Tennis Player Jannik Sinner Doping Scandal: How Do Performance-Enhancing Drugs Affect The Body?

Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner has been caught in a doping scandal. While these claims have raised eyebrows, they also spotlight a pressing issue in athletics—the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). Doping, often pursued in the quest for improved performance, comes with significant health risks that are often overlooked. This article explores the downsides of these performance-boosting medications.

Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic steroids, also called anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), mimic the hormone testosterone. These drugs help build muscle and enhance physical strength. While some athletes turn to anabolic steroids for faster recovery and increased endurance, their use often involves doses far exceeding medical recommendations.

Men who misuse anabolic steroids may experience breast enlargement, shrunken testicles, and fertility issues, while women may develop deeper voices, facial hair, and menstrual irregularities. Both genders face severe acne, tendon injuries, liver tumours, and heart complications. Prolonged misuse can also lead to addiction and mental health issues like aggression and depression.

A study published in the journal Endocrine Reviews in 2014 clearly stated the adverse effects of AASs on several organ systems. Researchers said that these drugs adversely affected the cardiovascular effects, hematologic effects, psychiatric and neuropsychologic effects, and hormonal and metabolic effects of the user. They said that there were also a variety of apparently less frequent effects on various other bodily tissues.

Androstenedione

Androstenedione is a hormone converted into testosterone and estrogen in the body. Often marketed as a workout aid, androstenedione has minimal proven benefits for strength or recovery. Its misuse can cause acne, shrinking testicles, breast growth in men, and a deeper voice and hair loss in women. Moreover, andro increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, making it a significant health hazard.

Human Growth Hormone (HGH)

HGH, or somatotropin, is often misused by athletes seeking muscle growth and improved performance. Although its effectiveness remains unproven, its side effects are well-documented. These include joint pain, muscle weakness, fluid retention, and increased risks of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart enlargement.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

EPO is used medically to treat anemia by boosting red blood cell production. Athletes misuse it to enhance oxygen delivery to muscles, improving endurance. However, doping with EPO can lead to stroke, heart attack, and blocked arteries in the lungs—issues linked to numerous deaths in competitive sports.

Diuretics

Diuretics help athletes lose water weight and mask the presence of other PEDs in drug tests. However, they pose significant health risks, including dehydration, muscle cramps, low potassium levels, and severe drops in blood pressure. In extreme cases, diuretics can cause death.

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Creatine

Creatine, a popular supplement, helps muscles generate quick bursts of energy. While generally safe in recommended doses, overuse may cause dehydration, muscle cramps, and bloating. Its benefits for sports requiring endurance remain unsubstantiated.

Stimulants

Stimulants like caffeine, amphetamines, and cocaine increase alertness and reduce fatigue. However, they can lead to insomnia, dehydration, high blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms. Misuse may result in addiction, hallucinations, and life-threatening events like strokes or heart attacks.