EFFICACY OF VELVET ANTLER SUPPLEMENTS IN PREVENTING THROMBOSIS DURING INTENSE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Abstract

Aim. This study investigates the protective effects of velvet antler supplements on the hemostatic system and the microcirculatory bed during intense physical activity. Materials and methods. Sixty male Wistar rats were exposed to either 8-hour physical activity alone (control group) or alongside a 30-day pre-treatment regimen of velvet antler products (experimental group). Comparative analyses also included the data obtained from intact animals. Results. The results obtained revealed that velvet antler products significantly mitigated the adverse effects of physical exercise, including thrombocytopenia, enhanced platelet aggregation, and altered fibrinogen levels. Furthermore, it preserved the blood's fibrinolytic and anticoagulant capabilities, normalized microvascular function, and maintained nitric oxide production by endothelial cells. Conclusions. These findings underscore the potential of velvet antler supplements in reducing thrombotic risks associated with intense physical activities, except for microvascular congestion.