Androgen Replacement Therapy; Primarily Used to Treat Low Testosterone (T) Levels
Androgen replacement therapy (ART), also known as hormone
replacement therapy (HRT) or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), is a form
of hormone therapy in which androgens are replaced. It involves the
administration of testosterone through subcutaneous pellets, gels, patches,
skin creams, or injections. It is a promising technology that helps improve
symptoms of hypogonadism and to raise testosterone level. Hypogonadism means
diminished functional activity of the gonads that may result in diminished
production of sex hormones.
Primary hypogonadism is caused due to radiation treatment,
orchitis, testicular trauma, genetic abnormalities, or chemotherapy, whereas
secondary hypogonadism is caused due to genetic abnormalities of hypothalamus
and pituitary gland. Androgen replacement therapy aims
is to reduce the levels of male hormones, called androgens, in the body, or to
stop them from fueling prostate cancer cells. ART blocks male hormone receptors
and can suppress the testosterone production. Systemic estrogen therapy is one
of the most effective treatment for the relief of troublesome menopausal hot
flashes and night sweats.
Clinical hypogonadism is the only FDA-approved (the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration) indication for androgen replacement therapy in
men. However, it is not approved to treat age-related low testosterone. This
type of treatment is prescribed for men who have low naturally produced
testosterone levels because of various factors, such as age, disease, or
excessive weight loss. Moreover, men who are undergoing treatments for low sex
drive should be aware of the risk of side effects, and the benefits of
testosterone replacement therapy.
Some men with unnaturally low levels of testosterone can
benefit from hormone therapy. It's a good age to start treatment as the decline
is only just beginning. Androgen replacement therapy is evolving as a potential
treatment option for various other conditions related to testosterone loss,
such as sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and even psychological symptoms.
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