A correct diagnosis is critical to getting the correct therapy and expected results — and that begins with a standard blood test.
As men age, their testosterone levels normally decline. It may begin as early as the mid-30s. For example, from the mid-20s to mid-40s, a man’s testosterone level can decline as much as 17%, on average. By his mid-60s, levels may be as much as 32% lower than levels of his youth.
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 tests show that your testosterone level is less than desirable, 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
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. |
