Have you been feeling a little down in the dumps and “blue” lately? If you’re a male, you may want to get your testosterone level checked. Testosterone deficiency is surprisingly common, particularly in men over the age of 55 when the incidence is as high as a third of all men. According to a study, one of the effects of low testosterone levels in men is depression
Effects of Low Testosterone in Men – A Study
In this double blind study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, it was shown that men who had low testosterone levels were more likely to be diagnosed with clinical depression. The men chosen for this study were forty-five years and over who had no previous diagnosis of depression. Testosterone levels were considered to be low if they were less than 200 nanograms per deciliter.
Effects of Low Testosterone in Men – Why Is There a Higher Risk of Depression?
Why is depression one of the effects of low testosterone in men? Although the mechanism isn’t completely understood, it’s thought that testosterone may alter the levels of certain brain neurotransmitters associated with mood, thereby increasing the risk of depression.
Does Giving Supplemental Testosterone for Depression Work?
A small study conducted in 2008 showed that over thirty percent of clinically depressed men with low testosterone levels experienced significant elevation in their mood and reduction in symptoms of depression when they were given supplemental testosterone gel. It’s unclear why all of the men didn’t respond to the treatment. Supplemental testosterone seems to have an effect on depressive symptoms, although it may not work for everyone. Interestingly, many years ago testosterone was frequently prescribed to treat depression in older men. With the advent of modern anti-depressants this practice fell out of vogue. It may turn out that this antiquated practice had benefits after all.
Should Testosterone Be Used to Treat Depression?
A randomized clinical trial is still needed to show a cause and effect relationship and it would be premature to prescribe testosterone to all men with depression and borderline low testosterone levels. One reason is that testosterone can have health consequences of its own and could potentially increase the risk of prostate cancer, a cancer that’s already all too common in men. Fortunately, the most recent studies are calling into question whether testosterone replacement actually does increase the risk of prostate cancer.
The bottom line?
If you’re a male in your middle years or older and you’re experiencing symptoms of depression it may be prudent to have your testosterone level checked by your doctor. If your levels are significantly low your doctor may want to supplement you which could have the additional benefit of helping your depressive symptoms. Many men with low testosterone levels experience more energy when they’re given supplementation. As always, discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
Reference:
- Achives General Psychiatry. February 2004; 61: 162-7
- American Family Physician. Volume 70, Number 9. November 1, 2004
