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Comparing Rates of Polycythemia in Hypogonadal Men Using Nasal Testosterone Gel Versus Intramuscular Testosterone:
Jesse Ory1, Parris Diaz2, Marco-Jose Rivero2
1Department of Urology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
European Urology Focus
|September 15, 2022
Summary
Men using intranasal testosterone for hypogonadism had fewer cases of polycythemia compared to those receiving intramuscular testosterone cypionate injections. This suggests a potential difference in side effect profiles between testosterone formulations.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Men's Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hypogonadism is a condition characterized by the testes not producing enough testosterone.
- Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is commonly prescribed to manage hypogonadism.
- Polycythemia, an increase in red blood cell mass, is a potential side effect of TRT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the incidence of polycythemia in men with hypogonadism treated with intranasal testosterone versus intramuscular testosterone cypionate.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient data.
- Comparison of polycythemia development between two groups receiving different testosterone formulations.
Main Results:
- Men using intranasal testosterone exhibited a lower likelihood of developing polycythemia.
- Intramuscular testosterone cypionate was associated with a higher incidence of polycythemia.
Conclusions:
- Intranasal testosterone may be associated with a reduced risk of polycythemia compared to intramuscular testosterone cypionate in men with hypogonadism.
- This finding could inform the choice of TRT formulation to mitigate specific side effects.
