Andropause & Low Testosterone
A common misconception is that females are the only ones that go through “the change” during their 40’s and 50’s. However, studies show that 70% of the general public believes that men experience a mid-life stage similar to menopause in women. When these mid-life stages affect women they experience physical symptoms that are very noticeable and last anywhere from months to 5 years, where men experience subtle changes over a longer period of time (anywhere from 10-15 years). So while the days of high school and puberty are long gone and while you may feel stable hormonally there is a good chance that you are entering or experiencing andropause.
Andropause describes the progressive decline in androgen production. During andropause there are three main changes that occur in an almost chain-like reaction
- A drop in testosterone levels
- An increase in Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
- An increase in production of aromatase
Treatment Options
While andropause is part of the natural aging process the side effects from hormone imbalance may cause a disruption in living a quality and fulfilling daily life. Testosterone replacement helps, not only with symptoms, but also decreases disease risks that are usually associated with the aging process, such as, heart disease and diabetes. It is important to remember that 95% of hormones found in the blood are bound to circulating proteins. In the bound state, they are unavailable to fit into receptors and be delivered to tissues. There are considered inactive or non-bioavailable.
Want to know more about testosterone, estrogen, DHEA, and cortisol? Check out our andropause handout here!
Getting Started
If you know you are suffering from symptoms of andropause and looking to start testosterone replacement, we recommended talking to your doctor about your symptoms. If your physician is not familiar with testosterone replacement. Core Pharmacy is happy to discuss therapy options with them. We can also refer you to a physician we currently work closely with as another option.
If you are unsure if testosterone replacement is the right choice for you, you may benefit from a consultation with the pharmacist here at Core Pharmacy. Click here for more information about [consultations].
Already on testosterone replacement, but unhappy with the results?
We make dosing easy! From topicals to rapid dissolve tablets, we are happy to help you find a dosing solution to fit your lifestyle that makes it easy and cost-effective!
Note: Testosterone is only available by a prescription from your prescriber.