Effects of intranasal oxytocin combined with resistance training on testosterone, cortisol, fatigue, and skin temperature in paralympic powerlifting athletes.

backgroundSafe and effective ergogenic strategies remain a challenge in elite Paralympic sports. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide linked to stress regulation and energy metabolism, has emerged as a potential modulator of exercise responses.

objectiveTo examine the effects of intranasal oxytocin on hormonal, neuromuscular, and thermal responses in Paralympic powerlifting athletes.

methodsEleven athletes completed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, performing a traditional strength session (5 × 5 at 80% 1RM). Total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), cortisol, dynamic strength at submaximal load (45% 1RM), and skin temperature (thermography) were assessed.

resultsIn the placebo condition, TT increased from post to 24 h (310.18 → 394.18 ng/dL; p = 0.024), while cortisol decreased from pre to post (10.07 → 6.72 µg/dL; p = 0.011). Under oxytocin, cortisol fell acutely (9.52 → 6.48 µg/dL; p = 0.002) with partial recovery at 24 h (8.73 µg/dL; p = 0.039). The TT/C ratio rose only in placebo at 24 h (p = 0.046). Oxytocin preserved velocity and power at 45% 1RM and attenuated prolonged skin temperature elevations in key muscles.

conclusionOxytocin acted as a multifactorial modulator, enhancing hormonal balance, submaximal performance, and peripheral recovery, suggesting potential as an ergogenic aid in Paralympic powerlifting.