[Dnitrophenol--a dangerous doping agent].
BACKGROUND
Performance-enhancing drugs are frequently used by bodybuilders: anabolic steroids, growth hormone and insulin, only to mention a few. Many little known drugs are also used.


METHODS
Two men aged 20 and 32 years, both active bodybuilders, complained about lassitude and malaise. Clinical and laboratory evaluation revealed an unusual cause of their complaints.


RESULTS
Laboratory investigation showed very low serum levels of free thyroxin and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), suggesting central depression of thyroid function. Both men then admitted taking dinitrophenol (approximately 5 mg/kg bodyweight/day) to "burn fat" before body-building competitions.


CONCLUSIONS
Doctors should be aware that bodybuilders might use dinitrophenol. This toxic compound has severe metabolic effects. Overdose may cause hyperpyrexia and death. Use should be strongly discouraged.
Sand
Paal
P
Humana Medisinske Senter Postboks 63 1300 Sandvika.
Madsen
Steinar
S
D019297:2,4-Dinitrophenol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D001067:Appetite Depressants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004300:Doping in Sports; D006801:Humans; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors; D014891:Weight Lifting
D001067:Appetite Depressants; D019297:2,4-Dinitrophenol