Androgen therapy is a form of hormone replacement therapy that replaces or supplements the male hormone testosterone. This type of therapy is used to treat conditions associated with low testosterone levels in men, such as hypogonadism. Androgen therapy may be administered as injections, skin gels, pellets, or patches, and can help to relieve symptoms such as decreased sexual desire, fatigue, and muscle weakness. However, androgen therapy can also have side effects, such as acne, breast enlargement, and an increased risk of prostate cancer, so it is important to talk to a doctor about the potential benefits and risks of androgen therapy before starting treatment.
- Side effects: HRT may cause unwanted side effects such as weight gain, hot flashes, mood changes, and breast tenderness.
- Interactions with cancer treatment: HRT may interfere with cancer treatment or increase the risk of recurrence, so it is important to talk to a doctor before starting HRT.
- Hormone levels: HRT may not restore testosterone levels to normal, leading to persistent symptoms of low testosterone.
- Cancer risk: Some studies have suggested a link between HRT and increased risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer, so it is important to weigh the potential benefits and risks.
- Individual response: HRT may not be effective for everyone and individual response can vary.
- Long-term effects: The long-term effects of HRT on men with testicular cancer are not well understood, so caution is recommended.