Late-onset Hypogonadism Treatment Overview

When to see a healthcare provider

If you have symptoms of late-onset hypogonadism—you’re an older male and have low libido and reduced muscle mass and energy—you can see a healthcare provider at any point. It is generally recommended that you try to lose weight if you’re overweight, but if that doesn’t help within about two months, then see a provider.

Getting diagnosed

Late-onset hypogonadism is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms and health history. But your provider will also order a blood test to check your gonadotropin and testosterone levels.

What to expect from your visit

• Your healthcare provider may recommend that you lose weight if you’re overweight and that you exercise regularly—both aerobic and strength-training.
• They will check to make sure any medications you are taking are not contributing to the problem.
• If these steps don’t help, they may bring up taking testosterone, though this has some risks that they will discuss with you. For example, testosterone should not be taken by younger men who want to keep their fertility. There are other medications that stimulate the production of testosterone, like human chorionic gonadotropin and clomiphene citrate.

Prescription medications for LOH

• Testosterone—it comes in many forms (gels, injection, or patch).
• Human chorionic gonadotropin (bHCG)—it is an injection that stimulates the production of testosterone. It’s usually prescribed to men who want to keep their fertility.
• Clomiphene citrate—it is a pill that stimulates the production of testosterone. It’s usually prescribed to men who want to keep their fertility.

Types of providers who treat late-onset hypogonadism

• Your primary care provider can evaluate and diagnose LOH.
• A specialist like an endocrinologist or urologist may be recommended if you need hormone therapy.

Managing LOH at home

The best way to reduce symptoms of late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) is by exercising and losing weight. Both have been shown to increase testosterone levels in overweight or obese men.

• Exercise regularly, at least five times a week. Do both cardio exercise and strength training.
• If you are overweight, changing your eating habits can help you lose weight.
• Get adequate sleep.
• Try to reduce stress.

OTC medications

• Many supplements are advertised as a non-prescription way to improve LOH or low testosterone. But none of these supplements are FDA approved, and there is little evidence that they work.