Performance-Enhancing Drugs and the High School Athlete

Abstract

A performance-enhancing drug (PED) is any substance that is used to increase muscle mass, dull pain, reduce weight, or ease stress. The use of PEDs is a growing concern among adolescents, due in part to the pressures to perform, the influence of professional role models, and a general lack of education about the dangers of these substances. Use of performance enhancers has been identified in middle school as well as high school age students. This article details the school nurse's role in identifying youth who are using a PED, providing education for students and families, and referring for treatment if needed. Although PED use is not as prevalent as use of other illicit drugs, PEDs still pose a threat to adolescent physical and mental health. Discussion about PED use can open the door to discussion about use of other substances.

Appearance and Performance Enhancing Drugs and Substances: The Role of the School Nurse

“…Dextromethorphan, which is found in over-the-counter cough preparations, is occasionally consumed for its stimulant properties. Similar to other stimulants, it can result in rapid heartbeat and other side-effects (Franckowiak, 2015).…”

“…f. Serve as a resource for parents by providing anti-doping information and support (Franckowiak, 2015). g.…”

“…According to the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA, n.d.), steroids, which include testosterone, are among the most commonly abused illicit APEDS. Although numerous steroids are illegal or require a prescription, testosterone precursors such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione, are easily obtained legally over the counter (Franckowiak, 2015). Steroids may be extremely tempting for the student athlete or exerciser who is seeking to increase muscle mass, yet these substances can lead to significant side-effects (Albano et al, 2021; Mudrak et al, 2018).…”

“…Performance and appearance enhancing substances can alter biological function, and in extreme cases, lead to death. Some common signs and symptoms which may look similar to other health concerns include palpitations, acne, severe headaches, muscle cramps, dizziness, and dehydration (Albano et al, 2021; Franckowiak, 2015; Greydanus & Patel, 2010; Horwitz et al, 2019; Momaya et al, 2015; Shekelle et al, 2003). Screening for behaviors that may indicate current or future use of APEDS is vital as changes in behavior are common with some illicit APEDS.…”

“…At the 2022 Winter Olympics, a 15-year-old figure skater tested positive for trimetazidine, a non-Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medication used to treat angina and believed to improve endurance, exposing the dark side of youth participation in sports once again. Appearance and performance enhancing drugs and substances (APEDS) have been a prevalent ethical and health issue in sports for many years and can be defined as any drug or supplement used for the purposes of improving appearance or athletic performance (Cuff & LaBotz, 2020; Franckowiak, 2015). The use of these substances is also called doping.…”