Does Sertraline affect athletic performance? (3+ risks)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether Sertraline affects athletic performance. We will also discuss research studies and how to manage Sertraline use if you are an athlete.
Does Sertraline affect athletic performance?
Yes, Sertraline may affect athletic performance in some individuals. However, individual responses to medications like Sertraline can vary, so not everyone will experience the same side effects.
Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is a commonly used antidepressant for the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions (1).
The decision to use Sertraline or any other medication should prioritize overall well-being and mental health, with careful consideration of how it may affect athletic performance as one factor among others.
What does research suggest?
There are several research studies on SSRI use and athletic performance.
One study indicated that some athletes were scared of using antidepressants to relieve anxiety and depression, as they were concerned about the effects of antidepressants on their physical performance. After using Sertraline under the guidance of a psychiatrist, they found that this medication stopped their anxiety attacks and made them feel more energetic (2).
Another study indicated that both short-term and long-term use of SSRIs do not impact the strength or intense exercise performance of young adults (3).
Although these studies indicated the safe use of Sertraline by athletes, however, the responses may differ from person to person. Some people experience sedation, dizziness and drowsiness during Sertraline use which results in low energy levels and difficulty concentrating thereby leading to decreased athletic performance.
Potential risks of using Sertraline by athletes
Here are some risks associated with sertraline use which may affect athletic performance:
Weight changes: Sertraline can lead to weight loss in some individuals which can affect athletic performance, particularly in sports such as weight lifting or distance racing.
Dehydration: Some SSRIs, including Sertraline, can cause increased sweating, which may lead to dehydration during physical activity. Athletes should be aware of this potential side effect as proper hydration is essential for optimal athletic performance.
Interaction with other medications: Athletes should be cautious about potential interactions between Sertraline and other medications or supplements they may be taking. Some drug interactions could affect performance or health.
Individual Variation: The impact of Sertraline on individual performance can vary widely among individuals. Some people may not notice any significant effects on their physical performance, while others may experience noticeable changes.
Muscle strength and power: Sertraline does not directly affect muscle strength or power. However, some individuals may experience fatigue or changes in energy levels as a side effect of Sertraline which indirectly impairs muscle strength and power.
Potential benefits of using Sertraline by athletes
Benefits associated with Sertraline use by athletes are:
- Improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety or depression.
- Increased mental well-being can positively impact motivation and focus.
- Better stress management can lead to reduced performance-related anxiety.
- Increased compliance with training and recovery regimens due to improved mental health.
Tips to manage athletic performance during Sertraline use
Here are some tips for managing athletic performance during Sertraline use:
- Stick to a regular exercise schedule to help adapt to any potential changes.
- Stay hydrated as proper hydration is crucial for optimal athletic performance.
- Eat a balanced diet to support your energy levels and overall health.
- Keep your healthcare provider informed of any changes or concerns related to your athletic performance.
- If you consider significant performance issues, discuss potential medication adjustments or alternative treatments with your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Sertraline can have an individualized effect on athletic performance. While it may lead to side effects like fatigue or changes in motivation, these impacts vary among individuals. For some people reduction in anxiety and depression leads to better overall well-being, which can indirectly benefit athletic performance. Athletes should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage any side effects and find a treatment plan that supports both their mental health and athletic goals.
Was this helpful?
References
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
