Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 24, 2026

Combining Behavioral Endocrinology and Experimental Economics: Testosterone and Social Decision Making
Published on: March 2, 2011
Variations in costs and use of provincially-funded testosterone replacement therapy across Canada: a population-based
Mina Tadrous1,2,3, Diana Martins2, Kathy Lee4
1a Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute , St. Michael's Hospital , Toronto , ON , Canada.
Introduction:
Provincial drug-program policies for the reimbursement of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) vary across Canada, which may result in marked regional variability in use.
Methods:
We conducted a population-based cross-sectional analysis of provincially funded TRT spending and utilization in eight provinces across Canada in 2012. We reported the annual cost per user, total cost, and rate of use of TRT overall and by formulation.
Results:
We identified 23,544 provincially-funded recipients of TRT in 2012 in the eight provinces studied. Average annual cost per person varied by 3-fold, ranging from $173 (Prince Edward Island) to $485 (Ontario). Ontario also had the highest rate of use (1,105 users per 100,000 eligible) and the most liberal listing. Provinces with more restricted access (Alberta, British Columbia, and PEI) had lower annual costs per user ($293, $206, $173, respectively).
Conclusions:
Differing reimbursement policies for TRT products across Canada are likely contributing to variation in the rate of use and cost per recipient.
Related Concept Videos
Testosterone: Functions and Regulation
Pharmaceutical Alternatives: Stability-Related Therapeutic Nonequivalence
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Affecting Factors
Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra....
Dosage Regimen: Individualization
Bioequivalence: Overview

