Claims made use of the drug is widespread in the sport.
A Victorian radio host has made the claim the use of Viagra as a legal performance enhancing drugs is in common use amongst AFL players.
Neil Mitchell from 3AW said sources within the game have told him the use of the erectile dysfunction drug is widespread with players believing its benefits help them get an edge over the opposition.
“The World Anti-Doping Authority has had a look at it, and in Victoria the drug is not banned under the drug code so the players are permitted to use it. And, I am told, they do,” Mitchell said.
Viagra works by relaxing muscles and opening up arteries to improve blood flow around the body, with players apparently believing this to be the case with the extremities of their arms and legs.
With AFL players sometimes running more than 15 kilometres a game, any advantage to ensure a win would be desirable.
However, Mitchell believes any benefit from the drug would not affect them, at least while the game was going, with experts saying only athletes performing at high altitude might experience some increase in output.
“The drug does not improve blood flow through the body, anywhere in the body. It prevents blood draining rather than pumping it in – that is the simple explanation,” Mitchell said.
“But apparently some in AFL football think it helps them run, mark, jump and kick.
“International athletes have been using it too, and the habit has spread to Australia.”
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