| Description |
1 online resource (streaming video file) (28 min. 28 sec.) ; 171989143 bytes |
| Summary |
Can't tell your peptides from your steroids? Not sure how EPO improves stamina? Catalyst investigates the substances at the forefront of the sports doping controversy and asks whether we are all potential candidates for life enhancing drugs.PERFORMANCE ENHANCING DRUGSIn February 2013, the Australian public learned of a year-long government investigation that found a widespread use of drugs in professional sport. But what are the substances sportspeople are taking? What are these drugs supposed to do for athletes, and is there any evidence that these substances actually work and enhance performance? Maryanne Demasi investigates. As the Tour de France prepares to depart this weekend, it reminds us of the endurance drugs that have marred the event in the past. EPO, which was taken by disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong, increases the body's ability to carry oxygen. But the same results can be achieved through blood transfusions and simulated high altitude training. While there is an argument that widespread doping creates its own level playing field, it is the risk to life through devastating side effects that is of primary concern.LIFE ENHANCING DRUGSPerformance enhancing drugs aren't limited to just sport and increasing your physical prowess. There are substances that could improve your mind power and help you learn faster or improve your memory. Do we face a future where we'll be increasingly brain doping? Graham Phillips reports on research into neurological enhancement and takes part in a drug trial that aims to improve his language learning ability. Beyond improving intelligence, scientists are also interested in the neuropeptide oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, and its ability to enhance our social behaviour.PRODUCTION DETAILS:Series producer Matt Scully |
| Event |
Broadcast 2013-06-27 at 20:00:00 |
| Notes |
Classification: NC |
| Subject |
Androgens.
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Athletes -- Drug use.
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Dietary supplements.
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Doping in sports.
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Drugs -- Side effects.
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Somatotropin.
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Australia.
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Streaming video
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| Author |
Demasi, Maryanne, host
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Phillips, Graham, host
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Copland, David, contributor
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Heather, Alison, contributor
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Ho, Ken, contributor
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Howson, Damien, contributor
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Lucke, Jayne, contributor
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Mazanov, Jason, contributor
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McGregor, Iain, contributor
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Rasko Ao, John, contributor
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