Effects Of Transdermal Testosterone Supplementation On Bone Health, Muscle Strength, And Frailty In Older Men With Low Testosterone And Osteoporosis
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Abstract
This study investigated the effects of transdermal testosterone supplementation in frail elderly men with low bone mass and low testosterone. Randomly selected, one hundred forty-two men received testosterone or placebo treatment. Testosterone levels increased significantly, and axial bone mineral density (BMD) improved, particularly in the spine, but muscle strength and physical performance did not change significantly. Positive changes in body composition include fat mass loss and lean mass gain. There was no difference in side effects between the two groups after 12-24 months of intervention. Study results showed testosterone therapy may not significantly affect bone reserve, but it does affect muscle activity and infirmities associated with such groups. Health-related issues forced some respondents to stop taking the medication due to mediocre compliance. It is important to study the dose and long-term efficacy of the same for elderly men in weak physical condition.
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References
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