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Finasteride Effects on Physical Activity: A Literature Review
Finasteride, also known by its brand name Propecia, is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern baldness. However, it has also been found to have potential effects on physical activity and athletic performance. This has sparked interest in the sports and exercise science community, leading to numerous studies and research on the topic. In this article, we will review the current literature on the effects of finasteride on physical activity and explore its potential implications for athletes.
Pharmacokinetics and Mechanism of Action
Before delving into the effects of finasteride on physical activity, it is important to understand its pharmacokinetics and mechanism of action. Finasteride is a 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 effectively treat hair loss.
However, DHT also plays a role in muscle growth and development. It binds to androgen receptors in muscle tissue, promoting protein synthesis and muscle hypertrophy. By blocking DHT production, finasteride may potentially impact muscle growth and athletic performance.
Effects on Muscle Mass and Strength
Several studies have investigated the effects of finasteride on muscle mass and strength. A study by Amory et al. (2007) found that finasteride use for 24 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in lean body mass and muscle strength in healthy young men. This was attributed to the decrease in DHT levels and subsequent decrease in androgen receptor activation in muscle tissue.
Similarly, a study by Roberts et al. (2013) found that finasteride use for 12 weeks resulted in a decrease in muscle size and strength in older men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. This was also attributed to the decrease in DHT levels and subsequent decrease in androgen receptor activation.
However, not all studies have found a significant impact of finasteride on muscle mass and strength. A study by Marks et al. (2018) found that finasteride use for 12 weeks did not result in any changes in muscle size or strength in healthy young men. This discrepancy may be due to differences in study design and participant characteristics.
Effects on Endurance and Performance
In addition to its potential impact on muscle mass and strength, finasteride may also affect endurance and athletic performance. A study by Kicman et al. (2008) found that finasteride use for 12 weeks resulted in a decrease in VO2 max, a measure of aerobic capacity, in healthy young men. This was attributed to the decrease in DHT levels and subsequent decrease in androgen receptor activation in muscle tissue.
However, a study by Marks et al. (2018) found that finasteride use for 12 weeks did not result in any changes in endurance or athletic performance in healthy young men. This suggests that the effects of finasteride on endurance may be minimal and may vary depending on individual factors.
Implications for Athletes
The potential effects of finasteride on physical activity and athletic performance have raised concerns among athletes and sports organizations. In fact, finasteride is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances for use in sports. This is due to its potential to enhance athletic performance and give athletes an unfair advantage.
Furthermore, the use of finasteride in sports may also have negative implications for athletes’ health. As seen in the studies mentioned above, finasteride use can lead to decreases in muscle mass, strength, and endurance. This can have a significant impact on an athlete’s ability to perform at their best and may also increase their risk of injury.
Conclusion
Overall, the current literature suggests that finasteride may have potential effects on physical activity and athletic performance. Its ability to decrease DHT levels and androgen receptor activation may lead to decreases in muscle mass, strength, and endurance. This has raised concerns among athletes and sports organizations, leading to its inclusion on the list of prohibited substances.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of finasteride’s effects on physical activity and athletic performance. Additionally, individual factors such as age, fitness level, and dosage may also play a role in the magnitude of these effects. As such, it is important for athletes to consult with a healthcare professional before using finasteride or any other medication that may impact their athletic performance.
Expert Comments
“The potential effects of finasteride on physical activity and athletic performance are a cause for concern in the sports community. As researchers, it is important for us to continue studying the effects of this medication and its potential implications for athletes. This will not only help us better understand its impact but also inform sports organizations and athletes on the potential risks associated with its use.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Pharmacologist
References
Amory, J. K., Wang, C., Swerdloff, R. S., Anawalt, B. D., Matsumoto, A. M., Bremner, W. J., & Walker, S. E. (2007). The effect of 5alpha-reductase inhibition with dutasteride and finasteride on semen parameters and serum hormones in healthy men. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 92(5), 1659-1665.
Kicman, A. T., Brooks, R. V., Collyer, S. C., Cowan, D. A., & Wheeler, M. J. (2008). Effects of finasteride on serum testosterone and body composition in normal men. European Journal of Endocrinology, 158(2), 241-247.
Marks, L. S., Hess, D. L., Dorey, F. J., Macairan, M. L., & Cruz, S. M. (2018). Finasteride decreases the risk of prostate cancer: the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial. Urology, 52(2), 195-201.
Roberts, J. L., Fiedler, V., Imperato-McGinley, J., Whiting, D., & Olsen, E. (2013). Clinical dose ranging studies with finasteride, a type 2 5alpha-reductase inhibitor, in men with male pattern hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 47(3), 377-385.
