Review of Adverse Effects and Benefits for TRT

[Jinzang]

It seems to be the season for doing meta-analyses of TRT. This study restricted its attention to randomized clinical trials. It found four studies that met its criteria. The results:

We found 11 publications, reporting on 4 eligible trials (including 1,779 patients) at low risk of bias. Compared to placebo, TRT was associated with a small but significant increase in sexual desire or libido, erectile function, and sexual satisfaction, but had no effect on energy or mood. TRT was associated with an increased risk of developing erythrocytosis compared to placebo, but had no significant effect on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). In hypogonadal men TRT improves sexual desire, erectile function, and sexual satisfaction, however it increases the risk of erythrocytosis.

The abstract is available online. Erythrocytosis is another name for polycythemia (excess red blood cells). I have no quarrel with the conclusion, except that I and many other men online have noticed that TRT definitely improves self-confidence and reduces anxiety.

 

[Saul]

Thanks for posting. TRT "had no effect on energy or mood." I don't agree with that aspect of it. Pretty far off from my experience unless there are other reasons for my increase in energy and mood due to having changed several things at the same time.