Testosterone supplementation for aging-associated sarcopenia.
Aging of humans is associated with a loss of muscle mass and function, and an increase in fat mass. Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated a correlation between bioavailable testosterone concentrations and fat-free mass and muscle strength. Testosterone replacement in older men with low testosterone levels increases fat-free mass and muscle strength, and decreases fat mass. However, we do not know whether testosterone replacement improves physical function and other health-related outcomes, or reduces the risk of disability, falls, or fractures in older men with low testosterone levels. The long-term risks and benefits of testosterone supplementation in older men are not known.
Bhasin
Shalender
S
Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Charles R. Drew University, Los Angeles, California 90059, USA. sbhasin@ucla.edu
D013741:3-Oxo-5-alpha-Steroid 4-Dehydrogenase / Q000378:metabolism; D000375:Aging; D000728:Androgens / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001823:Body Composition / Q000187:drug effects; D001835:Body Weight / Q000187:drug effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006801:Humans; D007006:Hypogonadism / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male; D009133:Muscular Atrophy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology*; D013739:Testosterone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000728:Androgens; D013739:Testosterone; D013741:3-Oxo-5-alpha-Steroid 4-Dehydrogenase