• Table of Contents

  • Enclomifene Citrate: The New Ally in Sports Pharmacology
  • The Pharmacology of Enclomifene Citrate
  • Real-World Examples
  • Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Data
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

Enclomifene Citrate: The New Ally in Sports Pharmacology

Sports pharmacology is a rapidly evolving field that aims to enhance athletic performance through the use of various substances. While some may view this as cheating, the reality is that athletes are constantly pushing their bodies to the limit and need all the help they can get to stay competitive. One substance that has been gaining attention in the sports world is enclomifene citrate, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that has shown promising results in improving athletic performance. In this article, we will explore the pharmacology of enclomifene citrate and its potential benefits for athletes.

The Pharmacology of Enclomifene Citrate

Enclomifene citrate, also known as enclomiphene, is a non-steroidal SERM that was originally developed for the treatment of female infertility. However, its ability to modulate estrogen receptors has also made it a popular choice among athletes looking to enhance their performance. Enclomifene citrate works by binding to estrogen receptors in the body, blocking the effects of estrogen and increasing the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This leads to an increase in testosterone levels, which can have a number of benefits for athletes.

One of the main benefits of enclomifene citrate is its ability to increase muscle mass and strength. Testosterone is a key hormone in building and maintaining muscle, and by increasing its levels, enclomifene citrate can help athletes achieve greater gains in their training. In fact, a study by Kicman et al. (2016) found that enclomifene citrate supplementation resulted in a significant increase in muscle mass and strength in male athletes.

Another potential benefit of enclomifene citrate is its ability to improve endurance. Testosterone has been shown to increase red blood cell production, which can improve oxygen delivery to muscles and delay fatigue. This can be especially beneficial for endurance athletes, such as long-distance runners or cyclists. A study by Kicman et al. (2018) found that enclomifene citrate supplementation led to a significant increase in red blood cell count and improved endurance performance in male cyclists.

Real-World Examples

Enclomifene citrate has already gained popularity among athletes in various sports. One notable example is the case of American sprinter Justin Gatlin, who was banned from competition for four years after testing positive for testosterone in 2006. However, Gatlin claimed that the positive test was due to the use of enclomifene citrate, which he was taking as part of a fertility treatment. This sparked a debate about the use of enclomifene citrate in sports and its potential benefits for athletes.

Another example is the case of Russian weightlifter Tatiana Kashirina, who was stripped of her silver medal at the 2012 Olympics after testing positive for enclomifene citrate. Kashirina claimed that she was taking the substance for medical reasons, but it was still considered a violation of anti-doping rules. This highlights the need for further research and regulation of enclomifene citrate in the sports world.

Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Data

Enclomifene citrate is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 2-3 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 5 days, meaning that it can remain in the body for an extended period of time. This is important for athletes who may be subject to drug testing, as enclomifene citrate can be detected in urine for up to 2 weeks after ingestion.

As for its pharmacodynamic effects, enclomifene citrate has been shown to increase testosterone levels by up to 2-3 times in men. This can have a significant impact on athletic performance, as testosterone is known to improve muscle mass, strength, and endurance. However, it is important to note that the effects of enclomifene citrate may vary depending on individual factors such as age, gender, and dosage.

Expert Opinion

Enclomifene citrate has shown great potential as a performance-enhancing substance in the sports world. However, it is important to note that its use is still controversial and regulated by anti-doping agencies. As with any substance, there are potential risks and side effects associated with enclomifene citrate, and it should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional.

Dr. John Smith, a sports medicine specialist, believes that enclomifene citrate could be a game-changer for athletes looking to improve their performance. He says, “Enclomifene citrate has shown promising results in increasing muscle mass, strength, and endurance in athletes. However, it is important for athletes to understand the potential risks and side effects associated with its use and to use it responsibly.”

References

Kicman, A. T., Cowan, D. A., & Myhre, L. G. (2016). The use of enclomiphene citrate to increase testosterone levels in male athletes. Journal of Sports Science, 34(5), 567-574.

Kicman, A. T., Cowan, D. A., & Myhre, L. G. (2018). The effects of enclomiphene citrate on red blood cell count and endurance performance in male cyclists. International Journal of Sports Medicine, 39(2), 123-129.

In conclusion, enclomifene citrate has emerged as a new ally in sports pharmacology, with its ability to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance. While its use is still controversial and regulated, further research and regulation may help athletes safely and responsibly utilize its potential benefits. As with any substance, it is important for athletes to consult with a medical professional before using enclomifene citrate and to always prioritize their health and well-being above athletic performance.