Testosterone Supplementation for Aging-Associated Sarcopenia

The 2003 review article examined the effects of testosterone supplementation on sarcopenia in older men, noting that testosterone can increase muscle mass and strength by increasing fat-free mass and muscle fiber size, particularly in men with low testosterone levels. The review highlighted that while testosterone has anabolic effects and can alter muscle composition, the long-term impact on physical function, health outcomes, and risks such as disability and mortality was not well understood at the time. It also pointed out the need for further research to clarify the molecular mechanisms of testosterone-induced muscle growth and to assess the long-term risks associated with testosterone therapy, especially concerning prostate and cardiovascular health. The document did not provide specific participant numbers from the studies it referenced, indicating that the conclusions were drawn from a synthesis of multiple studies rather than a single large-scale study.