Trimetazidine Was The Drug That Was Found in Russian Skater Kamila Valieva

During the 2022 Beijing Olympics, a doping controversy broke out in the figure skating world when Russian skater Kamila Valieva tested positive for trimetazidine, a prohibited drug.

Things became a little murky after that. The International Olympic Committee stated at the time that this was a “inconclusive situation” and that Kamila should continue to participate. The organization stated that it would not be “appropriate” to organize a medal ceremony for the figure skating team event. They also stated that if Kamila, who was expected to win gold, placed in the top three in the singles event, there would be no flower ceremony or medal presentation.

Kamila finished fourth, and now, over two years later, officials have declared that she is banned from the 2022 Olympics, and the Russian team must return their gold medals, according to ESPN. The American team finished second to Russia in the competition and will now win gold medals. (Kamila has also been barred from competitive figure skating until December 25, 2025, which is approximately seven weeks before the next Winter Olympics.)

All of this raises many issues concerning trimetazidine, the substance discovered in Kamila’s system.

Trimetazidine is a medicine prescribed to treat angina. According to the Mayo Clinic, angina is chest discomfort caused by diminished blood flow to the heart, as well as other cardiac disorders.

The European Medicines Agency also classifies trimetazidine as a drug that affects metabolism.

Trimetazidine has multiple potentially dangerous side effects, including an increased chance of developing Parkinson’s disease and other motor disorders such as tremors, muscular stiffness, walking difficulties, and restless legs syndrome.

However, the European Medicines Agency warns that patients frequently stop experiencing these symptoms after they stop using the medicine.

According to NBC Olympics, the medication has been listed as a banned substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) since 2014. It is classified as a “hormone and metabolic modulator,” and athletes are prohibited from using it both during and after competition.

According to NBC Olympics, the medicine was banned because it is thought to boost physical efficiency, particularly in endurance sports.

Trimetazidine is not only prohibited from the Olympics, but it is also not licensed for usage in the United States. However, the medication is widely used in Europe.