О1. Beta-blockers
What are beta-blockers?
Beta-blockers are a class of medications prescribed to block the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline – hormones produced by the adrenal glands in stress or exercise. Adrenaline and noradrenaline increase blood pressure and heart rate, thereby preparing the body for intensive activity. The effect of beta-blockers is quite the opposite: they reduce the blood pressure and heart rate and have a relaxing effect on muscle function.
In some sports, like archery and shooting, beta-blockers are also prohibited out-of-competition.
Medical uses of beta-blockers
Beta-blockers have been used to treat medical conditions and diseases prompted directly or indirectly by pressure or anxiety:
• hypertension (high blood pressure);
• angina;
• cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal rhythm of the heart);
• migraine;
• tremors;
• alcohol dependence;
• glaucoma.
Effects on performance
Because of their calming effect, beta-blockers can give a competitive advantage in sports that require precision, balance, concentration, etc.
Beta-blockers are prohibited in-competition only in the following sports: archery (also prohibited out-of-competition), automobile sports, billiards, darts, golf, shooting (also prohibited out-of-competition) and skiing/snowboarding (in ski jumping, freestyle aerials/halfpipe and snowboard halfpipe/big air).
Side-effects of beta-blockers
The side-effects of beta-blockers are:
• bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate);
• hypotension (low blood pressure);
• exhaustion;
• impaired peripheral circulation (cold hands and/or feet);
• dizziness.
Substances and methods prohibited at all times
