Question: What can I do about my low testosterone level?
Dr. Hibberd’s Answer:
Testosterone, regulated by our pituitary gland, is a masculinizing steroid hormone that plays an important role in sex drives and normal body function in both males and females. Deficiency of it commonly results in decreased libido and fatigue.
Testing of testosterone levels is available, but there is some variation in techniques used from lab to lab, and standardization of measurements has not yet been accomplished. There is much debate among some physicians who advocate full replacement of deficiency, while others feel that replacement is indicated only for symptomatic patients.
Testosterone replacement, though popular, may not be entirely without risk in some patients. Recent publications on testosterone replacement for asymptomatic patients have cautioned about increased vascular risks. This hormone requires a transdermal (patch/gel) or injection route to be reliably absorbed.
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