TESTOSTERONE MATTERS: UNDERSTANDING LOW TESTOSTERONE AND ITS TREATMENT
Testosterone plays a crucial role in men’s health, influencing energy levels, mood, muscle mass and overall well-being. However, declining testosterone levels - often referred to as Low T - are becoming an increasingly common concern.
F
or pharmacists, understanding Low T is essential, as more men are seeking advice on managing symptoms and exploring
treatment options.
Understanding Testosterone and Its Role in Health Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, produced mainly in the testes. It is responsible for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, libido and mental sharpness. While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, some men experience a more significant reduction, leading to a range of symptoms that can affect quality of life.
Low testosterone can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, depression, reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat and difficulties with concentration or memory. Given that many symptoms overlap with other health conditions such as thyroid disorders, depression, or diabetes, pharmacists play a key role in helping patients recognise potential hormonal imbalances and seek appropriate medical intervention.
Prevalence and Risk Factors Factors contributing to declining testosterone levels include aging, obesity, chronic illnesses (such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease), lifestyle factors (such as poor diet and lack of exercise) and certain medications, including opioids and corticosteroids. Additionally, stress and poor sleep, both of which are prevalent among busy professionals and shift workers, can contribute to hormonal imbalances.
The Pharmacist’s Role Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms of Low T, making pharmacists a crucial resource in recognising symptoms and advising on potential next steps.
Pharmacists can support patients by: • Educating them about the signs of Low T and when to seek medical evaluation.
• Advising on lifestyle changes that may naturally boost testosterone levels.
• Reviewing medication history to identify potential drug-induced testosterone deficiencies.
• Encouraging patients to undergo blood tests for accurate diagnosis.
Given that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a prescription-only treatment, pharmacists in Northern Ireland have an important role in ensuring that patients receive the right guidance and monitoring throughout their treatment journey.
40
pharmacyinfocus.com
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48
