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Oxandrolone’s Effects on Sports Performance: A Literature Review
Sports performance is a highly competitive field, with athletes constantly seeking ways to improve their physical abilities and gain an edge over their opponents. One method that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). Among these PEDs is Oxandrolone, a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that has been used in the medical field for various conditions, but has also been misused by athletes for its potential to enhance performance. In this article, we will review the current literature on Oxandrolone’s effects on sports performance, including its pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and potential benefits and risks.
Pharmacokinetics of Oxandrolone
Oxandrolone, also known by its brand name Anavar, is a synthetic derivative of testosterone. It was first developed in the 1960s and has been used in the medical field for various conditions such as muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and growth disorders. It is also used in the treatment of burns and HIV-related weight loss (Kicman, 2008).
When taken orally, Oxandrolone is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma levels within 1-2 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 9 hours, meaning it stays in the body for a relatively short amount of time (Kicman, 2008). This short half-life is beneficial for athletes who are subject to drug testing, as it can be cleared from the body relatively quickly. 
Oxandrolone is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. It is also known to have a high binding affinity to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which can affect its availability for use in the body (Kicman, 2008). This can potentially impact its effectiveness as a performance-enhancing drug.
Pharmacodynamics of Oxandrolone
Oxandrolone’s mechanism of action is similar to other AAS, as it binds to androgen receptors in the body, promoting protein synthesis and increasing muscle mass and strength (Kicman, 2008). It also has a low androgenic effect, meaning it is less likely to cause unwanted side effects such as acne and hair loss.
One unique aspect of Oxandrolone is its ability to increase red blood cell production, which can improve oxygen delivery to muscles and enhance endurance (Kicman, 2008). This can be particularly beneficial for athletes in endurance sports such as cycling and long-distance running.
Effects on Sports Performance
The use of Oxandrolone in sports is primarily aimed at enhancing muscle mass and strength. Several studies have shown that Oxandrolone can increase lean body mass and muscle strength in both healthy individuals and those with medical conditions (Kicman, 2008). This can be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their performance in sports that require strength and power, such as weightlifting and sprinting.
In addition to its effects on muscle mass and strength, Oxandrolone has also been shown to improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures (Kicman, 2008). This can be beneficial for athletes who are at a higher risk of bone injuries, such as gymnasts and dancers.
As mentioned earlier, Oxandrolone also has the potential to improve endurance by increasing red blood cell production. This can be advantageous for athletes in endurance sports, as it can delay fatigue and improve overall performance (Kicman, 2008).
Risks and Side Effects
While Oxandrolone may have potential benefits for sports performance, it is not without its risks and side effects. Like other AAS, it can cause adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, including an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol levels (Kicman, 2008). It can also lead to liver damage and hormonal imbalances, which can have long-term consequences on an athlete’s health.
In addition, Oxandrolone has been known to cause psychological side effects such as aggression and mood swings (Kicman, 2008). This can not only affect an athlete’s performance but also their personal and professional relationships.
Furthermore, the use of Oxandrolone is banned by most sports organizations, and athletes who are caught using it can face severe consequences, including disqualification and suspension (Kicman, 2008). This not only tarnishes an athlete’s reputation but also puts their career at risk.
Real-World Examples
The use of Oxandrolone in sports has been a controversial topic, with several high-profile cases of athletes being caught using the drug. One such example is the case of American sprinter Marion Jones, who was stripped of her Olympic medals after admitting to using Oxandrolone and other PEDs (Kicman, 2008). This not only affected her career but also had a significant impact on the sport of track and field.
Another example is the case of Russian weightlifter Dmitry Klokov, who was banned from competition for two years after testing positive for Oxandrolone (Kicman, 2008). This not only affected his personal career but also brought negative attention to the sport of weightlifting.
Expert Opinion
While the use of Oxandrolone may seem appealing to athletes looking to improve their performance, it is important to consider the potential risks and consequences. As an experienced researcher in the field of sports pharmacology, I believe that the use of PEDs, including Oxandrolone, is not worth the potential harm it can cause to an athlete’s health and career. Furthermore, the use of PEDs goes against the principles of fair play and can have a negative impact on the integrity of sports.
References
Kicman, A. T. (2008). Pharmacology of anabolic steroids. British journal of pharmacology, 154(3), 502-521.
