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Exercise performance is not influenced by a 5-HT reuptake inhibitor.
R Meeusen1, M F Piacentini, S Van Den Eynde
1Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Department of Human Physiology and Sportsmedicine, Belgium. rmeeusen@vub.ac.be
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|August 21, 2001
Summary
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) do not impact exercise performance in trained cyclists. While SSRIs may have central effects, hormonal responses during exercise are complex and involve neurotransmitter interactions.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuropharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat depression.
- The impact of SSRIs on athletic performance and hormonal responses during exercise is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of a selective serotonin (5-HT) reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) on exercise performance.
- To analyze the hormonal responses during a prolonged exercise test in cyclists taking an SSRI.
Main Methods:
- Eight well-trained male cyclists completed three 90-minute time trials at 65% Wattmax.
- Subjects ingested either placebo or 20 mg Fluoxetine-HCl (Prozac) before trials.
- Blood samples were collected to measure adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), prolactin (PRL), cortisol, catecholamines, growth hormone (GH), and beta-endorphins.
Main Results:
- Exercise performance was not significantly affected by SSRI administration.
- All measured blood parameters increased during exercise.
- Increases in beta-endorphins and PRL were significantly lower during the SSRI trial compared to placebo.
Conclusions:
- SSRIs do not appear to impair exercise performance in trained cyclists.
- Hormonal modulation during exercise may be influenced by neurotransmitter interactions, not solely by serotonin.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the complex interplay between SSRIs, hormones, and exercise physiology.