Testosterone treatment
Facts
Testosterone is the male sex hormone
Testosterone is important for male hair growth, deep voice and increased muscle mass
In certain diseases in men, the levels of testosterone are very low. Therefore, treatment with testosterone may be necessary
Abuse of testosterone is a serious risk to one's health
Normal women have a low level of testosterone
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the manly sex hormone. In men, testosterone produces body hair, a deep voice and strong muscles.
Normal amounts of testosterone in the body keep sex drive at a normal level. Some people suffer from diseases that mean they need testosterone supplements. Testosterone must be prescribed by a doctor.
Normal women also have a low amount of testosterone in their bodies.
What is testosterone treatment used for and who needs it?
Men who have had the production of testosterone destroyed by disease or treatment will benefit from testosterone. In Denmark, treatment with testosterone is exclusively recommended for this group of people.
Many men with a low amount of testosterone in their body have a low sex drive, are at risk of losing muscle and bone mass and experience increased fatigue. Treatment with testosterone is thought to help with these symptoms.
Low sex drive/impotence can also be seen in men with normal testosterone. These should not be treated with extra testosterone.
Is it safe to take testosterone?
Not enough research has been done to know what happens when you take testosterone over a long period of time. Some believe that treatment with testosterone can stimulate cancer cells in prostate cancer or breast cancer. High doses can damage the liver, blood and possibly the heart.<br>
Does testosterone have side effects?
In men, high doses of testosterone can cause the prostate gland to grow and the number of red blood cells in the blood to increase, giving unclean skin.
In case of overdose, a tendency towards aggressive behavior is also seen.
How do I take testosterone?
Men can be treated with testosterone in the form of gel or as injections, and rarely as tablets.<br>
Testosterone as doping
Anabolic steroids are testosterone compounds that are used by male and female athletes to enhance their performance. Their use has significantly influenced international sports over the past 50 years.
In recent times, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has gained popularity. This substance can raise testosterone levels in the body. Many athletes believe it will improve their performance, but there is no clear evidence for this. Side effects are breast development in men, impure skin (acne), unfavorable level of cholesterol, increased body hair.
Use of testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is perceived as a serious health risk.
Doping
If athletes use testosterone, it will result in disqualification.<br>