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Frequently Asked Questions About Andropause (Male Menopause)
What is andropause or male menopause?
Similar to menopause in women, andropause arrives in a man’s life when there
is a drastic drop in hormone levels. When levels of testosterone fall, the
condition is called hypogonadism (hypo=low, gonad=testis). Although total
testosterone may not drop drastically, free testosterone, or the active form
of testosterone, drops significantly with age.
What are some of the symptoms of andropause?
Symptoms may include:
Fatigue
Lack of sex drive
Depression
Aches and pains
Decreased strength and endurance
Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
Hot flashes
Osteoporosis
Obesity
Erectile dysfunction
Muscle loss
What can I do?
Hormone replacement therapy may help reverse some of the negative effects of
low testosterone. Biologically identical testosterone is the same molecular
structure and might produce the same effects as the free form of testosterone
produced by the testes.
What are biologically identical hormones?
Biologically identical testosterone is derived from soybeans. It has the
same molecular structure and may help produce the same effects as the free form of
testosterone produced by the testes.
Are there any side effects?
Before testosterone replacement is initiated, your doctor should order a PSA
(prostate specific antigen) test. DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a metabolite
of testosterone that might accelerate cancer growth. Otherwise, physiologic
doses of testosterone may have no adverse side effects taken in proper doses.
How are biologically-identical hormones administered?
Biologically identical testosterone therapies include topical gels and
sublingual tablets (dissolved under the tongue) and pellets. Biologically
identical testosterone is not absorbed through the stomach when taken by
mouth. Topical gels are applied once per day and sublingual tablets are
taken twice per day. Pellets are inserted by the doctor and release a steady
amount of testosterone over three to six months.
How do I find a doctor who will prescribe biologically-identical hormones?
Please CONTACT US at College Pharmacy.
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