Using drugs to bulk up is too risky warns coroner after rugby player, 28, is found dead
A CORONER has warned of the dangers of taking performance-enhancing drugs after a rugby player with no medical problems died having taking a stimulant to boost his physique.
Freddie Dibben, 28, an engineer, was found dead in bed by his father after taking Clenbuterol, not a steroid but a steroid-like stimulant drug normally used to treat problems such as asthma. It is commonly used by bodybuilders as it is believed that it can help burn fat while maintaining muscle.
A coroners’ court heard Mr Dibben had been going to the gym daily and drinking protein shakes for a number of years but his parents had no idea that he had been ordering drugs online.
Clenbuterol was found among a range of anabolic steroids Mr Dibben had ordered from the internet.
Dr Victoria Eliot, a pathologist, gave Mr Dibben’s cause of death as dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart’s ability to pump blood decreases due to an enlarged and weakened valve.
She said: “These drugs have some benefits – in inverted commas – in terms of physique but also have sideeffects which can affect the heart.”
Grahame Short, the coroner at Winchester, Hants, said: “Young men in particular are keen to improve their physique and some resort to steroids, which is a quick and easy way to put on weight and enhance muscles.
“Prior to his death, Mr Dibben was a fit man with no medical conditions. I think this case reflects how dangerous these drugs are.” He recorded a conclusion of misadventure.
Following the inquest, Lorraine, his mother, said: “Freddie was an intelligent lad. He wasn’t stupid but he thought he was in control. We want to inform other young men to make sure they don’t go down this route. These drugs will damage your heart in such a way that you cannot undo. The risks are just not worth it. If we could save one man, it would be worth it.”
Mr Dibben played prop for the third XV at Ellingham and Ringwood Rugby Club, Hants, for eight years.