Question

Samples of blood and urine of a sportsperson are collected before any sports event for drug tests.
(a) Why there is a need to conduct such tests?
(b) Name the drugs the authorities usually look for.
(c) Write the generic names of two plants from which these drugs are obtained.

Hint:

Performance-enhancing drugs are often plant-derived, and testing before events ensures compliance with anti-doping regulations in sports.

Answer 1

Step 1: For (a), drug tests are conducted to ensure fair competition, as performance-enhancing drugs can give athletes an unfair advantage, violating sports ethics and regulations. They also protect athletes’ health, as such drugs can have harmful side effects.
Step 2: For (b), authorities typically look for drugs like anabolic steroids (e.g., testosterone) and stimulants (e.g., amphetamines), which enhance performance by increasing muscle mass or alertness.
Step 3: For (c), two plants from which such drugs are derived include: (i) Cannabis (Cannabis sativa), which produces cannabinoids like THC, used as a stimulant, and (ii) Coca (Erythroxylum coca), which produces cocaine, a powerful stimulant.
Thus, tests ensure fairness and safety, targeting drugs like steroids and stimulants, often derived from plants like Cannabis and Coca.