As many as 4 to 5 million men in the United States may suffer from testosterone deficiency, but only about 5% receive testosterone replacement therapy.
How does it happen? In most men, testosterone production is automatic and effortless. Testosterone is produced by the testes in response to signals sent out by the hypothalmus and the pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain). However, in some men, the testes may be unable to fulfill the body’s testosterone needs. This condition, called hypogonadism, can result from a variety of causes. Among the causes are chromosomal abnormalities, side effects from certain medications, pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, or injury to the testes.
Whatever the cause, low testosterone levels can result in decreased sexual function, decreased sexual desire, diminished energy, and depressed mood.
Erectile dysfunction (ED). A sign of testosterone deficiency:
Typically, erectile dysfunction refers to the inability to maintain an erection.
A variety of therapies are offered to treat ED. However, these therapies work on
the blood-vessel aspects (known as vascular) of an erection rather than on the hormonal
ones. But sometimes, ED is caused by testosterone deficiency, particularly if there's
low sexual desire. And if there's an underlying testosterone deficiency, vascular
therapy may not be appropriate or effective. A correct
diagnosis is critical to getting the correct therapy and expected results
— and that begins with a standard blood test.
Safety Information
If you are over 55 years of age, treatment with androgens (such as testosterone) may increase the risk of benign enlargement of the prostate and may promote the growth of existing cancer of the prostate. While using Androderm, some patients may experience skin irritation at the application site. To reduce the risk of such irritation, the patch should not be applied to the same place more than once a week. If irritation occurs and persists in spite of rotating the patch, it may be ameliorated by applying 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide cream. Androderm must not be used by women. Androderm should not be used by men who have breast cancer or by men who are suspected to have cancer of the prostate. Also, Androderm should not be used by men who are hypersensitive to any of the patch components. Adverse events reported by > 5% of patients in clinical trials of Androderm (n=122): pruritus at application site, 37%; burn-like blister reaction under system, 12%; erythema at application site, 7%; vesicles at application site, 6%; prostate abnormalities, 5%. In geriatric patients, treatment with testosterone may increase the risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia and may promote the growth of existing prostate cancer. Androderm should not be applied over bony prominences or over areas subject to prolonged pressure. Androderm must not be used in women. Please see Prescribing Information. |
