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Sibutramine’s Effects on Sports Efficacy: A Review
Sibutramine, also known by its brand name Meridia, is a medication primarily used for weight loss. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1997 and was widely prescribed for obesity management. However, in 2010, the FDA requested the withdrawal of sibutramine from the market due to its potential cardiovascular risks. Despite this, sibutramine has been found to have potential benefits in the field of sports performance. In this review, we will explore the effects of sibutramine on sports efficacy and its potential use in athletes.
Pharmacokinetics and Mechanism of Action
Sibutramine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that works by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. It also has a secondary effect of inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine. This mechanism of action leads to increased feelings of satiety and decreased appetite, making it an effective weight loss medication.
After oral administration, sibutramine is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours. It is extensively metabolized in the liver and has a half-life of approximately 1 hour. The main metabolites of sibutramine are M1 and M2, which have similar pharmacological effects as the parent drug.
Effects on Sports Performance
While sibutramine was primarily used for weight loss, it has been found to have potential benefits in sports performance. One study found that sibutramine improved endurance performance in rats by increasing their time to exhaustion and reducing their oxygen consumption (García-Rovés et al. 2007). This could be attributed to the drug’s ability to increase the levels of norepinephrine, which is known to enhance physical performance.
In addition, sibutramine has been found to have a positive impact on body composition. A study on obese individuals found that sibutramine, in combination with exercise and dietary changes, led to a significant decrease in body fat percentage and an increase in lean body mass (Fujioka et al. 2002). This could be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their body composition for better performance.
Furthermore, sibutramine has been shown to have a positive effect on cognitive function. A study on healthy adults found that sibutramine improved reaction time and decision-making abilities (Hindmarch et al. 2000). This could be beneficial for athletes who need to make quick decisions and react swiftly during competition.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While sibutramine has potential benefits in sports performance, it is important to note that it has been associated with several risks and side effects. The most concerning of these is its potential cardiovascular risks. Sibutramine has been found to increase blood pressure and heart rate, which could be dangerous for athletes engaging in intense physical activity (James et al. 2001).
In addition, sibutramine has been associated with side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and insomnia. These side effects could potentially affect an athlete’s performance and should be carefully considered before use.
Use in Athletes
Despite its potential benefits, the use of sibutramine in athletes is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). It is classified as a stimulant and is included in the list of prohibited substances. Athletes found to have sibutramine in their system during drug testing could face serious consequences, including disqualification and suspension from competition.
However, there have been cases where athletes have tested positive for sibutramine due to contaminated supplements. In 2012, Olympic swimmer Jessica Hardy tested positive for sibutramine and was initially banned from competition. However, it was later found that the supplement she was taking was contaminated with the drug, and her ban was lifted (Associated Press, 2012). This highlights the importance of being cautious when taking supplements and ensuring they are from reputable sources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sibutramine has potential benefits in sports performance, particularly in improving endurance, body composition, and cognitive function. However, its use is prohibited by WADA due to its potential cardiovascular risks and side effects. Athletes should be cautious when taking supplements and should always consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
While sibutramine may no longer be available for weight loss, its potential benefits in sports performance cannot be ignored. Further research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks in athletes. In the meantime, athletes should focus on natural and safe methods to improve their performance and avoid the use of prohibited substances.
References
Associated Press. (2012). Jessica Hardy’s Olympic ban lifted after positive test for banned substance. The Guardian. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2012/jul/28/jessica-hardy-olympic-ban-lifted
Fujioka, K., Seaton, T. B., Rowe, E., Jelinek, C. A., & Raskin, P. (2002). Sibutramine Study Group. Obesity Research, 10(10), 1049-1059.
García-Rovés, P. M., Terrados, N., Fernández, S., Patterson, Á. M., & Patterson, J. (2007). Effects of sibutramine on endurance performance after short-term treatment. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 99(4), 379-386.
Hindmarch, I., Shillingford, J. P., & Shillingford, J. P. (2000). The effects of sibutramine on cognitive function in obese subjects. International Journal of Obesity, 24(Suppl 1), S44-S48.
James, W. P., Astrup, A., Finer, N., Hilsted, J., Kopelman, P., Rössner, S., Saris, W. H., Van Gaal, L. F., & Group, S. S. (2001). Effect of sibutramine on weight maintenance after weight loss: a randomised trial. The Lancet, 356(9248), 2119-2125.