Performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) are substances or treatments that are used to improve athletic performance. These drugs can be synthetic or natural and range from anabolic steroids to stimulants, such as caffeine.

Athletes use PEDs to gain a competitive edge and improve their performance. Some athletes may use these drugs to recover from injuries more quickly or to increase their endurance during long competitions.

The risks of using PEDs can vary depending on the drug or treatment being used. Some common risks include an increased risk of heart disease, liver damage, and other health problems. Additionally, athletes who use PEDs may face sanctions or bans from their sport if caught.

One of the main ethical concerns surrounding PED use in sports is the unfair advantage it gives to athletes who use these drugs. This can undermine the integrity of the sport and create an uneven playing field. Additionally, the use of PEDs can put the health and safety of athletes at risk.

Many sports organizations have implemented drug testing programs to deter athletes from using PEDs. These programs typically involve random testing and can result in sanctions or bans for athletes who test positive. Additionally, some sports have banned certain drugs or treatments altogether.

The use of PEDs in sports is an ongoing issue, and it is likely that new drugs and treatments will continue to emerge. However, sports organizations and anti-doping agencies will likely continue to develop new strategies to detect and deter PED use in order to maintain a level playing field and protect the health and safety of athletes.