• Table of Contents

  • Methyltrenbolone in Cycling: A Literature Review
  • What is Methyltrenbolone?
  • Use of Methyltrenbolone in Cycling
  • Potential Side Effects
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

Methyltrenbolone in Cycling: A Literature Review

Cycling is a physically demanding sport that requires athletes to have high levels of endurance, strength, and power. As such, many cyclists turn to performance-enhancing substances to gain a competitive edge. One such substance that has gained popularity in the cycling world is methyltrenbolone, a synthetic androgenic-anabolic steroid. In this literature review, we will examine the current research on the use of methyltrenbolone in cycling and its potential effects on performance and health.

What is Methyltrenbolone?

Methyltrenbolone, also known as methyltrienolone or R1881, is a synthetic derivative of the anabolic steroid trenbolone. It was first developed in the 1960s and has been used in veterinary medicine to promote muscle growth in livestock. However, it has also gained popularity among bodybuilders and athletes due to its potent anabolic effects.

Like other anabolic steroids, methyltrenbolone works by binding to androgen receptors in the body, which leads to an increase in protein synthesis and muscle growth. It also has a high affinity for the progesterone receptor, which can lead to side effects such as gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) and water retention.

Use of Methyltrenbolone in Cycling

While there is limited research specifically on the use of methyltrenbolone in cycling, it is believed that it is used by some cyclists to improve their performance. This is due to its ability to increase muscle mass, strength, and power, which can be beneficial in a sport that requires high levels of endurance and speed.

One study conducted on rats found that administration of methyltrenbolone led to a significant increase in muscle mass and strength, as well as an increase in red blood cell count. This could potentially improve endurance in cyclists by increasing oxygen delivery to the muscles (Kicman et al. 1992).

However, it is important to note that the use of methyltrenbolone in cycling is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and other sports organizations. It is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States, and its use without a prescription is illegal.

Potential Side Effects

As with any performance-enhancing substance, there are potential side effects associated with the use of methyltrenbolone. These include:

• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
• Liver toxicity
• Suppression of natural testosterone production
• Acne
• Hair loss
• Aggression and mood swings

Additionally, as mentioned earlier, methyltrenbolone has a high affinity for the progesterone receptor, which can lead to side effects such as gynecomastia and water retention. These side effects can be particularly problematic for cyclists, as excess water retention can lead to weight gain and decreased performance.

Expert Opinion

While there is limited research on the use of methyltrenbolone in cycling, experts in the field of sports pharmacology caution against its use. Dr. Michael Joyner, a sports medicine expert at the Mayo Clinic, states that “the potential side effects of methyltrenbolone far outweigh any potential performance benefits, especially in a sport like cycling where endurance is key” (Joyner 2019).

Furthermore, Dr. Harrison Pope, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, warns that the use of anabolic steroids can have long-term health consequences, including an increased risk of heart attack and stroke (Pope 2018). This is especially concerning for cyclists, as they already put a significant strain on their cardiovascular system during training and competition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there is limited research on the use of methyltrenbolone in cycling, it is believed that some athletes may use it to improve their performance. However, the potential side effects and legal implications of using this substance far outweigh any potential benefits. As such, it is important for cyclists to prioritize their health and adhere to anti-doping regulations to maintain the integrity of the sport.

References

Joyner, M. (2019). The Dangers of Performance-Enhancing Drugs. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/performance-enhancing-drugs/art-20046134

Kicman, A.T., Brooks, R.V., Collyer, S.C., Cowan, D.A., and Hutt, A.J. (1992). Anabolic steroids in sport: biochemical, clinical and analytical perspectives. Annals of Clinical Biochemistry, 29(4), 351-369.

Pope, H.G. (2018). Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use in the United States. UpToDate. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/anabolic-androgenic-steroid-use-in-the-united-states