TLDR New treatments for low male hormones improved sexual function and mood but had unclear risks, especially for older men.
As of 2005, there was an increased recognition of male hypogonadism, leading to more frequent use of androgen substitution therapy. Diagnosis was based on clinical signs, symptoms, and low serum testosterone levels. Treatment with androgens generally improved sexual function, mood, muscle mass, and bone density in affected men. However, the potential risks, especially in older men, were not well understood. A variety of delivery systems for androgen therapy were available, with the choice depending on patient and physician preference. Additionally, selective androgen receptor modulators were being considered for their potential to provide targeted biological effects with fewer side effects.
506 citations,
March 2005 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Testosterone therapy improves physical function, strength, and body composition in older men with low testosterone levels.
417 citations,
February 2004 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Testosterone therapy increases bone density in older men with low testosterone levels.
129 citations,
January 2004 in “Journal of medicinal chemistry” Researchers developed new compounds that target the androgen receptor effectively with fewer side effects.
658 citations,
June 2003 in “Endocrine reviews” Male hormones may play a role in the development of heart disease, and more research is needed to understand their effects.
110 citations,
April 2002 in “The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism/Journal of clinical endocrinology & metabolism” Dihydrotestosterone gel improved well-being and sexual function in older men without negatively affecting prostate health.
77 citations,
May 2012 in “Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs” New treatments for male hypogonadism are effective and should be personalized.
441 citations,
May 2008 in “British Journal of Pharmacology” Anabolic steroids can build muscle and strength but have risks and need more research on their clinical benefits and side effects.
February 2023 in “IntechOpen eBooks” Testosterone replacement therapy helps manage deficiency and has various methods, but requires careful monitoring to avoid side effects.
658 citations,
June 2003 in “Endocrine reviews” Male hormones may play a role in the development of heart disease, and more research is needed to understand their effects.
2 citations,
January 2017 in “Endocrinology” Testosterone and its metabolites have varied effects on different body systems, especially during puberty.
