When we talk about performance-enhancing drugs, many people think of steroids, athletes, scandals, and banned substances. These substances are often associated with increasing physical performance, but what about the medicines that are not traditionally connected to sports?
There is a popular question today: Is sildenafil a performance enhancing drug? Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, is primarily known for treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED), but some wonder if it offers any benefits in other areas like athletic performance in sports.
In this article we will answer the question is Sildenafil a performance enhancing drug and also find out what are its benefits for your performance.
Is Sildenafil a Performance Enhancing Drug: The Truth
The answer to this question is not that simple. Sildenafil might help in enhancing your performance but there is very little to no evidence that can prove this.
The ability of Sildenafil to improve blood flow is the main reason people wonder if it could improve physical performance in sports.
Also, the main use of Sildenafil is to treat ED. Sometimes, it is also recommended by doctors to treat Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). In this case, it helps in relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs,thus reduces the load on your heart.
There are several medicines that contain Sildenafil, including Viagra and Cenforce.
Here are some reasons why Sildenafil is sometimes used as a performance enhancer:
- Sildenafil increases blood flow, which might improve the supply of nutrients to the muscles. This could help in reducing muscle fatigue during intense activities
- Athletes who workout or compete at high altitudes experience reduction in oxygen levels, which can lead to fatigue and reduced performance. Some believe Sildenafil could help improve the supply of oxygen in these conditions, increasing your endurance and performance
- It is believed that Sildenafil could help in fast muscle recovery by increasing blood circulation and reducing muscle fatigue
However, it is important to note that although these theories exist, they are not well researched and there is very little information to support it.
Is Sildenafil Banned in Sports?
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which governs the use of substances in sports, has not listed Sildenafil as a banned substance till now. This means athletes can legally use it without facing any penalties or disqualification in most sports.
However, the agency does keep a check on its use and may consider banning it in the future if it is found that it gives players an unfair advantage. Although Sildenafil is not banned, players should be cautious.
Sildenafil for Erectile Dysfunction vs. Sports Enhancement
Though there may be some confusion about the role of Sildenafil in sports, its main purpose is to treat ED. When used for ED, Sildenafil helps men attain and maintain an erection. This use is well-researched and approved by medical authorities.
However, when it is used in sports for the purpose of improving performance, the benefits of Sildenafil are not well known. The drug was not designed to enhance athletic performance, and its effects in this area are still under study.
It is also important to note that using Sildenafil without a prescription can be risky, especially for people with health conditions like heart problems.
Whether used for ED or in sports, it can cause side effects in certain cases. These Sildenafil side effects may include headache, dizziness, upset stomach, etc.
Conclusion
The major use of Sildenafil is for treating ED and PAH by improving blood flow. While there is some evidence that it might increase your performance, particularly in high-altitude conditions, the evidence is still limited.
Unlike the usual performance-enhancing drugs, Sildenafil does not directly increase muscle strength or speed.
As of now, Sildenafil is not classified as a performance-enhancing drug by WADA, and athletes are free to use it.
However, its use for the purpose of sports remains a topic of debate, and more research in the future is needed.
