Performance enhancing drugs have been an issue of controversy for many years. The term, "performance enhancing drugs" brings with it pictures of athletes who have been accused of gaining a competitive edge by utilizing some type of drug. Generally, the most popular and well known of these drugs are steroids, which can help build more muscle and therefore strength over a shorter than normal period of time. However, there are other types of performance enhancing drugs, and a new player in this controversy is the cognitive-enhancing drug.
Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids, including methyltestosterone, oxandrolone and oxymetholone, are drugs that are made from the male hormone testosterone. Anabolic steroids work by increasing the production of proteins, which help to build muscle mass.
These drugs are currently illegal to use for non-medical purposes. There are significant risks associated with taking these drugs including heart palpitations, osteoporosis (the break-down of bone tissue), mood swings, impotence and sterility.
Designer Steroids
Designer steroids are a dangerous class of anabolic steroids that emerged in 2002, according to the Doctors at the Mayo Clinic. These drugs were created with the purpose of stimulating the effects of steroids, yet being undetectable by traditional drug tests.
Designer steroids, such as Tetrahydrogestrinone (THG), Desoxymethyltestosterone and Norbolethone pose risks with similar side effects as anabolic steroids--only the risks are increased because they were made specifically for athletes and not for medical purposes.
Creatine
Creatine is an amino acid (a building block of proteins) produced naturally within the body. Creatine is important in the creation of energy for the body because it helps to convert stored energy (ADP) into usable energy (ATP). The advantages of taking creatine supplements include an increase in short-term energy, a decrease in muscle fatigue, which in turn can help to increase muscle mass and strength.
Side effects may include muscle cramps, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea and weight gain. Long-term effects are not known but increased use of creatine may cause damage to the kidneys or liver.
Cognitive Enhancers
Cognitive enhancers are a form of performance enhancing drug that boost cognitive, or thinking, functions. There are two popular cognitive enhancers: Adderall (dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate), both of which are commonly prescribed to treat attention deficient disorder.
These medications are psychostimulants that act to increase the chemicals in the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine, resulting in increased alertness and concentration, while decreasing fatigue.
The possible uses in the general population has sparked controversy. While these medications do trigger side effects such as headaches, depression and insomnia, as well as posing a risk of developing a dependency or addiction, according to Neuroanthropology, cognitive enhancers could also increase the gap between socioeconomic groups since only those with money are able to afford them, and they could be used to achieve success.
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