Pharamacological aids

Question 1

Anabolic steroids

Answer 1

Synthetic hormones to increase protein synthesis
Illegal
Used by sprinters, boxers
By injection, tablet, cream

+Increase muscle mass
+Increase speed of recovery
+Increase duration + intensity of training
-Mood swings/aggression
-Liver damage
-Heart failure

Question 2

EPO

Answer 2

Naturally produced hormone that controls RBC production
Illegal
Used by endurance athletes-marathon
By injection

+Increase RBC count
+Increases aerobic capacity
-Increase blood viscosity
-Decrease cardiac output

Question 3

Human growth hormone (HGH)

Answer 3

Synthetic copy of natural human growth hormone
Illegal
Used by sprinters, powerlifters
By injection, tablet

+Increase protein synthesis
+Increase speed of recovery
-Abnormal bone/muscle growth
-Enlargement of organs