Exogenous Testosterone Alone or with Finasteride Increases Physical Performance, Grip Strength, and Lean Body Mass in Older Men with Low Serum Testosterone

This document is a summary of several studies that investigated the effects of exogenous testosterone (T) alone or with finasteride on physical performance, grip strength, and lean body mass in older men with low serum T levels. The studies found that T therapy, either alone or in combination with finasteride, can improve physical function, strength, and body composition in older men with low serum T levels. The therapy also altered body composition and decreased fat distribution, serum lipids, and leptin levels. However, the clinical significance of the magnitude of improvement in physical performance seen in these studies is not known, and larger, long-term, randomized placebo-controlled trials are warranted to address the specific benefits and risks of testosterone replacement.