The Ethical Implications and Health Risks Associated with Off-Label Pharmaceutical use in Sports Medicine: Review of Performance-Enhancing Drug Misuse among Athletes
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Abstract
Background: The ethical dilemmas in sports medicine have garnered increasing attention, particularly regarding the off-label use of pharmaceutical agents to enhance athletic performance. This phenomenon poses significant risks to athletes' health, integrity, and the competitive nature of sports.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted to evaluate the prevalence and implications of off-label drug use among athletes. A comprehensive search of scholarly articles was performed across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on both hormonal and non-hormonal substances commonly employed in sports.
Results: The findings reveal a concerning trend: athletes, driven by societal pressures and the pursuit of competitive advantage, frequently misuse performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), including anabolic steroids and growth hormones. These substances are often acquired through unregulated channels, leading to significant health risks, including cardiovascular complications, hormonal imbalances, psychological disorders, and dependency. The misuse of these drugs is further exacerbated by misinformation and the lack of stringent regulatory oversight.
Conclusion: The off-label use of pharmaceuticals in sports presents multifaceted challenges that necessitate urgent attention from healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and sports organizations. Educational interventions, enhanced health literacy, and robust regulatory frameworks are essential to mitigate the health risks associated with off-label drug use and to uphold the ethical standards of competitive sports.