09 Nov 2009
A new trial is set to get underway to determine whether testosterone therapy can favourably affect certain conditions affecting older men.
Led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, US, the trial will involve participants suffering from low testosterone levels receiving a testosterone gel, which is applied to the torso, abdomen or upper arms.
Levels of serum testosterone will then be measured monthly for an initial three months and then every quarter in order to evaluate physical function, cognition, vitality, cardiovascular disease and sexual function.
Director of the US National Institute on Aging Evan Hadley said the study is important because testosterone products have been marketed for a number of years as having benefits for a number of conditions.
"We hope this trial will establish whether testosterone therapy results in clear benefits for older men," he commented.
Low serum testosterone can result in a number of problems in older men, including a reduced ability to walk, a loss of muscle mass and strength and impaired cognition.
It can also lead to erectile dysfunction, such are the hormonal changes that occur because of low testosterone levels.
Visit the Quick Guide to Low Testosterone
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