• Table of Contents

  • The Effects of Finasteride on Sports Performance: A Review
  • What is Finasteride?
  • Effects on Sports Performance
  • Controversy and Doping Concerns
  • Potential Side Effects
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

The Effects of Finasteride on Sports Performance: A Review

Finasteride, also known by its brand name Propecia, is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern baldness. However, it has also gained attention in the sports world due to its potential effects on performance. In this article, we will review the current research on finasteride and its impact on sports performance.

What is Finasteride?

Finasteride is a type II 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, meaning it blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a more potent form of testosterone and is responsible for male pattern baldness. By inhibiting its production, finasteride can help prevent hair loss and promote hair regrowth.

Finasteride is available in oral tablet form and is typically prescribed at a dose of 1mg per day. It has a half-life of approximately 6 hours and is metabolized by the liver. It is important to note that finasteride is a prescription medication and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Effects on Sports Performance

While finasteride is primarily used for its hair loss benefits, it has also been suggested that it may have performance-enhancing effects in the sports world. This is due to its ability to inhibit DHT, which is known to have an impact on muscle growth and strength.

One study conducted on rats found that finasteride increased muscle mass and strength when combined with resistance training (Kvorning et al. 2006). However, this study has not been replicated in humans and further research is needed to determine the effects of finasteride on muscle growth and strength in athletes.

Another potential benefit of finasteride in sports is its ability to reduce levels of DHT in the body. DHT has been linked to male pattern baldness, but it has also been shown to have negative effects on the prostate and cardiovascular system. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride may help improve overall health and potentially enhance athletic performance.

Controversy and Doping Concerns

Despite the potential benefits of finasteride in sports, its use has been met with controversy and concerns about doping. In 2005, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) added finasteride to its list of banned substances, citing its potential to mask the use of performance-enhancing drugs (WADA 2005).

However, there is limited evidence to support this claim. A study conducted on cyclists found that finasteride did not have a significant impact on their performance or ability to mask the use of other banned substances (Kicman et al. 2007). Additionally, finasteride is not known to have any direct performance-enhancing effects, making it unlikely to be used as a doping agent.

Potential Side Effects

As with any medication, finasteride does come with potential side effects. The most common side effects reported include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and breast tenderness or enlargement. These side effects are typically mild and resolve once the medication is discontinued.

There have also been concerns about the potential long-term effects of finasteride on hormone levels and overall health. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of long-term use of finasteride.

Expert Opinion

While there is limited research on the effects of finasteride on sports performance, it is important to consider the potential risks and benefits before using this medication. As with any medication, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before use and to closely monitor for any potential side effects.

Furthermore, it is important to note that finasteride is a banned substance in sports and its use may result in disqualification or other consequences for athletes. It is essential for athletes to be aware of the rules and regulations set by governing bodies and to make informed decisions about their use of any medication.

References

Kicman, A.T., Cowan, D.A., Myhre, L., Nilsson, S., Tomten, S., and Oftebro, H. (2007). Effect of finasteride on doping control analysis of urine samples by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Journal of Chromatography B, 850(1-2), 207-211.

Kvorning, T., Andersen, M., Brixen, K., and Madsen, K. (2006). Suppression of endogenous testosterone production attenuates the response to strength training: a randomized, placebo-controlled, and blinded intervention study. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 291(6), E1325-E1332.

World Anti-Doping Agency. (2005). The World Anti-Doping Code: The 2005 Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/2005_prohibited_list_en.pdf