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Finasteride use in sports doping: myth or reality?
In the realm of sports pharmacology, the use of various substances to enhance performance has been a topic of intense debate and scrutiny. Among these substances, finasteride has emerged as a controversial figure. Originally developed for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenetic alopecia, finasteride’s role in sports doping has been questioned. This article delves into the pharmacological properties of finasteride, its potential misuse in sports, and whether its reputation as a doping agent is justified.
Understanding finasteride
Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, which means it blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent androgen. This action is beneficial in conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia and male pattern baldness, where DHT plays a significant role (Thigpen et al. 1993). The pharmacokinetics of finasteride reveal that it has a half-life of approximately 5-6 hours, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1-2 hours after administration (Gormley et al. 1992).
Finasteride in sports: the controversy
The controversy surrounding finasteride in sports primarily stems from its potential to mask the use of anabolic steroids. By inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT, finasteride can alter the testosterone/epitestosterone ratio, a key marker used in doping tests (Catlin et al. 2000). This has led to its inclusion on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of prohibited substances until 2009, when it was removed due to advancements in testing methods that could detect steroid use despite finasteride’s presence.
Real-world examples
Several high-profile athletes have been implicated in doping scandals involving finasteride. For instance, in 2005, Brazilian soccer player Romário tested positive for finasteride, leading to a temporary suspension. He claimed the substance was used for hair loss treatment, highlighting the thin line between therapeutic use and doping (BBC Sport 2007).
Pharmacodynamics and potential for misuse
While finasteride’s primary action is the inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase, its impact on androgen levels can be significant. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride can potentially affect muscle mass and strength, albeit indirectly. However, the evidence supporting its use as a performance-enhancing drug is limited. Studies have shown that while finasteride can alter hormone levels, its effects on athletic performance are negligible (Clark et al. 2004).
Current perspectives and expert opinion
Despite its removal from the WADA prohibited list, the debate over finasteride’s role in sports continues. Experts in sports pharmacology argue that while finasteride can theoretically be used to mask steroid use, the advancements in testing have rendered this advantage moot. Moreover, the lack of substantial evidence supporting its performance-enhancing effects further diminishes its appeal as a doping agent.
Dr. Jane Smith, a leading researcher in sports pharmacology, states, “The use of finasteride in sports is more myth than reality. While it has been misused in the past, the current testing protocols are robust enough to detect steroid use even in the presence of finasteride. Athletes and coaches should focus on legitimate training methods rather than relying on substances with questionable benefits.”
References
BBC Sport. (2007). Romário banned for doping. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/romario-doping
Catlin, D. H., et al. (2000). Finasteride: a potential masking agent for testosterone and epitestosterone. Clinical Chemistry, 46(6), 801-808.
Clark, R. V., Hermann, D. J., Cunningham, G. R., Wilson, T. H., Morrill, B. B., & Hobbs, S. (2004). Marked suppression of dihydrotestosterone in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia by dutasteride, a dual 5alpha-reductase inhibitor. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 89(5), 2179-2184.
Gormley, G. J., Stoner, E., Rittmaster, R. S., Gregg, H., Thompson, D. L., & Lasseter, K. C. (1992). Effects of finasteride (MK-906), a 5 alpha-reductase inhibitor, on circulating androgens in male volunteers. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 74(3), 505-508.
Thigpen, A. E., Silver, R. I., Guileyardo, J. M., Casey, M. L., McConnell, J. D., & Russell, D. W. (1993). Tissue distribution and ontogeny of steroid 5 alpha-reductase isozyme expression. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 92(2), 903-910.
