Hormone Therapy - Men Testosterone While men's bodies do make other hormones, when male hormones are mentioned the first thing that comes to people's minds is usually "testosterone". The blood levels of testosterone in men decrease over time (known as andropause) just as estrogen levels decrease in women. There is mounting evidence that men would benefit from testosterone replacement just as women benefit from replacement of bio-identical estrogen and progesterone. These lower levels of testosterone have been found to be a risk factor for arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. There are many benefits to supplemental natural testosterone, including increased libido (sex drive) and performance, lower levels of cholesterol, increased lean muscle mass, and decreased bone loss (osteoporosis). There is no evidence that supplemental testosterone causes prostate cancer. However, for the sake of caution, all men over the age of 45 (or younger if using supplemental testosterone) should have an annual PSA (prostate specific antigen) test and not supplement testosterone if any problems are noted. Another thing men should do is to take Saw Palmetto (an herb) for the health of their prostate gland. This is particularly important if the man is supplementing testosterone. There are several forms available for supplementation. Most physicians are familiar with injectable testosterone which is typically given monthly, but there are a couple of problems with that dosage form. The effect is very rapid, (because it immediately increases the blood levels) with many men feeling much better physically after just 1 dose. However, over the next few weeks, the blood level will fall, and in many men the excess is converted to estrogen, which in higher levels is very harmful to men. There are now topical forms, such as creams and gels, with both giving good results. Also lozenges taken between the cheek and gum are often effective. There are also some supplements which can lessen the conversion of testosterone to estrogen as described above.

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