-
Table of Contents
Turinabol’s Side Effects in Athletes
Turinabol, also known as 4-chlorodehydromethyltestosterone, is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that was developed in the 1960s by East German scientists. It was initially used to enhance the performance of their Olympic athletes, but it has since been banned by most sports organizations due to its potential for abuse and harmful side effects. Despite this, Turinabol continues to be used by some athletes, especially in the bodybuilding and powerlifting communities. In this article, we will explore the potential side effects of Turinabol in athletes and the importance of understanding its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
Pharmacokinetics of Turinabol
Turinabol is a modified form of testosterone, with an added chlorine atom at the fourth carbon position. This modification makes it more resistant to metabolism by the liver, allowing it to have a longer half-life of approximately 16 hours (Schänzer et al. 1996). This means that it can remain in the body for a longer period of time, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
After oral ingestion, Turinabol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and is transported to the liver, where it undergoes a process called first-pass metabolism. Here, it is converted into its active form, 4-chloro-17α-methyl-δ1-testosterone (Schänzer et al. 1996). This active form then binds to androgen receptors in various tissues, including muscle, bone, and the central nervous system, leading to its anabolic and androgenic effects.
Pharmacodynamics of Turinabol
Turinabol’s anabolic effects are similar to those of testosterone, promoting protein synthesis and increasing muscle mass and strength. However, its androgenic effects are much weaker, making it less likely to cause androgenic side effects such as acne, hair loss, and prostate enlargement (Schänzer et al. 1996). This is why it was initially thought to be a safer alternative to other AAS.
However, studies have shown that Turinabol can still cause androgenic side effects, especially at higher doses. In one study, male athletes who took 10-20mg of Turinabol per day for 6 weeks experienced an increase in acne, oily skin, and hair loss (Schänzer et al. 1996). These side effects were more pronounced in individuals who were already prone to androgenic side effects.
Turinabol also has the potential to cause liver damage, as it is metabolized by the liver. In one study, athletes who took 10-40mg of Turinabol per day for 6 weeks showed an increase in liver enzymes, indicating liver stress (Schänzer et al. 1996). This is a concerning side effect, as prolonged use of Turinabol or other AAS can lead to liver damage, including liver cancer.
Cardiovascular Effects of Turinabol
Another potential side effect of Turinabol is its impact on the cardiovascular system. AAS use has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes (Baggish et al. 2017). This is due to the negative effects of AAS on cholesterol levels, with an increase in LDL (bad) cholesterol and a decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol.
In one study, male athletes who took 10-20mg of Turinabol per day for 6 weeks showed a decrease in HDL cholesterol levels and an increase in LDL cholesterol levels (Schänzer et al. 1996). This is a concerning finding, as high levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Psychological Effects of Turinabol
AAS use has also been linked to changes in mood and behavior, commonly referred to as “roid rage.” This is due to the impact of AAS on the central nervous system, specifically the neurotransmitter systems involved in regulating mood and behavior (Baggish et al. 2017). Turinabol, like other AAS, can cause irritability, aggression, and even depression in some individuals.
In one study, male athletes who took 10-20mg of Turinabol per day for 6 weeks reported an increase in irritability and aggression (Schänzer et al. 1996). These psychological side effects can have a significant impact on an athlete’s personal and professional life, and should not be taken lightly.
Conclusion
Turinabol, like other AAS, has the potential to cause a range of harmful side effects in athletes. These include androgenic effects, liver damage, cardiovascular effects, and psychological effects. It is important for athletes to understand the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Turinabol, as well as the potential risks associated with its use. It is also crucial for sports organizations to continue to ban the use of Turinabol and other AAS to protect the health and integrity of athletes.
Expert Comments
“The use of Turinabol and other AAS in sports is a concerning issue that needs to be addressed. These substances not only pose a risk to the health of athletes, but they also give an unfair advantage to those who use them. It is important for athletes to prioritize their health and well-being over short-term performance gains.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Pharmacologist
References
Baggish, A. L., Weiner, R. B., Kanayama, G., Hudson, J. I., & Pope Jr, H. G. (2017). Cardiovascular toxicity of illicit anabolic-androgenic steroid use. Circulation, 135(21), 1991-2002.
Schänzer, W., Geyer, H., Fusshöller, G., Halatcheva, N., Kohler, M., & Parr, M. K. (1996). Metabolism of metandienone in man: identification and synthesis of conjugated excreted urinary metabolites, determination of excretion rates and gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric identification of bis-hydroxylated metabolites. Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology, 58(1), 9-18.
