PHARMACOKINETIC COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT PHARMACEUTICAL FORMS OF TESTOSTERONE IN MEN

Abstract

Testosterone is a hormone belonging to the class of androgens (male sex hormones). Found in greater concentration in men, its functions are basically associated with the development of masculinizing characteristics, such as increased muscle mass and regulation of sexual functions. Androgen deficiency, or hypogonadism, is a clinical syndrome characterized by low testosterone levels. This comorbidity is associated with several pathologies, such as erectile dysfunction, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases and insulin resistance. The most common symptoms of hypogonadism are loss of lean body mass, bone degeneration, increased body fat, decreased libido, physical disability and excessive fatigue. Testosterone replacement therapy is one of the main forms of treatment for male hypogonadism. It aims at relieving symptoms, restoring normal testosterone levels, improving quality of life and reducing mortality, which is high when compared to the general population. The observed benefits, such as increased libido and energy level, beneficial effects on bone density, strength and muscles, as well as cardioprotective effects, are very well documented in the literature. However, it is important to emphasize that the different existing pharmaceutical forms of testosterone are directly linked to its pharmacokinetics. Thus, its understanding is of great relevance in hormone replacement therapy in men and is the subject explored in this article.