Exogenous Testosterone or Testosterone with Finasteride Increases Bone Mineral Density in Older Men with Low Serum Testosterone

This study from 19 years ago investigated the effects of testosterone therapy on bone mineral density (BMD) in older men with low serum testosterone levels. The study involved 70 men aged 65 years and older who were randomized into three groups: testosterone-only, testosterone with finasteride, and placebo. The results showed that testosterone therapy, with or without finasteride, significantly increased BMD in older men with low serum testosterone levels. The addition of finasteride did not affect the increase in BMD but minimized the potential for adverse effects on prostate health. The study suggests that testosterone replacement therapy may be beneficial for older men with low testosterone levels who are at risk for osteoporosis.