or other breathing problems. It is also used for treating horses with asthma. Clenbuterol is a substance that has steroid-like effects on the body. It is classified as a beta2-adrenergic agonist. This leads to an increase in metabolic rate and the mobilization of stored fat. This is often why it is considered a powerful fat-burning agent. By promoting fat loss, Clenbuterol may help athletes achieve a leaner physique, which could improve endurance and strength-to-weight ratios. Sports persons and weight trainers usually buy Clenbuterol for enhancing performance in weight-class sports, endurance events, or bodybuilding.
Testosterone propionate
Testosterone propionate is primarily used in androgen replacement therapy. It is specially used for treating hypogonadism in men, breast cancer, low sexual desire, delayed puberty in boys, and menopausal symptoms. Many sports persons widely buy testosterone propionate for improving physique and performance. However, it is a controlled substance in many countries, and so non-medical use is generally illicit.
When selecting performance-enhancing drugs, athletes must consider safety, legality, and ethical implications. It’s important to evaluate potential side effects, long-term health risks, and the drug’s effect on physical performance. Athletes should also ensure the substance is compliant with anti-doping regulations in their sport. Consulting a medical professional and considering natural alternatives or approved supplements can provide safer options. Ultimately, maintaining fair competition and safeguarding health should be prioritized over the pursuit of short-term performance gains.
