• Table of Contents

  • Side Effects of Enclomifene Citrate in Athletes
  • Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Enclomifene Citrate
  • Common Side Effects of Enclomifene Citrate
  • Less Common Side Effects of Enclomifene Citrate
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

Side Effects of Enclomifene Citrate in Athletes

Enclomifene citrate, also known as enclomiphene, is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is commonly used in the treatment of female infertility. However, it has also gained popularity among athletes as a performance-enhancing drug due to its ability to increase testosterone levels. While enclomifene citrate may offer benefits for athletes, it is important to understand the potential side effects that may occur with its use.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Enclomifene Citrate

Enclomifene citrate works by binding to estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, which leads to an increase in the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). This, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone in the testes. Enclomifene citrate has a half-life of approximately 5-7 days and is metabolized in the liver. It is primarily excreted in the feces, with a small amount being eliminated in the urine.

Studies have shown that enclomifene citrate can significantly increase testosterone levels in both men and women. In one study, men who received a single dose of enclomifene citrate experienced a 3-4 fold increase in testosterone levels within 24 hours (Kaminetsky et al. 2013). This increase in testosterone can lead to improved muscle mass, strength, and athletic performance.

Common Side Effects of Enclomifene Citrate

While enclomifene citrate may offer benefits for athletes, it is not without its potential side effects. The most common side effects reported in studies include hot flashes, headaches, and nausea (Kaminetsky et al. 2013). These side effects are similar to those seen with other SERMs, such as tamoxifen and clomiphene.

Hot flashes, also known as vasomotor symptoms, are characterized by a sudden feeling of warmth, flushing, and sweating. They are thought to be caused by the fluctuation of estrogen levels in the body. While hot flashes are typically associated with menopause, they can also occur in men who are taking enclomifene citrate. In most cases, hot flashes are mild and can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers like caffeine and alcohol, and wearing loose-fitting clothing.

Headaches are another common side effect of enclomifene citrate. These headaches are typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if headaches persist or become severe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Nausea is also a common side effect of enclomifene citrate. This is thought to be due to the stimulation of estrogen receptors in the gastrointestinal tract. Nausea can usually be managed with over-the-counter anti-nausea medications or by taking enclomifene citrate with food.

Less Common Side Effects of Enclomifene Citrate

In addition to the common side effects mentioned above, there are also some less common side effects that have been reported with the use of enclomifene citrate. These include visual disturbances, mood changes, and changes in lipid levels.

Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision and changes in color perception, have been reported in some individuals taking enclomifene citrate. These side effects are usually mild and resolve once the medication is discontinued. However, if visual disturbances persist or become severe, it is important to seek medical attention.

Mood changes, including irritability and mood swings, have also been reported with the use of enclomifene citrate. These side effects are thought to be due to the fluctuation of estrogen levels in the body. If mood changes become severe or interfere with daily activities, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Enclomifene citrate has also been shown to have an impact on lipid levels in the body. In one study, men who received enclomifene citrate had a significant increase in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (Kaminetsky et al. 2013). While this may not be a concern for healthy individuals, it is important for athletes to monitor their lipid levels and make necessary lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy balance.

Expert Opinion

While enclomifene citrate may offer benefits for athletes, it is important to understand the potential side effects that may occur with its use. As with any medication, it is important to weigh the potential risks and benefits before use. Athletes should also be aware of the potential for abuse and the potential for long-term health consequences. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or supplement.

References

Kaminetsky, J., Werner, M., Fontenot, G., Wiehle, R., & Podolski, J. (2013). 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, 10(6), 1628-1635.

Johnson, M. D., & Murad, M. H. (2021). Enclomiphene citrate. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.

Sharma, S., & Sharma, S. (2019). Enclomiphene citrate: a treatment option for hypogonadism. Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, 12(1), 3-8.