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Andropause: invention, prevention, rejuvenation

David J Handelsman1, Peter Y Liu

  • 1Department of Andrology, Concord Hospital, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2139, Australia. djh@anzac.edu.au

Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism: TEM
|March 1, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Testosterone therapy for aging men, often called andropause, is a growing trend. However, current evidence for its benefits on male reproductive health during aging is questionable and requires critical evaluation.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Male Reproductive Health
  • Gerontology

Background:

  • Growing interest in testosterone therapy for middle-aged and older men.
  • Emergence of the concept 'andropause' to describe age-related testosterone decline.
  • Concerns about unsubstantiated trends mirroring past rejuvenation fads and estrogen therapy for menopause.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Critically evaluate the current status and future prospects of androgen therapy in aging men.
  • Assess the scientific basis for using testosterone therapy to enhance male reproductive health during aging.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current scientific knowledge and literature.
  • Critical appraisal of existing evidence on androgen therapy and aging.
  • Focus on male reproductive health outcomes.

Main Results:

  • The scientific basis for widespread androgen therapy in aging men is currently questionable.
  • Evidence supporting the improvement of male reproductive health through testosterone therapy is limited.
  • Potential risks and benefits require careful consideration.

Conclusions:

  • Androgen therapy for aging men lacks robust scientific evidence for improving reproductive health.
  • The trend of 'andropause' treatment warrants critical scientific scrutiny.
  • Further research is needed to establish the efficacy and safety of testosterone therapy in this population.

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