Over-the-Counter Medications for Female Athletes
When it comes to supporting female athletes, a sports pharmacist may find opportunities to modify recommendations for safe and effective over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Women in sports face distinct physiological conditions, with cyclic hormonal fluctuations, and may be at increased risk of low plasma volumes, or have additional nutritional demands. OTC medication selection should reflect these factors and others.
Review a few OTC Medications for Female Athletes:
1. Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen are commonly used for pain management, particularly for muscle soreness or menstrual cramps. While all athletes should be mindful of the potential gastrointestinal side effects, during premenstruation cramping the reason for any exacerbated stomach discomfort must be explored, if the athlete is also taking an NSAID.
2. Iron Supplements: Female athletes, particularly those involved in endurance sports, may be at a higher risk of iron deficiency, associated in part to monthly menstrual blood loss. OTC iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate, can help prevent low iron stores, and would be taken with vitamin C to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal upset. In countries in which Dietary Supplements lack regulations, athletes in Testing Pools should seek out a prescription grade iron plus ascorbic acid tablet.
3. Electrolyte Replenishers: Hydration is critical for athletic performance, and OTC electrolyte drinks that are sold as non-prescription drugs can help replenish sodium, potassium, and magnesium lost through sweat. For female athletes, avoiding products with high doses of caffeine (e.g., over 100 mg), like some combination ingredient pain medicine may also be beneficial. Caffeine can increase fluid loss as a weak diuretic.
Self-Care and Women's Health Modifications
When counseling female athletes, a sports pharmacist keep in mind: hormonal cycles effecting energy levels feeling bloated or agitated and other hormone level induced moods; menstrual cycle and pain or volume of blood loss; contraception and athletes choice for pregnancy planning; mental health; and bone health. Emphasizing proper hydration, balanced nutrition, and stress management create a fountain for optimizing performance and well-being. Additionally, women on hormonal contraceptives may require adjustments to OTC selection due to potential of increased blood clotting risk. Athletes could be advised on vitamin D supplements to support bone health based on their serum levels of vitamin D, though too much replacement is unsafe and would negatively impact health.
By tailoring recommendations to the specific needs of female athletes, sports pharmacists can help awareness of overall health effectively.