Expert: Nigel Simmons - 3/11/2007

Question
Hello. I recently had a physical and my blood work showed that I have a low testosterone level of 180. My physician put me on a prescription of Androgel using one 25 mg. gel pouch a day. I have been doing this for 10 days now and cannot tell any difference at all. My chief complaint had been fatigue, lack of concentration, loss of muscle mass, etc. My question is what is the best treatment for low testosterone levels? What is the most economical? Of the gels which is superior, Androgel or Testim. I go back to my doctor in four days for follow-up blood work and would like to have some more information I can discuss with him. Thanks.

Answer
Paul

Information on both products can be found on their respective websites:

www.androgel.com
www.testim.com

Both have sections for patients and clinicians, but there is no reason why you should not look at both, just that the medical terminology may need some further research.

I'm afraid I have no direct experience of supplying either product, Androgel is not available in the UK and Testim only launched in the last few years after I gave up day to day practice.

From the information you give, your blood levels do appear low and the symptoms you describe fit with low testosterone levels. Although the products claim almost immediate return to normal levels, this will depend on the individual's starting point and how well the drug is absorbed through their skin (obese people will have more fat under the skin which will impare passage into the blood).

Hopefully the repeat blood tests will show some increase in testosterone levels, and you can discuss with your doctor whether to continue at the same dose and continue to bring the levels up more steadily, or consider using a higher strength for a short period of time to give more of a boost. Either way regular monitoring is advisible, so the real determining factor may be how much you are prepared / able to pay for the treatment. As pricing will vary from country to country I have no idea whether there cost per mg is the same or if there is an economy on the larger doses. Your pharmacist will be able to advise on local costs.

I hope this helps.