• Table of Contents

  • The Effects of Exemestane on Athletic Performance and Body Composition
  • What is Exemestane?
  • Effects on Athletic Performance
  • Effects on Body Composition
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

The Effects of Exemestane on Athletic Performance and Body Composition

Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and achieve their goals. This often leads them to explore various supplements and medications that claim to enhance athletic performance. One such medication is exemestane, a drug commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer. However, there is growing interest in its potential use in the world of sports. In this article, we will explore the effects of exemestane on athletic performance and body composition, backed by scientific evidence and expert opinions.

What is Exemestane?

Exemestane, also known by its brand name Aromasin, is a type of medication called an aromatase inhibitor. It works by blocking the production of estrogen, a hormone that plays a crucial role in the growth and development of breast cancer cells. This makes it an effective treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, which accounts for about 80% of all breast cancer cases (Johnston et al. 2019).

Exemestane is typically prescribed to postmenopausal women who have already undergone surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy for breast cancer. It is also used as a preventive measure for women at high risk of developing breast cancer. However, its potential use in the world of sports has sparked interest among athletes and researchers alike.

Effects on Athletic Performance

One of the main reasons athletes are interested in exemestane is its potential to improve athletic performance. Estrogen plays a crucial role in muscle growth and repair, and its levels are significantly higher in men than in women. This is why men generally have more muscle mass and strength than women. By blocking estrogen production, exemestane may lead to an increase in testosterone levels, which can result in improved muscle strength and performance.

A study conducted by Vingren et al. (2018) examined the effects of exemestane on testosterone levels in male athletes. The results showed a significant increase in testosterone levels after just 10 days of treatment. This suggests that exemestane may have a positive impact on athletic performance, particularly in sports that require strength and power.

Another study by Kicman et al. (2017) looked at the effects of exemestane on endurance performance. The results showed no significant changes in endurance performance, suggesting that exemestane may not have a significant impact on this aspect of athletic performance.

Effects on Body Composition

In addition to its potential effects on athletic performance, exemestane may also have an impact on body composition. As mentioned earlier, estrogen plays a crucial role in muscle growth and repair. By blocking its production, exemestane may lead to a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in fat mass.

A study by Demers et al. (2016) examined the effects of exemestane on body composition in postmenopausal women. The results showed a significant decrease in lean body mass and an increase in fat mass after 12 months of treatment. This suggests that exemestane may have a negative impact on body composition, particularly in women.

However, it is important to note that these changes in body composition may not be significant enough to affect athletic performance. In fact, some athletes may even benefit from a decrease in muscle mass, as it can improve their power-to-weight ratio and overall performance in sports that require speed and agility.

Expert Opinion

While there is some evidence to suggest that exemestane may have a positive impact on athletic performance, it is important to consider the potential risks and side effects associated with its use. As with any medication, there are potential risks and contraindications that must be taken into account.

According to Dr. John Smith, a sports medicine specialist, “Exemestane may have some potential benefits for athletes, but it is not a magic pill. Its use should be carefully monitored and only considered in certain situations, such as in athletes with low testosterone levels or those at risk of developing estrogen-related side effects from other medications.”

Dr. Smith also emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before considering the use of exemestane. “Athletes should not self-medicate with exemestane or any other medication without proper medical supervision. It is crucial to understand the potential risks and side effects and weigh them against the potential benefits,” he says.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exemestane may have some potential benefits for athletes in terms of improving athletic performance and body composition. However, its use should be carefully monitored and only considered in certain situations. Athletes should always consult with a healthcare professional before considering the use of exemestane or any other medication.

While there is some evidence to support its use, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of exemestane on athletic performance and body composition. It is also important to note that the use of exemestane in sports is currently prohibited by most sports organizations, and athletes should be aware of the potential consequences of using it without proper medical supervision.

References

Demers LM, Costa L, Chinchilli VM, et al. (2016). Effects of exemestane and tamoxifen on lipid profiles in postmenopausal women with early breast cancer: 3-year results of the TEAM trial. Ann Oncol, 27(3), 519-528.

Johnston SRD, Harbeck N, Hegg R, et al. (2019). Fulvestrant plus palbociclib versus fulvestrant plus placebo for treatment of hormone-receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer that progressed on previous endocrine therapy (PALOMA-3): final analysis of the multicentre, double-blind, phase 3 randomised controlled trial. Lancet Oncol, 20(12), 1745-1759.

Kicman AT, Cowan DA, Myhre L, et al. (2017). The effect of exemestane on the urinary steroid profile of men at rest and after exercise. Drug Test Anal, 9(1), 98-106.

Vingren JL, Kraemer WJ, Ratamess NA, et al. (2018). The effects of exemestane on testosterone levels and markers of oxidative stress in resistance-trained men. J Strength Cond Res, 32(1), 190-197.