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The Effects of Finasteride on Sports Performance
Finasteride, also known by its brand name Propecia, is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, it has also gained attention in the sports world due to its potential effects on performance. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of finasteride and its potential impact on sports performance.
Pharmacokinetics of Finasteride
Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, meaning it blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This is achieved by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for this conversion. As a result, finasteride decreases the levels of DHT in the body.
When taken orally, finasteride is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 2 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 6 hours, meaning it takes 6 hours for the body to eliminate half of the drug. The majority of finasteride is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.
It is important to note that finasteride has a long duration of action, with its effects lasting for several days. This is due to the fact that it irreversibly binds to the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, meaning it cannot be easily displaced.
Pharmacodynamics of Finasteride
The primary mechanism of action of finasteride is its inhibition of DHT production. DHT is a potent androgen that is responsible for the development of male characteristics, including muscle growth and strength. By decreasing DHT levels, finasteride may potentially impact sports performance.
One study conducted on male athletes found that finasteride use was associated with a decrease in muscle strength and an increase in body fat percentage (Kicman et al. 2008). This is likely due to the decrease in DHT levels, which can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in fat deposition.
Additionally, finasteride may also have an impact on endurance performance. DHT has been shown to increase red blood cell production, which can improve oxygen delivery to muscles and enhance endurance. By inhibiting DHT production, finasteride may potentially decrease red blood cell production and therefore, decrease endurance performance.
Real-World Examples
Finasteride has gained attention in the sports world due to its potential use as a performance-enhancing drug. In 2015, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) added finasteride to its list of prohibited substances in sports. This decision was based on the potential for finasteride to enhance performance and its widespread use among athletes.
One notable example of finasteride use in sports is the case of American cyclist, Floyd Landis. In 2006, Landis tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone during the Tour de France. He claimed that the elevated levels were due to his use of finasteride, which he was taking for hair loss. However, the Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected this claim and Landis was stripped of his title and banned from professional cycling for two years (Landis v. USADA, 2007).
Expert Opinion
While there is limited research on the effects of finasteride on sports performance, the available evidence suggests that it may have a negative impact. By inhibiting DHT production, finasteride may decrease muscle strength and endurance, which are crucial for athletic performance. Additionally, its use as a performance-enhancing drug is prohibited by WADA, further highlighting its potential impact on sports performance.
References
Kicman, A. T., Cowan, D. A., Myhre, L., & Sannes, M. (2008). Effect of finasteride on doping markers and androgenic steroids in male athletes. Clinical Chemistry, 54(10), 1655-1663.
Landis v. USADA, 2007. Court of Arbitration for Sport. Retrieved from https://www.tas-cas.org/fileadmin/user_upload/CAS_Award_Landis.pdf