Narsingh doping scandal: What is Metandienone?

Indian wrestler Narsingh Yadav was found guilty of using a banned substance by the NADA, believed to be Metandienone, a quick run down of the basics of the drug:

What is Metandienone?

It is an anabolic steroid. Androgenic anabolic steroids are defined as natural, synthetic or semi-synthetic drugs derived from testosterone, used with the aim of improving physical performance by increasing both muscle strength and mass. Metandienone was developed in Germany and released in the United States in the early 1960s, where it is a controlled substance.

How does it work?

Metandienone helps in a process called protein synthesis, and it’s what builds and repairs muscle. It revs up the protein metabolism by retaining more nitrogen in the muscle tissue.

Side Effects?

Side Effects include Gynecomastia (the non-cancerous increase in the size of a male breast), high blood pressure and banldness.

Available as?

It is available in the market in the form of capsules such as D-Bal. It is popular among bodybuilders. The World Anti Doping Agency, however, has banned the usage of anabolic steroids in sports. A prescription is required to purchase D-Bal in the US and Europe, but not in Asia and South America.

Types of performance enhancing drugs

Stimulants: It makes athletes more alert and delays fatigue.

Anabolic agents: That is steroids, it helps athletes train harder and build muscle.

Diuretics: To remove fluid from the body and to reduce weight. Also used to hide other drugs.

Narcotic analgesics: Mask pain caused by injury or fatigue.

Peptides and hormones: EPO (Erythropoietin) red blood cells and HGH (Human Growth Hormone).