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Acute anti-ischemic effect of testosterone in men with coronary artery disease

G M Rosano1, F Leonardo, P Pagnotta

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Istituto H. San Raffaele, Roma and Milano, Italy. rosanog@roma.hsr.it

Circulation
|April 6, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Short-term testosterone administration improved exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in men with coronary artery disease. This hormone may offer a direct coronary-relaxing effect, benefiting heart health.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Exercise Physiology

Background:

  • The role of testosterone in male coronary artery disease (CAD) is debated.
  • Higher CAD incidence in men suggests a testosterone link, yet it may improve coronary artery function.
  • This study investigated acute testosterone's impact on exercise-induced myocardial ischemia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect of acute testosterone administration on exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in men with coronary artery disease.
  • To determine if testosterone influences the physiological responses to exercise stress in these patients.

Main Methods:

  • 14 men with CAD underwent three randomized exercise tests (baseline, testosterone, placebo) after antianginal therapy withdrawal.
  • Tests followed a modified Bruce protocol, with testosterone (2.5 mg IV) or placebo administered 30 minutes prior.
  • Outcomes included ST-segment depression, chest pain, exercise duration, heart rate, and rate-pressure product.

Main Results:

  • Testosterone reduced the incidence of positive exercise tests (ST-segment depression) and reported chest pain compared to placebo.
  • Testosterone significantly increased time to ST-segment depression and total exercise duration.
  • The hormone elevated heart rate and rate-pressure product at ST-segment onset and peak exercise.

Conclusions:

  • Acute testosterone administration demonstrated a beneficial effect on exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in men with CAD.
  • The findings suggest a potential direct coronary-relaxing effect of testosterone.
  • Testosterone may be a therapeutic option for managing myocardial ischemia in specific male populations.
Abstract

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