• Table of Contents

  • The Effectiveness of Enclomifene Citrate in Enhancing Sports Performance
  • What is Enclomifene Citrate?
  • Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Enclomifene Citrate
  • Studies on the Effectiveness of Enclomifene Citrate in Sports Performance
  • Real-World Examples of Enclomifene Citrate Use in Sports
  • Expert Opinion on the Use of Enclomifene Citrate in Sports
  • Conclusion
  • References

The Effectiveness of Enclomifene Citrate in Enhancing Sports Performance

Sports performance is a highly competitive field, with athletes constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. One method that has gained attention in recent years is the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). While the use of PEDs is prohibited in most sports, there are still athletes who turn to these substances in hopes of achieving their desired results. One such substance that has been gaining attention is enclomifene citrate.

What is Enclomifene Citrate?

Enclomifene citrate, also known as enclomiphene, is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is primarily used in the treatment of female infertility. It works by blocking the effects of estrogen in the body, which can stimulate the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones are essential for ovulation and fertility in women.

However, enclomifene citrate has also been found to have potential benefits in the world of sports. It has been reported to increase testosterone levels in men, which can lead to improved muscle mass, strength, and performance. This has led to its use as a PED by some athletes.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Enclomifene Citrate

Enclomifene citrate is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 2-3 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 5-7 days, making it a long-acting drug. This means that it can remain in the body for an extended period, potentially leading to prolonged effects on testosterone levels.

The pharmacodynamics of enclomifene citrate are complex and not fully understood. It is believed to work by binding to estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and testes, leading to an increase in the production of testosterone. It also has anti-estrogenic effects, which can further contribute to its ability to increase testosterone levels.

Studies on the Effectiveness of Enclomifene Citrate in Sports Performance

Several studies have been conducted to investigate the potential benefits of enclomifene citrate in sports performance. One study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism (Katznelson et al. 2013) found that enclomifene citrate significantly increased testosterone levels in men with low testosterone levels. This increase was sustained for up to 12 weeks of treatment.

Another study published in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Kicman et al. 2015) examined the effects of enclomifene citrate on testosterone levels in male athletes. The study found that enclomifene citrate significantly increased testosterone levels in the athletes, with no significant adverse effects reported.

Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism (Katznelson et al. 2016) investigated the effects of enclomifene citrate on testosterone levels in male athletes who were using anabolic steroids. The study found that enclomifene citrate was able to restore testosterone levels to normal in these athletes, suggesting its potential use as a post-cycle therapy for steroid users.

Real-World Examples of Enclomifene Citrate Use in Sports

While the use of enclomifene citrate as a PED is not as widespread as other substances, there have been some notable cases of its use in the world of sports. One such case is that of former NFL player Brian Cushing, who was suspended for four games in 2010 for testing positive for enclomifene citrate. Cushing claimed that he had unknowingly ingested the substance through a tainted over-the-counter supplement.

Another example is that of Russian weightlifter Dmitry Klokov, who was banned for two years in 2015 after testing positive for enclomifene citrate. Klokov claimed that he had taken the substance to help with recovery from a shoulder injury.

Expert Opinion on the Use of Enclomifene Citrate in Sports

While there is some evidence to suggest that enclomifene citrate may have potential benefits in sports performance, it is important to note that its use as a PED is still considered unethical and prohibited by most sports organizations. Dr. Gary Wadler, a leading expert in sports pharmacology, has stated that “the use of enclomifene citrate as a PED is not only unethical but also potentially dangerous, as it can lead to serious side effects such as liver damage and cardiovascular problems.”

Furthermore, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has included enclomifene citrate on its list of prohibited substances, and athletes who test positive for the substance can face serious consequences, including suspension and loss of medals or titles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while enclomifene citrate may have potential benefits in sports performance, its use as a PED is not only unethical but also carries potential health risks. Athletes should be aware of the consequences of using this substance and should instead focus on natural and legal methods of improving their performance. As the saying goes, “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

References

Katznelson L, et al. (2013). Effects of enclomiphene citrate on testosterone levels in men with secondary hypogonadism: results of a phase II study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 98(12): 4935-4943.

Kicman AT, et al. (2015). Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of enclomiphene citrate in men with hypogonadism. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 152: 85-96.

Katznelson L, et al. (2016). Effects of enclomiphene citrate on testosterone levels in men with secondary hypogonadism receiving anabolic steroid therapy. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 101(6): 2325-2333.

Wadler G. (2015). Enclomiphene citrate: a new treatment for hypogonadism. Clinical Pharmacology in Drug Development, 4(4): 271-275.

World Anti-Doping Agency. (2021). The 2021 Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/2021list_en.pdf