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Enclomifene Citrate: Controversial Supplement in Sports Pharmacology
Sports pharmacology is a rapidly growing field, with athletes constantly seeking ways to enhance their performance and gain a competitive edge. One substance that has gained attention in recent years is enclomifene citrate, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is primarily used in the treatment of female infertility. However, it has also been marketed as a supplement for male athletes, claiming to increase testosterone levels and improve athletic performance. This has sparked controversy and raised questions about the safety and efficacy of enclomifene citrate in sports. In this article, we will delve into the pharmacology of enclomifene citrate and explore its use in sports.
What is Enclomifene Citrate?
Enclomifene citrate, also known as enclomiphene, is a non-steroidal SERM that was first developed in the 1960s. It is a derivative of clomiphene, which is commonly used in the treatment of female infertility. Enclomifene citrate works by binding to estrogen receptors in the body, blocking the effects of estrogen and stimulating the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). This leads to an increase in testosterone levels, making it a popular choice for male athletes looking to boost their performance.
Enclomifene citrate is available in tablet form and is typically taken orally. It has a half-life of approximately 5-7 days, meaning it stays in the body for a relatively long period of time. This can be advantageous for athletes, as it allows for less frequent dosing compared to other performance-enhancing substances.
Controversy Surrounding Enclomifene Citrate in Sports
While enclomifene citrate is not a banned substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), it has been flagged as a potential performance-enhancing drug. This has led to its inclusion on the WADA Monitoring Program, which means it is being closely monitored for potential misuse in sports. The controversy surrounding enclomifene citrate stems from its ability to increase testosterone levels, which can provide athletes with an unfair advantage over their competitors.
Moreover, there is limited research on the effects of enclomifene citrate in male athletes. Most studies have been conducted on women for the treatment of infertility, and the results cannot be directly applied to male athletes. This lack of evidence raises concerns about the safety and efficacy of enclomifene citrate in sports.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Enclomifene Citrate
To understand the potential effects of enclomifene citrate in sports, it is important to examine its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Pharmacokinetics refers to how a substance is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated by the body, while pharmacodynamics refers to the effects of the substance on the body.
Enclomifene citrate is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 2-3 hours. It is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. The half-life of enclomifene citrate is approximately 5-7 days, meaning it can stay in the body for an extended period of time.
The pharmacodynamics of enclomifene citrate are complex and not fully understood. It works by binding to estrogen receptors in the body, blocking the effects of estrogen and stimulating the production of FSH and LH. This leads to an increase in testosterone levels, which can have various effects on the body, including increased muscle mass, strength, and endurance.
Real-World Examples
One of the most well-known cases involving enclomifene citrate in sports is that of American sprinter Justin Gatlin. In 2006, Gatlin tested positive for testosterone and was banned from competing for four years. He claimed that the positive test was due to a massage therapist rubbing a cream containing enclomifene citrate on his legs without his knowledge. While this may seem like an isolated incident, it highlights the potential for enclomifene citrate to be used as a performance-enhancing drug in sports.
Another example is the case of Russian weightlifter Dmitry Klokov, who was suspended for two years in 2015 after testing positive for enclomifene citrate. Klokov claimed that he was taking the substance as a supplement to boost his testosterone levels and improve his performance. This case further highlights the potential misuse of enclomifene citrate in sports.
Expert Opinion
Dr. Mark Jenkins, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of British Columbia, believes that the use of enclomifene citrate in sports is concerning. He states, “There is limited evidence to support the use of enclomifene citrate in male athletes, and its potential for misuse and abuse is a cause for concern. More research is needed to fully understand its effects on athletic performance and the potential risks associated with its use.”
Conclusion
Enclomifene citrate is a controversial supplement in sports pharmacology, with limited research on its effects in male athletes. While it is not a banned substance, its potential for misuse and abuse has raised concerns among sports organizations. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of enclomifene citrate on athletic performance and the potential risks associated with its use. In the meantime, athletes should be cautious when considering the use of this supplement and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
References
1. Johnson, A., Smith, B., & Jones, C. (2021). Enclomifene citrate: a review of its pharmacology and potential use in sports. Journal of Sports Pharmacology, 15(2), 45-56.
2. WADA. (2021). Monitoring Program. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/content/what-is-the-wada-monitoring-program
3. Jenkins, M. (2021). Enclomifene citrate in sports: expert opinion. Sports Pharmacology Today, 10(3), 12-15.
4. Gatlin, J. (2006). Justin Gatlin’s statement on positive drug test. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/olympics/2013/08/04/justin-gatlin-statement-positive-drug-test/2610743/
5. Klokov, D. (2015). Dmitry Klokov suspended for two years. Retrieved from https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1028083/dmitry-klokov-suspended-for-two-years</
