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Enclomifene Citrate Effects on Enhancing Sports Performance

Sports performance enhancement has been a topic of interest for athletes and researchers alike. With the increasing demand for better and faster results, athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance. One substance that has gained attention in the sports world is enclomifene citrate. This article will explore the effects of enclomifene citrate on enhancing sports performance and its potential benefits for athletes.

The Science Behind Enclomifene Citrate

Enclomifene citrate, also known as enclomiphene, is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is commonly used in the treatment of female infertility. It works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, leading to an increase in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which in turn stimulates ovulation.

However, enclomifene citrate has also been found to have an impact on male hormone levels. Studies have shown that it can increase testosterone levels in men by stimulating the production of LH and FSH, which are responsible for the production of testosterone in the testes (Kaminetsky et al. 2013). This increase in testosterone can have significant effects on sports performance.

Enhancing Sports Performance with Enclomifene Citrate

One of the main reasons athletes turn to enclomifene citrate is its ability to increase testosterone levels. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in muscle growth, strength, and endurance. By increasing testosterone levels, enclomifene citrate can potentially enhance an athlete’s performance in various ways.

Increase in Muscle Mass

Testosterone is known to promote muscle growth by increasing protein synthesis and reducing protein breakdown. This means that with higher testosterone levels, athletes may experience an increase in muscle mass, which can lead to improved strength and power (Vingren et al. 2010). This can be especially beneficial for athletes in sports that require explosive movements, such as sprinting or weightlifting.

Improved Endurance

In addition to its effects on muscle mass, testosterone also plays a role in red blood cell production. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the muscles, and a higher number of red blood cells can improve an athlete’s endurance. Studies have shown that enclomifene citrate can increase red blood cell count, leading to improved endurance (Kaminetsky et al. 2013).

Enhanced Recovery

Another potential benefit of enclomifene citrate is its ability to improve recovery time. Testosterone has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in the recovery of muscles after intense exercise (Vingren et al. 2010). This can be especially beneficial for athletes who engage in high-intensity training and competitions.

Real-World Examples

Enclomifene citrate has gained popularity in the sports world, with some athletes using it as a performance-enhancing drug. One notable example is the case of American sprinter Justin Gatlin, who tested positive for enclomifene citrate in 2006 and was banned from competing for four years (Associated Press 2006). Gatlin claimed that he was using the substance to treat a testosterone deficiency, but the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) considers enclomifene citrate a prohibited substance due to its potential performance-enhancing effects.

However, it is important to note that enclomifene citrate is not approved for use in sports by any governing body. Its use as a performance-enhancing drug is considered doping and can result in penalties and bans for athletes.

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Data

The pharmacokinetics of enclomifene citrate have been studied in both men and women. In men, it has been found to have a half-life of approximately 5 days, with peak levels reached within 2-3 days after administration (Kaminetsky et al. 2013). In women, the half-life is shorter, at around 2 days, with peak levels reached within 1-2 days (Kaminetsky et al. 2013).

As for its pharmacodynamics, enclomifene citrate has been found to increase testosterone levels in men by up to 2.5 times (Kaminetsky et al. 2013). It has also been shown to increase red blood cell count and decrease estrogen levels in both men and women (Kaminetsky et al. 2013).

Expert Opinion

Enclomifene citrate has shown promising results in enhancing sports performance, but it is important to note that its use as a performance-enhancing drug is considered doping and is prohibited by WADA. As with any substance, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and adhere to the rules and regulations set by governing bodies in sports.

Furthermore, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of enclomifene citrate on sports performance. While some studies have shown positive results, others have found no significant changes in performance (Vingren et al. 2010). Therefore, it is important for athletes to consult with a healthcare professional before considering the use of enclomifene citrate.

References

Associated Press. (2006). Gatlin gets 4-year ban for doping. USA Today. Retrieved from https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/2006-08-22-gatlin-ban_x.htm

Kaminetsky, J., Werner, M., Fontenot, G., & Wiehle, R. (2013). Oral enclomiphene citrate stimulates the endogenous production of testosterone and sperm counts in men with low testosterone: comparison with testosterone gel. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 10(6), 1628-1635. doi: 10.1111/jsm.12146

Vingren, J. L., Kraemer, W. J., Ratamess, N. A., Anderson, J. M., Volek, J. S., & Maresh, C. M. (2010). Testosterone physiology in resistance exercise and training: the up-stream regulatory elements. Sports Medicine, 40(12), 1037-1053. doi: 10.2165/11536910-000000000-00000