A correct diagnosis is critical to getting the correct therapy and expected results — and that begins with a standard blood test.
Several cross-sectional and longitudinal studies demonstrate that serum total and free testosterone concentrations in men fall with increasing age. Although the fall is gradual, by the eighth decade, according to one study, 30% of men had testosterone values in the hypogonadal range, and 50% had low free testosterone levels. The rate of age-related decline in serum testosterone levels varies in different individuals, and is affected by chronic disease and medications.
This decline in testosterone level is a natural transition. For most men, the decline is not a problem. But if you have symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, fatigue, and depressed mood, you may be testosterone deficient.
A standard blood test can diagnose deficiency. If the test shows that your total testosterone is less than 300ng/dl, you may benefit from testosterone replacement therapy.
Take the T-Quiz. The questionnaire may help you decide if you need to talk to your doctor about checking your testosterone levels.
Safety Information
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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. |
