• Table of Contents

  • Isotretinoin Use Among Athletes: An Overview
  • Pharmacokinetics of Isotretinoin
  • Potential Benefits for Athletes
  • Potential Risks for Athletes
  • Real-World Examples
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

Isotretinoin Use Among Athletes: An Overview

Isotretinoin, also known as Accutane, is a powerful medication primarily used to treat severe acne. However, it has gained attention in recent years for its potential use among athletes. This article will provide an overview of isotretinoin use among athletes, including its pharmacokinetics, potential benefits, and potential risks.

Pharmacokinetics of Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a synthetic form of vitamin A and is classified as a retinoid. It is primarily used to treat severe acne that has not responded to other treatments. The medication is taken orally and is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. It has a half-life of 10-20 hours and is metabolized by the liver before being eliminated through the urine and feces (Katsambas et al. 2007).

Isotretinoin is known to have a high bioavailability, meaning that a large percentage of the medication is absorbed and reaches the systemic circulation. This is important for athletes, as it means that the medication can have a significant impact on the body’s systems.

Potential Benefits for Athletes

While isotretinoin is primarily used to treat acne, it has been suggested that it may have potential benefits for athletes. One of the main reasons for this is its ability to reduce sebum production. Sebum is an oily substance produced by the skin that can clog pores and contribute to acne. However, it also plays a role in the regulation of body temperature and lubrication of the skin during physical activity (Katsambas et al. 2007).

By reducing sebum production, isotretinoin may help athletes maintain a more consistent body temperature and reduce the risk of skin irritation or chafing during intense physical activity. This could be particularly beneficial for athletes who participate in sports that require them to wear tight-fitting clothing or equipment.

Additionally, isotretinoin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. This could be beneficial for athletes who experience inflammation as a result of intense training or competition. Inflammation is a natural response to physical stress, but excessive or prolonged inflammation can lead to tissue damage and hinder recovery (Katsambas et al. 2007).

Potential Risks for Athletes

While isotretinoin may have potential benefits for athletes, it is important to note that it also carries potential risks. One of the main concerns is its potential to cause musculoskeletal side effects. Isotretinoin has been linked to joint pain, muscle pain, and tendonitis in some individuals (Katsambas et al. 2007).

These side effects could be particularly problematic for athletes, as they could impact their performance and ability to train. Furthermore, isotretinoin has been shown to decrease bone mineral density, which could increase the risk of stress fractures in athletes (Katsambas et al. 2007).

Another potential risk for athletes is the medication’s potential to cause liver damage. Isotretinoin is metabolized by the liver, and in rare cases, it has been associated with liver toxicity. This could be particularly concerning for athletes who already put their liver under stress due to intense training and supplement use (Katsambas et al. 2007).

Real-World Examples

While there is limited research on isotretinoin use among athletes, there have been some notable cases in the sports world. In 2016, American swimmer Ryan Lochte was suspended for 10 months after testing positive for a banned substance, which was later revealed to be a small amount of isotretinoin (Associated Press 2016).

In 2018, Australian rugby player Karmichael Hunt was also suspended for four months after testing positive for a banned substance, which was later revealed to be a small amount of isotretinoin (Australian Associated Press 2018). These cases highlight the potential use of isotretinoin among athletes and the need for further research and education on its effects.

Expert Opinion

While there is limited research on isotretinoin use among athletes, experts in the field of sports pharmacology have expressed concerns about its potential use and misuse. Dr. Mario Thevis, a professor at the German Sport University Cologne, stated, “Isotretinoin is a substance that has been used in the past for doping purposes, and it is still a substance that is being used for doping purposes” (Associated Press 2016).

Dr. Thevis also emphasized the importance of education and awareness among athletes and their support teams. He stated, “It’s important to educate athletes and their entourage about the potential risks and consequences of using isotretinoin, especially in high doses or in combination with other substances” (Associated Press 2016).

Conclusion

In conclusion, isotretinoin use among athletes is a complex and controversial topic. While the medication may have potential benefits for athletes, it also carries potential risks that could impact their performance and health. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of isotretinoin on athletes and to develop guidelines for its use in the sports world.

References

Associated Press. (2016). Ryan Lochte suspended 10 months for use of banned IV infusion. USA Today. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/olympics/rio-2016/2016/09/12/ryan-lochte-suspended-10-months-use-banned-iv-infusion/90237536/

Australian Associated Press. (2018). Karmichael Hunt suspended for four months after positive drug test. The Guardian. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jan/12/karmichael-hunt-suspended-for-four-months-after-positive-drug-test

Katsambas, A., Papakonstantinou, A., & Dessinioti, C. (2007). New and emerging treatments in dermatology: acne. Dermatologic Therapy, 20(6), 330-342. doi: 10.1111/j.1529-8019.2007.00165.x