Low testosterone, clinically known as hypogonadism, is a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone — the primary male sex hormone. While testosterone naturally declines with age (approximately 1-2% per year after age 30), some men experience more significant drops that substantially impact their quality of life.
Symptoms of low testosterone can be subtle and are often attributed to 'normal aging.' Common signs include persistent fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat (especially around the midsection), mood changes including depression and irritability, difficulty concentrating, and decreased bone density.
Diagnosis requires both clinical symptoms and laboratory confirmation. Most guidelines define low testosterone as a total testosterone level below 300 ng/dL, measured via morning blood draw (testosterone levels peak in the early morning). Providers should also assess free testosterone, SHBG, LH, FSH, and prolactin to determine the underlying cause.
Treatment options for low testosterone include testosterone cypionate injections (the most common and cost-effective approach), topical gels and creams, subcutaneous pellets, and nasal preparations. The choice of delivery method depends on patient preference, insurance coverage, and clinical factors.
Compounded testosterone offers advantages over commercial products in several scenarios. Custom concentrations allow for precise dose titration, combination formulations (such as testosterone with anastrozole) improve convenience and compliance, and alternative delivery methods like topical creams can be tailored to individual absorption patterns.
Monitoring is critical during testosterone therapy. Providers should check testosterone levels, hematocrit, PSA, lipid panel, and liver function at regular intervals. The goal is to restore testosterone to the mid-normal range while minimizing side effects.
Logos RX compounds testosterone cypionate in multiple concentrations for intramuscular and subcutaneous injection, as well as topical formulations. Our pharmacists are available to consult with providers on dosing strategies and formulation options.
Questions about this topic?
Our pharmacists are available to consult with providers and answer questions about formulations, dosing, and patient care.