Description

Testosterone replacement therapy is indicated for the treatment of male hypogonadism. This can arise from primary testicular failure or secondary to gonadotrophin deficiency as a result of pituitary or hypothalamic disease. Testosterone is necessary to induce and maintain secondary sexual characteristics, lean body mass, bone density and also for normal sexual behaviour and cognitive function in men. Currently available formulations include oral testosterone undecanoate, depot injections of testosterone enanthate or cypionate, subcutaneous implants and transdermal preparations. Recent advances include testosterone gels and buccal testosterone. Prostate specific antigen, haematocrit,  liver function and lipid parameters should be monitored during androgen replacement therapy. This article reviews the various testosterone formulations currently available in clinical practice for the treatment of male hypogonadism.