Abstract
The aim of the study was to assess the effect of maximal therapeutic
dosing of sympathomimetic amines found in over-the-counter (OTC) decongestant
preparations on endurance running. Following familiarisation and a graded
exercise test to determine maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max),
trained male runners (n = 8) completed four exercise
sessions each separated by a minimum of one week. Each session was comprised of
20 min of sub-maximal treadmill running (70 %
V˙O2max) followed by a 5000-m time trial on the treadmill under
drug, placebo or control conditions. Drugs were administered in their
commercial format over the 36-hour period prior to testing in the
manufacturer's recommended maximal doses (i. e. 25 mg of
phenylpropanolamine and 60 mg of pseudoephedrine four times daily).
During sub-maximal endurance running no statistical differences were observed
in heart rate, V˙O2, minute ventilation, respiratory exchange
ratio, blood lactate, glucose or non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) or ratings
of perceived exertion with respect to the treatment administered. Similarly
there were no statistical differences according to the condition during the
5000-m running time trial, in terms of heart rate, ratings of perceived
exertion, time of completion and pre and post exercise blood lactate, glucose
or NEFA. The results indicate that in maximal, multiple therapeutic doses both
pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine as present in common OTC decongestant
formulations do not affect, nor possess any ergogenic properties with regard
to, endurance running.
Key words
Sympathomimetic amines - drugs - sports performance
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N. Chester, PhD
Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences ·
Liverpool John Moores University
Henry Cotton Campus · 15-21 Webster Street ·
Liverpool L3 2ET · United Kingdom ·
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