Opinion | Emerging frontier of testosterone therapy: Revolutionizing men’s healthcare

Hypogonadism, a condition characterized by low testosterone levels, has become increasingly prevalent in the United States.

By Dhruv R. Patel, M.D., FAHA

The United States is in the throes of a grave and escalating health crisis, grappling with soaring rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease that have reached epidemic proportions. Over 40% of Americans are now considered to be obese, posing a significant challenge to public health. Additionally, more than 1 in 3 Americans, a staggering 96 million adults, are teetering on the brink of developing type 2 diabetes with prediabetes, further exacerbating the urgency of the situation. To compound matters, almost half of American adults suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease, making it one of the leading causes of death in the country.

These insidious conditions are often interlinked with hypogonadism, creating a dangerous web of health challenges that demand urgent attention. As the prevalence of Low T rises amidst an increasingly unhealthy population, it has become imperative to address this hormonal imbalance as a vital component of an integrated healthcare approach. Testosterone therapy has shown promise as a potential solution to combat the comorbidities associated with Low T, offering new hope for patients struggling with these interconnected health issues. By targeting the root cause and offering a multifaceted approach to treatment, testosterone therapy holds new promise for patients grappling with these interconnected health issues, making it a critical frontier in the battle for men’s health and well-being.

The Low T epidemic

Hypogonadism, a condition characterized by low testosterone levels, has become increasingly prevalent in the United States. Research indicates that up to 39% of men over the age of 45 experience Low T, and this percentage is likely to rise as the population ages. Moreover, lifestyle factors, stress, and other environmental influences have contributed to the growing number of men affected by this condition.

The Low T epidemic demands urgent attention and a proactive approach from both individuals and the healthcare community. Recognizing the symptoms of Low T, seeking appropriate medical evaluation, and understanding treatment options are crucial to addressing this issue effectively.

READ: Testosterone doses help men ward off heart disease, prolong life: study by cardiologist Dr. Rajat Barua (August 11, 2015)

Symptoms of Low T, such as decreased libido, fatigue, mood changes, and decreased muscle mass, can significantly impact a man’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Unfortunately, many men tend to overlook or dismiss these symptoms as part of the aging process, delaying seeking medical help. As a result, a substantial number of cases of Low T go undiagnosed and untreated.

In recent years, the landscape of healthcare has been witnessing significant advancements in testosterone therapy, offering hope to millions of men suffering from hypogonadism. As the incidence of hypogonadism in the United States continues to surge amidst an increasingly unhealthy population, testosterone therapy is emerging as a vital solution to address a range of related health issues. This article explores the groundbreaking developments in testosterone therapy, the importance of addressing Low T, and how it is proving beneficial for various comorbidities associated with this condition.

A new solution

Marius Pharmaceuticals is leading the charge in the development of testosterone therapy with its groundbreaking product, KYZATREX™. Unlike traditional testosterone treatments that often require injections, creams, gels, or patches, KYZATREX™ offers a remarkable advancement as an oral medication, revolutionizing the way testosterone therapy is administered. This feature eliminates the need for painful injections and the inconveniences associated with topical applications, making it a more patient-friendly alternative that ensures steady hormone levels, leading to improved health outcomes.

KYZATREX™ has shown to be absorbed via the lymphatic system, which ensures the effective delivery of testosterone but also reduces the risk of liver toxicity that can be associated with other oral medications. KYZATREX™ has a unique formulation that incorporates phytosterol esters, a lipid-lowering agent. In clinical trials, KYZATREX™ was found to be effective in raising testosterone levels in 9 out of 10 clinical trial participants.

Research has increasingly shown that testosterone therapy can have a positive impact on various comorbidities associated with hypogonadism. For instance:

• Obesity: Low testosterone levels have been linked to increased body fat and reduced muscle mass, contributing to obesity. Testosterone therapy can help improve body composition by promoting fat loss and muscle gain, aiding in weight management efforts.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Studies have revealed a correlation between Low T and insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Testosterone therapy has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of diabetes and aiding in glycemic control for those already diagnosed.
• Cardiovascular Disease: Hypogonadism has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. Testosterone therapy may improve cardiovascular health by enhancing vascular function and reducing arterial stiffness.

Importance of checkups

Amidst the rise in hypogonadism cases, regular testosterone level checkups have become vital for men’s health. Both total and free testosterone levels should be monitored to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early detection of Low T can lead to timely intervention and potentially prevent the development of associated comorbidities, enhancing the overall quality of life.

As medical science continues to make strides in understanding testosterone therapy and its implications for men’s health, this article is just the beginning of an ongoing series exploring the groundbreaking frontier of testosterone. Stay tuned for more articles that delve deeper into the latest research and developments about testosterone and its various roles within the body and relationship with other prevalent health conditions.

The emerging frontier of testosterone therapy is revolutionizing healthcare for men, offering new hope in the battle against Low T and its associated health challenges. As the Low T epidemic continues to impact men’s health across the nation, it is essential for individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers to take this issue seriously and collaborate in finding effective solutions. By addressing Low T through testosterone therapy and promoting awareness, we can usher in a new era of improved men’s health and well-being, ultimately transforming lives for the better.

(Dhruv R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and a Fellow of the American Heart Association Stroke Council. He is Board Certified in Vascular Neurology and Neuromuscular Medicine and Certified in Neuro-Rehabilitation. Dr. Patel has also a Fellowship in Clinical Neurophysiology and Diplomate in Clinical Neurology from the United Kingdom. The views expressed here are solely the author’s.)