A number of physical changes are possible, such as increased body fat, reduced muscle mass and strength, and decreased bone density.
Testosterone replacement
therapy (TRT) has been used in millions of men worldwide to treat decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, and to improve strength and physical function. The estimated likelihood of long-term adverse effects of TRT remains virtually unknown, as high-quality evidence based on prospective randomized trials that recommend or does not recommend its use in most men with testosterone (TD) deficiency is generally lacking. Evidence to suggest that TRT increases the risks of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is scarce, as results vary depending on the populations studied and their comorbidities basals.While TRT can increase serum levels of prostatic specific antigens in some men, it often stays within clinically acceptable ranges and has not been shown to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Current literature supports that TRT does not substantially worsen lower urinary tract symptoms and, in fact, may improve symptoms in some men. Limited evidence suggests that TRT may initially worsen obstructive sleep apnea in some men, but that this effect is not long-lasting. TRT may cause erythrocytosis in some men; however, long-term studies have not reported significant adverse effects (e.g.
stroke, vascular occlusive events, venous thromboembolism). Future research will need to focus exclusively on evaluating large multiethnic cohorts of men using prospective trials to better elucidate the risk-risk relationship of TRT in relation to cardiovascular diseases, prostate cancer, lower urinary tract symptoms, obstructive sleep apnea, erythrocytosis and other theoretical risks to be determined in men with or without cardiovascular risk equivalents. Men turn to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to increase energy levels, muscle mass and sexual desire. Testosterone therapy can help reverse the effects of hypogonadism, but it's not clear if testosterone therapy would benefit older men who, therefore, In addition, they are healthy.
While this study also demonstrates the desired effect of decreasing prostate volume, it failed to demonstrate any significant improvement in symptom scores or objective measures of urinary function. Side effects reported in children who have been in contact with these drugs include genital enlargement, premature pubic hair growth, increased self-stimulation and aggressive behavior. The most commonly reported side effects include acne, enlarged male breasts, and prostate disorders. The estimated likelihood of long-term adverse effects of TRT remains virtually unknown, as there is generally a lack of high-quality evidence to discourage its use in most men with TD.
Testosterone replacement therapy, in the form of injections, pills, patches, or gels, can improve the signs and symptoms of low testosterone levels in these men. Another side effect of TRT is polycythemia, a condition characterized by increased levels of red blood cells. The risk of cardiovascular problems led consumer advocacy groups to call for a black box to be included in all containers of testosterone drugs. It's also possible that these conditions cause low testosterone levels, so treatment may cause increased testosterone levels.
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 in otherwise healthy men. For older men, it is important to determine if a low testosterone level is due to normal aging or if it is due to a disease (hypogonadism). Some of these signs and symptoms may be due to other factors, such as medication side effects, obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid problems, diabetes, and depression. Women who are pregnant, who may become pregnant, or who are breastfeeding should not use testosterone and should avoid contact with an area of the skin where topical gels have been applied.
Accidental exposure in children who live or interact closely with men who use topical testosterone medications is a serious problem.
