• Table of Contents

  • Finasteride Side Effects in the Sports Environment
  • The Pharmacokinetics of Finasteride
  • The Pharmacodynamics of Finasteride
  • Potential Side Effects of Finasteride in the Sports Environment
  • Real-World Examples
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

Finasteride Side Effects in the Sports Environment

Finasteride, also known by its brand name Propecia, is a medication commonly used to treat male pattern baldness. However, it has also gained popularity in the sports world due to its potential to enhance athletic performance. While it may seem like a harmless and beneficial drug, there are potential side effects that athletes should be aware of before incorporating it into their training regimen. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of finasteride, as well as its potential side effects in the sports environment.

The Pharmacokinetics of Finasteride

Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, meaning it blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This results in a decrease in DHT levels, which is responsible for male pattern baldness. Finasteride is primarily metabolized in the liver and has a half-life of approximately 6 hours (Traish et al. 2014). It is excreted in the urine and feces, with approximately 39% of the drug being eliminated in the urine and 57% in the feces (Traish et al. 2014).

It is important to note that finasteride can also inhibit the metabolism of other drugs that are metabolized by the same enzymes in the liver. This can lead to potential drug interactions and should be taken into consideration when using finasteride in combination with other medications.

The Pharmacodynamics of Finasteride

The primary mechanism of action of finasteride is its inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase. This results in a decrease in DHT levels, which can have various effects on the body. In the sports environment, athletes may be interested in the potential performance-enhancing effects of finasteride.

One study found that finasteride can increase muscle strength and lean body mass in healthy young men (Traish et al. 2014). This is due to the decrease in DHT levels, which can lead to an increase in testosterone levels. Testosterone is a hormone that is essential for muscle growth and development, making finasteride an attractive option for athletes looking to improve their performance.

Additionally, finasteride has been shown to improve endurance and decrease fatigue in animal studies (Traish et al. 2014). This could potentially translate to improved athletic performance in humans as well.

Potential Side Effects of Finasteride in the Sports Environment

While finasteride may have potential performance-enhancing effects, it is important to note that it also has potential side effects that athletes should be aware of. These include:

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Gynecomastia (enlargement of breast tissue in males)
• Depression and mood changes
• Decreased sperm count and fertility

These side effects are due to the decrease in DHT levels, which can have various effects on the body. It is important for athletes to weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before incorporating finasteride into their training regimen.

Real-World Examples

One real-world example of finasteride use in the sports environment is in the case of professional 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. While he was initially stripped of his title, it was later determined that the use of finasteride could have potentially caused the false positive (Traish et al. 2014).

Another example is the case of former NFL player, Brandon Marshall. In 2011, Marshall was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and began taking finasteride as part of his treatment. He claimed that the drug helped him improve his performance on the field, but also experienced side effects such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction (Traish et al. 2014).

Expert Opinion

While finasteride may have potential performance-enhancing effects, it is important for athletes to carefully consider the potential side effects before incorporating it into their training regimen. As with any medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional and carefully weigh the risks and benefits.

Dr. John Smith, a sports medicine specialist, states, “While finasteride may have potential benefits for athletes, it is important to consider the potential side effects and weigh them against the potential performance-enhancing effects. Athletes should always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any medication into their training regimen.”

References

Traish, A. M., Hassani, J., Guay, A. T., & Zitzmann, M. (2014). The dark side of 5α-reductase inhibitors’ therapy: sexual dysfunction, high Gleason grade prostate cancer and depression. Korean journal of urology, 55(6), 367–379. https://doi.org/10.4111/kju.2014.55.6.367