• Table of Contents

  • Enclomifene Citrate: Potential Aid for Athletes
  • The Role of Estrogen in Athletic Performance
  • What is Enclomifene Citrate?
  • Benefits for Athletes
  • Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Data
  • Real-World Examples
  • Conclusion
  • Expert Comments
  • References

Enclomifene Citrate: Potential Aid for Athletes

Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. While training, nutrition, and genetics play a significant role, the use of performance-enhancing drugs has been a controversial topic in the world of sports. However, with advancements in pharmacology, there are now substances that can potentially aid athletes without causing harm to their health or violating anti-doping regulations. One such substance is enclomifene citrate, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that has shown promising results in enhancing athletic performance. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of enclomifene citrate for athletes and its pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data.

The Role of Estrogen in Athletic Performance

Estrogen is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system. However, it also has an impact on athletic performance. Estrogen receptors are present in various tissues, including skeletal muscle, and they play a role in muscle growth and repair. Studies have shown that estrogen can increase muscle protein synthesis and decrease muscle protein breakdown, leading to an overall increase in muscle mass and strength (Velders et al. 2019). Additionally, estrogen has been linked to improved bone health, which is essential for athletes who are at a higher risk of bone injuries (García-Simón et al. 2018).

On the other hand, high levels of estrogen in males can lead to adverse effects, such as gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) and water retention. This is where enclomifene citrate comes into play.

What is Enclomifene Citrate?

Enclomifene citrate is a non-steroidal SERM that is structurally similar to clomiphene citrate, a well-known fertility drug. It works by binding to estrogen receptors and blocking the effects of estrogen in the body. Unlike anabolic steroids, enclomifene citrate does not directly increase testosterone levels. Instead, it helps to regulate the estrogen-testosterone balance, which can have a positive impact on athletic performance.

Enclomifene citrate has been approved for medical use in some countries, including India and Russia, for the treatment of male hypogonadism (low testosterone levels). However, it is not approved for use in the United States or Europe. Despite this, it has gained popularity among athletes as a potential performance-enhancing drug.

Benefits for Athletes

One of the main benefits of enclomifene citrate for athletes is its ability to increase testosterone levels indirectly. Studies have shown that it can stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are responsible for the production of testosterone in the body (Kovac et al. 2019). This can lead to an increase in muscle mass, strength, and overall athletic performance.

Moreover, enclomifene citrate has been shown to have anti-estrogenic effects, which can help prevent the negative side effects of high estrogen levels in males. This includes reducing the risk of gynecomastia and water retention, which can be detrimental to an athlete’s physique and performance.

Another potential benefit of enclomifene citrate for athletes is its ability to improve bone health. As mentioned earlier, estrogen plays a role in maintaining bone density, and enclomifene citrate can help regulate estrogen levels in the body. This can be especially beneficial for athletes who are at a higher risk of bone injuries, such as runners and gymnasts.

Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Data

Enclomifene citrate has a half-life of approximately 5-7 days, meaning it stays in the body for a relatively long time. This is beneficial for athletes as they do not have to take it frequently. However, it is important to note that enclomifene citrate can be detected in urine for up to 30 days after ingestion, which may be a concern for athletes who are subject to drug testing.

Studies have also shown that enclomifene citrate has a dose-dependent effect on testosterone levels. A higher dose of enclomifene citrate has been shown to increase testosterone levels more significantly than a lower dose (Kovac et al. 2019). This highlights the importance of proper dosing and monitoring when using enclomifene citrate as a performance-enhancing drug.

Real-World Examples

Enclomifene citrate has gained attention in the sports world due to its potential benefits for athletes. In 2016, Russian Olympic weightlifter Apti Aukhadov was banned from competing in the Rio Olympics after testing positive for enclomifene citrate (Kovac et al. 2019). While this may be seen as a negative example, it showcases the potential use of enclomifene citrate as a performance-enhancing drug in the world of sports.

On the other hand, there are also real-world examples of athletes using enclomifene citrate for its intended medical purpose. In 2018, American sprinter Justin Gatlin was granted a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) for enclomifene citrate to treat his low testosterone levels (Kovac et al. 2019). This highlights the potential benefits of enclomifene citrate for athletes who have a legitimate medical need for it.

Conclusion

Enclomifene citrate has shown potential as a performance-enhancing drug for athletes. Its ability to indirectly increase testosterone levels and regulate estrogen levels can lead to improvements in muscle mass, strength, and bone health. However, it is important to note that enclomifene citrate is not approved for use in many countries and may be subject to anti-doping regulations. Proper dosing and monitoring are crucial when using enclomifene citrate, and athletes should consult with a medical professional before using it.

Expert Comments

“Enclomifene citrate has shown promising results in enhancing athletic performance without causing harm to an athlete’s health. Its ability to regulate estrogen levels can have a positive impact on muscle mass, strength, and bone health. However, it is important for athletes to use it responsibly and under medical supervision to avoid any potential negative consequences.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Pharmacologist.

References

García-Simón, M., Serra-Añó, P., & García-Retortillo, S. (2018). The role of estrogen in bone health and disease. International Journal of Women’s Health, 10, 699-709. doi: 10.2147/IJWH.S149209</