
The essential aim of testosterone replacement therapy is to restore serum testosterone to the middle of the normal physiological range and to minimize the signs and symptoms of hypogonadism.1-7 In all types of male hypogonadism testosterone replacement therapy forms the core of the treatment. A number of different androgen preparations and dosage forms are available, and treatment can be individualized to correct the testosterone deficiency in primary and secondary hypogonadism and to enhance patient health and well-being.1-6
Testosterone replacement therapy is characterized by a wide margin of safety and good tolerability. Treatment can be initiated when a diagnosis of hypogonadism has been confirmed and contraindications ruled out. Close monitoring of the treatment is essential.
References:
1. Bhasin S, Cunningham GR, Hayes FJ, et al. Testosterone therapy in adult men with androgen deficiency syndromes: an endocrine society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91(6): 1995-2010.
2. Qoubaitary A, Swerdloff RS, Wang C. Advances in male hormone substitution therapy. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2005; 6(9): 1493-506.
3. Seftel A. Testosterone replacement therapy for male hypogonadism: part III. Pharmacologic and clinical profiles, monitoring, safety issues, and potential future agents. Int J Impot Res 2007; 19(1): 2-24
4. Sharma V, Perros P. The management of hypogonadism in aging male patients. Postgrad Med 2009; 121(1): 113-21
5. Tung DS, Cunningham GR. Androgen deficiency in men. The Endocrinologist 2007; 17(2): 101-115
6. Zitzmann M, Nieschlag E. Testosterone substitution: current modalities and perspectives. J Reproduktionsmed Endokrinol 2006; 3(2): 109-116
7.Wang, C., E. Nieschlag, R. Swerdloff, et al. Investigation, treatment and monitoring of late-onset hypogonadism in males: ISA, ISSAM, EAU, EAA and ASA recommendations. Eur J Endocrinol 2008, 159(5): 507-514