Sharapova case: 490 athletes doped with meldonium

The Sharapova case brought meldonium from anonymity to headlines around the world. The scandal is widespread, and the list of athletes tested positive for this doping product is growing every day, revealing the extent of its consumption. A study carried out during the European Games in Baku (Azerbaijan) in June 2015 estimated that 490 athletes used this substance, which was not yet banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

About three years ago, WADA was alerted to the increase in the number of athletes using meldonium. It then decided to place it on the list of products under surveillance in 2015. During the European Games (12-28 June), its presence was sought in the samples taken from the athletes during anti-doping controls.

Almost 10% of athletes tested positive

Among the 662 athletes questioned out of 5632 present, 23 (3.5%) had declared using meldonium, including 13 medalists and 6 titled. However, out of 762 tests on urine samples, 66 cases of doping were detected in the laboratory, or 8.7%. The majority of sports were concerned, with a predominance among kayakers (15 cases), wrestlers (11), swimmers (9) and gymnasts (7).

It was by extrapolating the results of these urine tests to all athletes that WADA arrived at this estimate of 490 doped people. Faced with this massive consumption, it then decided to place meldonium on the list of doping products from 1^er January 2016.

Improved performance and recovery

The drug reduces the risk of ischemia – the lack of vascularity in a limb or organ -, increases blood flow and oxygen transport. It would therefore improve cardiopulmonary capacities and recovery.

“Meldonium was added because of data indicating its use by athletes to improve their performance” had informed WADA in October 2015, during the publication of the doping substances added to the list of products banned for practice sport in official competition.