Andropause and Testosterone Replacement

Men often experience a decline in testosterone levels that correlate with hormonal changes during andropause ('Male Menopause'). A man's testosterone level usually begins to drop by the time he reaches the age of 50, but for some, it may occur sooner. Unlike women, men have more of a gradual and subtle hormonal decline, in which symptoms develop over a longer period of time. Testosterone replacement restores hormones back to physiological levels, dramatically reversing the changes associated with andropause.

Some of the benefits of Testosterone replacement in men over 50 years of age include:

• Improvement in erectile dysfunction
• Increased libido (sex drive)
• Improvement in psychological well-being and mood
• Increased muscle mass, stature, and strength
• Preservation of bone mass
• Possible decrease in cardiovascular risk

In addition to testosterone, andropause therapy may also include dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and other supplements such as zinc, chrysin, and selenium. At HB Apothecary, our pharmacists will work closely with patients and physicians in order to compound customized andropause therapy medications in the most suitable strengths and dosage forms to meet each man’s unique needs. Andropause therapy should be initiated after physical examination and requires close monitoring to appropriately adjust medication dosage. Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise also play an important role in enhancing therapy results.