Hormone Replacement Therapy- Men

Introduction

Many men can experience andropause or low-T as they age. As a result of declining free testosterone levels in the body, males can exhibit a variety of debilitating symptoms. Decreased concentration, lethargy, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and depression are commonly seen in men with low-T. Low-T is often characterized by total testosterone levels falling below 300 ng/dl. Testosterone supplementation can offer a solution for these patients.

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Treatment Options

Compounded topical and oral preparations are options to help patients with low-T. Many preparations are commercially available such as AndroGel, Testim, Striant. Injectable testosterone may not provide normal physiological serum levels for patients. In addition, patients may need specific dosing adjustments that may not be managed with these products. A compounded preparation could be an alternative if patients are having issues or concerns with commercially available therapy. Studies have shown that there is increased mortality specifically among patients with cardiovascular risks or history of cardiovascular issues. Complete medical histories should be taken and evaluated to ensure patient safety.

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Reviewed:             July 23, 2014

Updated:              November 22, 2016

Reviewed by         Beth Bolt, RPh

References            Tenover JL. The androgen-deficient aging male: current treatment options. Rev Urol. 2003;5 Suppl 1:S22-8.Cappola AR. m                                         Testosterone therapy and risk of cardiovascular disease in men. JAMA. 2013;310(17):1805-6.

Source                    RxWiki

Managing Editor   Anyssa Garza, PharmD