The use of performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) in professional sports has been a hot-button issue for decades. Athletes, coaches, and organizations have all taken stances on the use of PEDs, and the debate continues to rage over whether or not they should be allowed in professional sports. This essay will explore the use of PEDs in professional sports, from the perspectives of athletes, coaches, and organizations. It will analyze the motivations for athletes to use PEDs, the potential risks involved, and the methods organizations use to prevent and punish athletes who do use them. Finally, the essay will consider the consequences of the use of PEDs on professional sports as a whole, and whether or not their use should be allowed.

One of the primary motivations for athletes to use PEDs is the desire to gain a competitive advantage. Professional athletes are in a highly competitive environment, and the pressure to succeed can be immense. PEDs can provide athletes with a physical edge over their opponents, allowing them to perform better and increase their chances of success. Additionally, athletes may use PEDs to recover from injuries more quickly, allowing them to return to competition faster.

The potential risks of using PEDs are numerous. For example, athletes may experience side effects from the drugs, such as increased aggression, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, the long-term effects of PEDs are still largely unknown, and athletes may be putting their health at risk by using them. Finally, athletes who use PEDs may be subject to legal repercussions, as many PEDs are illegal in many countries.

Organizations have implemented a variety of methods to prevent and punish athletes who use PEDs. For example, many sports organizations have implemented drug testing policies, which require athletes to submit to drug tests on a regular basis. Additionally, organizations may impose sanctions on athletes who are found to have used PEDs, such as suspensions or financial penalties. Finally, organizations may also use education and awareness campaigns to inform athletes about the risks of using PEDs.

The use of PEDs in professional sports has had a variety of consequences. On the one hand, the use of PEDs has led to a decline in the integrity of professional sports, as athletes who use PEDs gain an unfair advantage over their opponents. Additionally, the use of PEDs has led to a decline in fan interest, as some fans may be put off by the idea of athletes using drugs to gain an advantage. On the other hand, the use of PEDs has led to an increase in the physical performance of athletes, as PEDs allow athletes to push their bodies to new levels.


Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow the use of PEDs in professional sports is a difficult one. On the one hand, PEDs can provide athletes with a competitive edge, allowing them to perform at higher levels. On the other hand, the use of PEDs can lead to a decline in the integrity of professional sports, as well as a decline in fan interest. Ultimately, it is up to the organizations and governing bodies of professional sports to decide whether or not to allow the use of PEDs.