TREATMENT OF ANDROPAUSE

It is established that Andropause is due to deficiency of bioavailable (free) Testosterone. Therefore, the obvious treatment would be to give Testosterone to the afflicted individuals.
Before suggesting Testosterone, a total hormonal assay of an individual is essential. This is to provide the baseline value of different hormones that may also change after giving Testosterone. Moreover the dosage of Testosterone would depend upon the baseline level of Testosterone. Both to establish the diagnosis and to monitor the treatment properly, laboratory measurements of the sex hormones and the complex range of factors regulating their action, together with tests of blood fat, liver, kidney, and prostate function and hematology profile, all need to be checked before treatment and at each follow-up assessment.
The quiz is only to give a rough estimate for the individual and to warn him to consult his physician if he falls in line so that he is saved from the long-term serious effects of Andropause. The earlier this treatment is taken the better it would at the end. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is most effective when right dosage is given at the right time.
Once again it is emphasized that testosterone therapy may only to be started where there are definite symptoms and signs of Andropause and at the same time the testosterone levels are low. Testosterone Replacement has been shown to be very effective in improving the physiological and psychological functions of the individual

Testosterone Replacement is available in following forms:
Pills
Cap Cernos ( Testosterone undecanoate in oil) 40mg. Depending upon the level of testosterone 1-4 capsules can be given in a day
Transdermal Preparations
Testoderm, Androderm)
In transdermal testosterone, the hormone is released slowly through the skin to deliver a constant level in the blood. Transdermal testosterone can be applied either to the scrotal area or to other areas.
Injections
Injection Cernos 1000mg (depot) intramuscular once in three months.
There are other preparations available which have been used over the period of years but such preparations may not be used because of the side effects.
Subdermal Pellets
These pellets dissolve slowly over a period of approximately three to four months. This provides a normal and very stable serum testosterone level.
The implant procedure consists of a small incision through which a trocar and cannula are inserted. The pellets are inserted through the cannula, and then the cannula is withdrawn.

Alternative approaches towards managing Andropuase.

1. So far a detailed description of lack of Testosterone causing Andropause and the replacement of Testosterone as treatment has been given, with a simple formula that there is a deficiency of Testosterone that needs replacement. This is not as simple as it seems. It has been observed that many patients who have Andropause like symptoms do not improve with testosterone replacement. In such cases Human Growth Hormone, DHEA, Pregnenolone, Melatonin and deficiency of other hormones need to be assessed and if deficient may need replacement.
2. Nutritional Supports
   Andropause is a syndrome of degenerative disease characterized by age related diseases such as cardiovascular dysfunction, cancer and arthritis. One of the primary mechanism of Andropause may be oxidative stress from free radicals. Through improper diet, external pollutants, stress of life, our body’s cells are continually bombarded by millions of free radicals each day. The degree and the amount of free radicals present in the body are related directly to the speed of the aging process.
   Therefore, one of the primary goals of preventing Andropause may be retarding the proliferation of free radicals through intake of food rich in anti-oxidants and antioxidant supplements.
   While there is no established laboratory reference for the ideal intake level of antioxidants for anti-aging, many in the forefront of anti-Andropause research are advocating much higher levels of intake than the Recommended Dietary Allowance.
3. Proper Exercise
   Exercise, in addition to its cardiovascular benefits, also increases the level of hormones in the body, which include growth hormone, Testosterone, DHEA and pregnenolone. Performing strength-training exercise is a key component because of the above-mentioned effects.

Following an anti-aging exercise program incorporating flexibility training, cardiovascular training, and strength training program in a balanced fashion is the key to preventing Andropause. It is strongly advised that none of the three components should be ignored.