While some men believe they feel younger and more vigorous if they take testosterone medications, there is little evidence to support the use of testosterone. While some men believe that they feel younger and more vigorous if they take testosterone medications, there is little evidence to support the use of testosterone in otherwise healthy men. Guidelines from the American College of Physicians indicate that testosterone therapy may slightly improve sexual function in some men, but there is little evidence that it improves other functions, such as vitality and energy. Earlier observational studies suggested that long-term use of testosterone could increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Testosterone is also known to stimulate the growth of prostate cancer in men diagnosed with the condition.
Recent clinical trials, which provide more accurate information compared to observational studies, have provided some peace of mind regarding the risk of heart and prostate cancer. For men who are clearly deficient in testosterone, there is no apparent increased risk of having a heart attack or stroke or of developing a new prostate cancer from testosterone replacement therapy.
Testosterone replacement therapy
(TRT) is a treatment that is widely used in men with symptomatic hypogonadism. The benefits seen with TRT, such as increased libido and energy level, beneficial effects on bone density, strength and muscles, and cardioprotective effects, are well documented.TRT is contraindicated in men with untreated prostate and breast cancer. Men treated with TRT should be monitored for side effects such as polycythemia, peripheral oedema, and heart and liver dysfunction. One of the main concerns raised by doctors who are wary of TRT is the possibility of side effects and health risks. Some studies suggest that testosterone replacement therapy may be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes, but more research is needed to obtain a definitive answer.
For men who want to start a family, TRT should be carefully considered. While TRT can improve sexual health, it can negatively affect fertility by significantly reducing sperm count. In most cases, this effect is reversible once treatment is stopped.
