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Article: Testosterone replacement for male hypogonadism.(Drug Update)
- Article from:
- Family Practice News
- Article date:
- June 1, 2005
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2005 International Medical News Group. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Testosterone replacement therapy is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for men with hypogonadism resulting from the failure of the testes to produce testosterone. Men with true hypogonadism have symptoms of sexual dysfunction, low libido, fatigue, muscle weakness, bone loss, and diminished well-being, with testosterone levels lower than about 300 ng/dL. Normal levels generally fall between 300 ng/dL and 800 ng/dL.
Before testosterone is prescribed, a history and physical are necessary to rule out other causes of symptoms. At a minimum, laboratory tests should include morning levels of total testosterone, prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone, and ...