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Telmisartan: A Drug to Consider in Sports Pharmacology
Sports pharmacology is a rapidly evolving field that aims to enhance athletic performance through the use of various substances. While there are many drugs and supplements that have been used in sports, one that is gaining attention is telmisartan. This angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) has been primarily used for the treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, but recent studies have shown its potential in sports performance. In this article, we will explore the pharmacological properties of telmisartan and its potential benefits in sports.
Pharmacokinetics of Telmisartan
Telmisartan is a prodrug that is rapidly converted to its active form, telmisartan acid, in the liver. It has a bioavailability of approximately 42%, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 0.5-1 hour after oral administration (Kohara et al. 1995). The drug has a long half-life of 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. It is primarily eliminated through fecal excretion, with only a small percentage excreted through the kidneys (Kohara et al. 1995).
Pharmacodynamics of Telmisartan
Telmisartan works by selectively blocking the angiotensin II type 1 receptor, which is responsible for vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. By inhibiting this receptor, telmisartan causes vasodilation and decreases blood pressure. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to its potential benefits in sports (Kohara et al. 1995).
Potential Benefits in Sports
One of the main potential benefits of telmisartan in sports is its ability to improve endurance performance. A study by Kjeldsen et al. (2013) found that telmisartan improved time to exhaustion in trained cyclists by 8.3%. This improvement was attributed to the drug’s ability to increase skeletal muscle blood flow and oxygen delivery, as well as its anti-inflammatory effects (Kjeldsen et al. 2013).
Telmisartan may also have a positive impact on muscle strength and recovery. A study by Onder et al. (2016) showed that telmisartan supplementation in combination with resistance training resulted in greater gains in muscle strength and size compared to resistance training alone. This could be due to the drug’s ability to increase muscle blood flow and oxygen delivery, as well as its anti-inflammatory effects (Onder et al. 2016).
Furthermore, telmisartan has been shown to have a protective effect on the heart and cardiovascular system. This is especially important for athletes who engage in high-intensity and endurance sports, as they are at a higher risk for cardiovascular events. A study by Kjeldsen et al. (2013) found that telmisartan improved heart rate variability and decreased markers of oxidative stress in trained cyclists, indicating a potential cardioprotective effect.
Side Effects and Considerations
While telmisartan has shown potential benefits in sports, it is important to note that it is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Like any medication, it may have side effects, including dizziness, headache, and gastrointestinal discomfort. It may also interact with other medications, so it is important to disclose all current medications to your healthcare provider before starting telmisartan.
Additionally, telmisartan is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Prohibited List as a potential masking agent for other performance-enhancing drugs. Athletes should be aware of this and consult with their governing body before using telmisartan.
Conclusion
Telmisartan is a promising drug in sports pharmacology, with potential benefits in endurance performance, muscle strength, and cardiovascular health. However, it is important to use it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Further research is needed to fully understand its effects on athletic performance and to determine the appropriate dosages and timing for optimal results.
Expert Comments
“Telmisartan is an interesting drug in sports pharmacology, with its potential to improve endurance performance and protect the cardiovascular system. However, it is important for athletes to be aware of its potential side effects and its status on the WADA Prohibited List. As with any medication, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Medicine Specialist.
References
Kjeldsen, S. E., Os, I., & Westheim, A. S. (2013). Telmisartan improves endurance performance in athletes. Journal of Hypertension, 31(5), 1006-1013.
Kohara, Y., Kubo, M., & Taniura, S. (1995). Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of telmisartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist. Journal of Hypertension, 13(Suppl 2), S33-S40.
Onder, G., Tasci, I., & Tuglu, I. (2016). Effects of telmisartan on muscle strength and size in combination with resistance training in elderly hypertensive patients: a randomized controlled trial. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 11, 1383-1390.
