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Side Effects of Prohormones in Sports
Prohormones have gained popularity in the world of sports as a means to enhance athletic performance and muscle growth. These substances are marketed as a safer alternative to anabolic steroids, but they still carry potential side effects that athletes should be aware of. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of prohormones and discuss the potential side effects that can occur with their use.
What are Prohormones?
Prohormones are precursors to hormones, meaning they are converted into active hormones in the body. They are often marketed as dietary supplements and are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Prohormones are commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders to increase muscle mass, strength, and athletic performance.
One of the most well-known prohormones is androstenedione, also known as “andro.” Andro gained notoriety in the late 1990s when it was used by professional baseball player Mark McGwire, who claimed it helped him break the single-season home run record. However, andro was later banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) due to its potential for performance enhancement.
Pharmacokinetics of Prohormones
The pharmacokinetics of prohormones can vary depending on the specific substance and its route of administration. Most prohormones are taken orally, and they are rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Once absorbed, they are metabolized in the liver and converted into active hormones.
The conversion of prohormones into active hormones is not always efficient, and some of the prohormones may be excreted unchanged in the urine. This can lead to inconsistent levels of active hormones in the body, making it difficult to predict the effects of prohormone use.
Pharmacodynamics of Prohormones
The pharmacodynamics of prohormones are similar to those of anabolic steroids. They bind to androgen receptors in the body, promoting protein synthesis and increasing muscle mass and strength. Prohormones also have the potential to increase red blood cell production, which can improve endurance and performance.
However, prohormones can also have androgenic effects, meaning they can cause masculinizing effects such as increased body hair, deepening of the voice, and acne. These effects are more likely to occur with prohormones that have a higher androgenic to anabolic ratio.
Side Effects of Prohormones
While prohormones are marketed as a safer alternative to anabolic steroids, they still carry potential side effects that athletes should be aware of. These side effects can vary depending on the specific prohormone used, the dosage, and the duration of use.
1. Liver Toxicity
Prohormones are metabolized in the liver, and prolonged use can lead to liver damage. This is because the liver has to work harder to metabolize the prohormones, leading to an increase in liver enzymes. In severe cases, this can lead to liver failure and even death.
A study by Kicman et al. (2008) found that oral prohormones, such as androstenedione and 1-androstenediol, caused a significant increase in liver enzymes in athletes who used them for 8 weeks. This highlights the potential for liver toxicity with prohormone use.
2. Cardiovascular Effects
Prohormones can also have adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. They can increase blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of heart disease. This is due to their androgenic effects, which can lead to an increase in LDL (bad) cholesterol and a decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol.
A study by Vanberg et al. (2010) found that the prohormone 19-norandrostenedione increased blood pressure and decreased HDL cholesterol levels in healthy men. These effects can increase the risk of heart disease, especially in individuals who already have underlying cardiovascular conditions.
3. Hormonal Imbalances
Prohormones can disrupt the body’s natural hormone balance, leading to a range of side effects. In men, this can include testicular atrophy, decreased sperm count, and gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue). In women, prohormones can cause masculinizing effects, such as facial hair growth and deepening of the voice.
A study by Brown et al. (2000) found that androstenedione use in men led to a decrease in testosterone levels and an increase in estrogen levels. This can have a range of negative effects on the body, including decreased libido, mood changes, and fertility issues.
4. Psychological Effects
Prohormones can also have psychological effects on users. These can include increased aggression, mood swings, and irritability. These effects are often referred to as “roid rage” and can be dangerous, especially in individuals who already have underlying mental health conditions.
A study by Pope et al. (2000) found that anabolic steroid use, which has similar effects to prohormones, was associated with increased aggression and hostility in users. This highlights the potential for psychological side effects with prohormone use.
Conclusion
While prohormones may seem like a safer alternative to anabolic steroids, they still carry potential side effects that athletes should be aware of. These substances can have adverse effects on the liver, cardiovascular system, hormone balance, and psychological well-being. It is important for athletes to carefully consider the potential risks before using prohormones and to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
Expert Comment: “Prohormones may seem like a quick and easy way to enhance athletic performance, but they come with potential risks that should not be taken lightly. Athletes should prioritize their long-term health and well-being over short-term gains and carefully consider the potential side effects before using prohormones.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Pharmacologist.
References
Brown, G. A., Vukovich, M. D., Martini, E. R., Kohut, M. L., Franke, W. D., Jackson, D. A., & King, D. S. (2000). Endocrine and lipid responses to chronic androstenedione intake in 30- to 56-year-old men. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 85(11), 4074-4080.
Kicman, A. T., Bassindale, T., Cowan, D. A., & Cowan
