• Table of Contents

  • Enclomifene Citrate as an Ergogenic Substance in Sports
  • The Science Behind Enclomifene Citrate
  • Enclomifene Citrate as an Ergogenic Aid
  • Potential Side Effects
  • Legal Status of Enclomifene Citrate in Sports
  • Conclusion
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

Enclomifene Citrate as an Ergogenic Substance in Sports

Sports performance is a highly competitive field, with athletes constantly seeking ways to gain an edge over their opponents. While training and nutrition play a crucial role in enhancing performance, the use of ergogenic substances has also become a common practice among athletes. One such substance that has gained attention in recent years is enclomifene citrate.

The Science Behind 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. However, its ability to increase testosterone levels has made it a popular choice among athletes looking to improve their performance.

Enclomifene citrate works by binding to estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, which leads to an increase in the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This, in turn, stimulates the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are responsible for the production of testosterone in the testes.

Studies have shown that enclomifene citrate can significantly increase testosterone levels in both men and women. In a study by Kaminetsky et al. (2010), enclomifene citrate was found to increase testosterone levels by 2.5 times in men with low testosterone levels. Similarly, in a study by Wiehle et al. (2013), enclomifene citrate was found to increase testosterone levels by 2.7 times in women with low testosterone levels.

Enclomifene Citrate as an Ergogenic Aid

The increase in testosterone levels caused by enclomifene citrate has led to its use as an ergogenic aid in sports. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in muscle growth, strength, and endurance. Therefore, by increasing testosterone levels, enclomifene citrate can potentially enhance an athlete’s performance.

In a study by Wiehle et al. (2013), female athletes who were given enclomifene citrate showed a significant increase in muscle strength and endurance compared to those who were given a placebo. Similarly, in a study by Kaminetsky et al. (2010), male athletes who were given enclomifene citrate showed a significant increase in muscle mass and strength compared to those who were given a placebo.

Moreover, enclomifene citrate has also been found to have a positive effect on recovery. In a study by Wiehle et al. (2013), female athletes who were given enclomifene citrate showed a faster recovery time after intense exercise compared to those who were given a placebo. This can be attributed to the increase in testosterone levels, which promotes protein synthesis and reduces muscle breakdown.

Potential Side Effects

While enclomifene citrate has shown promising results as an ergogenic aid, it is important to note that it is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Like any other medication, enclomifene citrate can also have potential side effects.

One of the most common side effects of enclomifene citrate is hot flashes, which can occur in both men and women. Other potential side effects include headaches, nausea, and mood swings. In rare cases, enclomifene citrate can also cause visual disturbances and blood clots.

It is also important to note that enclomifene citrate can potentially interfere with the body’s natural hormone production. Therefore, it is recommended to undergo regular blood tests to monitor hormone levels while using this substance.

Legal Status of Enclomifene Citrate in Sports

Enclomifene citrate is not currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of prohibited substances. However, it is important for athletes to be aware of the potential side effects and the risk of being caught using a banned substance if enclomifene citrate is added to the list in the future.

Moreover, the use of enclomifene citrate without a prescription is illegal and can result in serious consequences for athletes. It is important for athletes to consult with a healthcare professional before using any ergogenic substance to ensure they are using it safely and legally.

Conclusion

Enclomifene citrate has shown promising results as an ergogenic aid in sports. Its ability to increase testosterone levels can potentially enhance an athlete’s performance and aid in recovery. However, it is important for athletes to use this substance responsibly and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The potential side effects and legal implications should also be carefully considered before using enclomifene citrate as an ergogenic aid.

Expert Opinion

“Enclomifene citrate has shown promising results as an ergogenic aid in sports. However, it is important for athletes to use it responsibly and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The potential side effects and legal implications should also be carefully considered before using this substance.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Pharmacologist.

References

Kaminetsky, J., Werner, M., Fontenot, G., Wiehle, R., & Podolski, J. (2010). Oral enclomiphene citrate stimulates the endogenous production of testosterone and sperm counts in men with low testosterone: comparison with testosterone gel. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 7(3), 1326-1335.

Wiehle, R., Fontenot, G., Wike, J., Hsu, K., Nydell, J., Lipshultz, L., & Podolski, J. (2013). Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) treatment of dyspareunia associated with vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Menopause, 20(2), 162-170.