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Danger and Health Risks of Doping
Many banned substances are not even approved for human use! On the other hand, just because medication on the list is legitimate does not mean it is good for athletes. Medicines are for people with health issues, not healthy athletes. Here are risks associated with some substances and methods on the Prohibited list. This is just a small snapshot into the problems caused by some of these prohibited substances.
These substances are used to treat delayed puberty, certain forms of impotence and muscle atrophy caused by different auto-immune and muscle-wasting diseases. Healthy athletes using these agents can face side effects like those below.
- Acne
- Male-pattern baldness
- Liver damage
- Stunted growth if administered to adolescents
- Disrupted puberty
- Increased aggression and sexual appetite, resulting in criminal behaviour.
- Withdrawal leads to depression and in some cases, suicide.
There are gender specific effects too.
Males can see breast tissue development, shrinking of testicles, impotence and reduced sperm production.
Women can see a deepening of voice, halting of breast development, hair growth on face, stomach and upper back and disrupted menstrual cycles.
HGH and such substances are used to treat male hypogonadism, anemia and growth hormone deficiency. Any abnormal presence of these — unless proven to be natural — can result in a longstanding ban. The use of these substances can severely compromise an athlete’s health in the long run.
- Hypertension
- Heart attacks
- Thyroid problems
- Severe headaches
- Loss of vision
- High blood pressure and heart failure
- Diabetes and tumors
- Crippling arthritis
Stimulants are used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anaphylaxis, influenza and cold conditions. Usage can often lead to:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Weight Loss
- Addiction
- Dehydration
- Tremors
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Diuretics are used to treat conditions like hypertension, kidney disease, and congestive heart failure. Taken without medical supervision, usage can result in potassium depletion and possibly even death. Other side effects include:
- Dehydration
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness or fainting
- Drop in blood pressure
- Loss of coordination and balance
Beta blockers help control hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, severe chest pain, migraine, and nervous or anxiety-related conditions. Its side effects include:
- Lowered blood pressure
- Slow heart rate
- Sleep disorders
- Spasm of the airways
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List of Prohibited Substances
Inclusion & Accessibility
Sport is for all. Sportspersons across disciplines, borders, and physical and cognitive abilities share common values and beliefs. We at NADA also believe in access to information, education and resources for all. Testing processes for athletes in special need may differ slightly, and NADA accommodates for that. All athletes enjoy the same rights and responsibilities under the testing program. You can read more about the rights and responsibilities of athletes with impairments in ‘Athlete Testing’ .
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