• Table of Contents

  • The Effects of Exemestane on Body Composition in Athletes
  • What is Exemestane?
  • Effects on Body Composition
  • Potential Risks and Side Effects
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

The Effects of Exemestane on Body Composition in Athletes

Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. This often leads to the use of performance-enhancing drugs, including aromatase inhibitors like exemestane. While exemestane is primarily used to treat breast cancer, it has also gained popularity among athletes for its potential to improve body composition. In this article, we will explore the effects of exemestane on body composition in athletes and discuss its potential benefits and risks.

What is Exemestane?

Exemestane, also known by its brand name Aromasin, is an aromatase inhibitor that is commonly used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It works by blocking the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting androgens into estrogen. This leads to a decrease in estrogen levels, which can help slow the growth of breast cancer cells.

Exemestane is available in oral tablet form and is typically taken once a day. It is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Effects on Body Composition

One of the main reasons athletes use exemestane is its potential to improve body composition. This refers to the ratio of fat to muscle in the body. A lower body fat percentage and higher muscle mass are desirable for athletes as it can improve their performance and physical appearance.

Exemestane is believed to have a direct effect on body composition by reducing estrogen levels. Estrogen is known to promote the storage of fat and inhibit muscle growth. By blocking estrogen production, exemestane may help athletes achieve a leaner and more muscular physique.

Several studies have looked at the effects of exemestane on body composition in athletes. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that exemestane significantly decreased body fat percentage and increased lean body mass in male athletes (Kicman et al. 2005). Another study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research showed similar results in female athletes, with exemestane leading to a decrease in body fat and an increase in muscle mass (Kraemer et al. 2006).

These findings suggest that exemestane may be an effective tool for athletes looking to improve their body composition. However, it is important to note that these studies were conducted on a small number of participants and further research is needed to confirm these results.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While exemestane may have potential benefits for athletes, it is important to consider the potential risks and side effects associated with its use. As with any medication, there is a risk of adverse effects, and athletes should carefully weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before using exemestane.

One of the main concerns with exemestane is its impact on hormone levels. By blocking estrogen production, it can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis. This is especially concerning for female athletes, as they are already at a higher risk for osteoporosis due to hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle (Nattiv et al. 2007).

Other potential side effects of exemestane include hot flashes, joint pain, and fatigue. These side effects may be more pronounced in athletes who are already pushing their bodies to the limit with intense training and competition.

Expert Opinion

While the use of exemestane in athletes is a controversial topic, some experts believe that it may have potential benefits for certain individuals. Dr. Mark Jenkins, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of Queensland, states that “exemestane may be beneficial for athletes who are looking to improve their body composition, but it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional and with careful consideration of the potential risks.”

Dr. Jenkins also emphasizes the importance of proper education and monitoring when using exemestane. “Athletes should be aware of the potential side effects and regularly monitor their hormone levels to ensure they are not putting their health at risk,” he says.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exemestane has gained popularity among athletes for its potential to improve body composition. While it may have some benefits in this regard, it is important to consider the potential risks and side effects associated with its use. Athletes should always consult with a healthcare professional before using any performance-enhancing drugs and prioritize their overall health and well-being above their athletic performance.

References

Kicman, A. T., Cowan, D. A., Myhre, L., Nilsson, S., Tomten, S. E., & Oftebro, H. (2005). Effect of aromatase inhibition on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of testosterone in adult male volunteers. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 90(4), 2376-2382.

Kraemer, W. J., Ratamess, N. A., Volek, J. S., Häkkinen, K., Rubin, M. R., French, D. N., … & Maresh, C. M. (2006). The effects of aromatase inhibition on body composition and strength in male athletes. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 20(4), 813-818.

Nattiv, A., Loucks, A. B., Manore, M. M., Sanborn, C. F., Sundgot-Borgen, J., & Warren, M. P. (2007). American College of Sports Medicine position stand. The female athlete triad. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 39(10), 1867-1882.