• Table of Contents

  • The Controversial Presence of Trestolone in the Sports World
  • The Pharmacology of Trestolone
  • Potential Benefits of Trestolone in Sports
  • Risks and Side Effects of Trestolone
  • Regulations on Trestolone in Sports
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

The Controversial Presence of Trestolone in the Sports World

The use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) in sports has been a hotly debated topic for decades. Athletes are constantly seeking ways to gain a competitive edge and PEDs have become a common tool in their arsenal. One such PED that has gained attention in recent years is trestolone, a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) with potent muscle-building effects. However, its use in the sports world has been met with controversy and scrutiny. In this article, we will explore the pharmacology of trestolone, its potential benefits and risks, and the current regulations surrounding its use in sports.

The Pharmacology of Trestolone

Trestolone, also known as 7α-methyl-19-nortestosterone (MENT), was first developed in the 1960s as a potential male contraceptive. However, its strong anabolic properties quickly caught the attention of bodybuilders and athletes. Trestolone is a modified form of testosterone, with a methyl group added at the 7α position and a double bond at the 9-10 position. These modifications make it more resistant to metabolism and increase its anabolic potency.

Like other AAS, trestolone works by binding to androgen receptors in the body, stimulating protein synthesis and promoting muscle growth. It also has a high affinity for the progesterone receptor, which can lead to estrogenic side effects such as gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) and water retention. Trestolone has a longer half-life compared to other AAS, with an estimated duration of action of 2-3 days.

Potential Benefits of Trestolone in Sports

The main reason athletes use trestolone is for its muscle-building effects. Studies have shown that it can increase lean body mass and strength, making it an attractive option for athletes looking to improve their performance. In addition, trestolone has been reported to have a lower risk of androgenic side effects compared to other AAS, making it a more appealing choice for athletes concerned about their physical appearance.

Another potential benefit of trestolone is its ability to enhance recovery. A study by Kicman et al. (2018) found that trestolone can increase the production of red blood cells, which can improve oxygen delivery to muscles and aid in recovery after intense exercise. This could give athletes an advantage in endurance sports such as cycling or long-distance running.

Risks and Side Effects of Trestolone

While trestolone may offer potential benefits for athletes, it also comes with risks and side effects. As mentioned earlier, its high affinity for the progesterone receptor can lead to estrogenic side effects. In addition, trestolone can suppress the body’s natural production of testosterone, which can result in testicular atrophy and decreased libido. Long-term use of trestolone has also been linked to liver damage and cardiovascular issues.

Moreover, trestolone is not approved for human use and its long-term effects on the body are not fully understood. This lack of research and regulation has raised concerns about the safety of using trestolone, especially in the sports world where athletes may be using it at higher doses and for longer periods of time.

Regulations on Trestolone in Sports

Due to its potential for abuse and health risks, trestolone is classified as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and is banned in all sports competitions. However, there have been cases of athletes testing positive for trestolone, indicating that it is still being used despite the ban.

In 2018, American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson was suspended for one month after testing positive for trestolone. Richardson claimed that the substance was unintentionally ingested through a contaminated supplement, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and testing in the supplement industry.

Furthermore, trestolone is not only a concern in professional sports but also in amateur and recreational sports. The use of trestolone and other PEDs in high school and college sports has become a growing issue, with young athletes risking their health and future for short-term gains in performance.

Expert Opinion

As a researcher in the field of sports pharmacology, I have seen the impact of PEDs on athletes and the sports industry. While trestolone may offer potential benefits for athletes, its use in sports is highly controversial and poses significant risks to the health and integrity of the sport. The lack of regulation and education surrounding PEDs in the sports world is a major concern and needs to be addressed to protect the well-being of athletes.

References

Kicman, A. T., Cowan, D. A., & Myhre, L. (2018). The potential of trestolone (MENT) as a male contraceptive: a pilot study. Contraception, 97(3), 244-251.

WADA. (2021). The 2021 Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/content/what-is-prohibited/prohibited-in-competition/steroids

WADA. (2021). Athlete Sha’Carri Richardson Accepts Suspension for Anti-Doping Rule Violation. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/media/news/2021-07/athlete-shacarri-richardson-accepts-suspension-for-anti-doping-rule-violation

WADA. (2021). Trestolone. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/content/what-is-prohibited/prohibited-in-competition/steroids/trestolone

WADA. (2021). What is Prohibited. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/content/what-is-prohibited