312: Understanding the Impact of Common Medications on an Athlete’s Physiology and Training
Mar 28, 2024
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Dr. Jeff Sankoff discusses the impact of common medications on athletes' physiology and training. Topics include risks of NSAIDs, misinformation about Tylenol, effects of Metformin, beta blockers, statins, and antibiotics on athletes' performance. The importance of medication management, alternatives to statins, and nuances of using stimulants in athletes are highlighted.
Use antibiotics judiciously to prevent antibiotic resistance and microbiome disruption.
Consider Coenzyme Q10 supplementation to alleviate muscle pain caused by statins.
Athletes on beta blockers must weigh individual health considerations for exercise performance.
Deep dives
The Importance of Antibiotics
Antibiotics are widely prescribed but should be used judiciously. Taking antibiotics when not necessary can lead to antibiotic resistance and disrupt the microbiome, impacting performance and overall health.
Understanding Statins
Statins are commonly prescribed to reduce LDL cholesterol and prevent heart disease. While they have significant benefits, they can also cause side effects like muscle pain. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation may help alleviate these symptoms.
Considerations with Beta Blockers
Beta blockers are effective in managing heart conditions but can impact exercise performance by lowering heart rates. Athletes on beta blockers may need to make individual decisions based on their health and activity levels.
Balancing Benefits and Risks of Medications
Medications like antibiotics, statins, and beta blockers offer important benefits but also pose risks. It is crucial for individuals to discuss with their healthcare providers and weigh the benefits against potential side effects before initiating treatment.
Impact of Antibiotics on Gut Microbiome and Exercise Performance
Antibiotics can negatively affect the gut microbiome, leading to reduced exercise performance. Experiments on mice showed that those receiving antibiotics performed poorly compared to those who didn't. Transplanting healthy gut bacteria into antibiotic-treated mice restored their performance levels, highlighting the crucial role of microbiota in energy production and muscular function.
Concerns and Considerations with Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin pose a risk of Achilles tendon rupture. Athletes on these antibiotics face a significantly higher likelihood of tendon issues. Factors like age over 60, previous steroid use, renal problems, diabetes, and musculoskeletal disorders increase the risk. Understanding these risks and discussing them with a healthcare provider is essential for athletes using fluoroquinolones.
Dr. Jeff Sankoff, the “Tri-Doc,” walks us through a list of medications and their impact on athletes to better understand risks, necessary training adaptations, and how to better communicate with your doctor.
