The Use of a Transscrotal Testosterone Delivery System in the Treatment of Patients with Weight Loss Related to Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

In a study conducted from August 1995 to October 1996 involving 133 men with AIDS, weight loss, and hypogonadism, the efficacy of a transscrotal testosterone patch (6 mg/day) was tested to see if it could improve body cell mass and treat hypogonadism. The trial was multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled. Participants had either low morning serum total testosterone levels (<400 ng/dL) or low free testosterone levels (<16 pg/mL). After 12 weeks of treatment, although morning total and free testosterone levels increased in the testosterone-treated group, there were no significant differences in weight change or body cell mass between the testosterone and placebo groups. Additionally, there were no changes in quality of life. The study concluded that while the transscrotal testosterone patch can normalize serum sex hormone levels in hypogonadal men with AIDS and weight loss, it does not improve weight, body cell mass, or quality of life.