Testosterone

Although the decline in testosterone production as men age (sometimes referred to as "andropause") is not as dramatic as the drop in women's estrogen production with the onset of menopause, testosterone decline is a serious issue for many older men. Among other problems, declining testosterone production is strongly associated with impotency and libido problems.

Anti-aging benefits that have been associated with testosterone replacement therapy may include increased libido and sexual potency; improved erectile function; improved mood and increased feelings of well-being; decreased fatigue; increased red blood cell count; reduction of LDL cholesterol and overall cholesterol levels and strengthening of the bones.

Distribution: Testosterone replacement needs to be managed by a physician to ensure that a patient receives only enough of the hormone to replenish lost levels.

Many forms of administering testosterone have been developed, including intramuscular injections, suppositories, a transdermal patch attached to the scrotum, oral micronized capsules and sublingual lozenges. Oral administrations seem to be the least effective method.

Side Effects and Contraindications: If testosterone replacement is administered to men with normal, or near-normal levels, of the hormone, any number of dangerous side effects may occur. Most notably, excess doses of testosterone may inhibit the body's ability to produce testosterone.

Testosterone replacement carries with it the risk of stimulating both benign and malignant prostate tumor growth.

In addition, because it can reduce HDL cholesterol levels, testosterone replacement may be associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease.

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