Lipoprotein(A) & Testosterone Therapy

Lipoproteins are protein and fat molecules that carry cholesterol throughout the body. There are two types of lipoproteins: low-density (LDL) and high-density (HDL). LDL is the primary cholesterol carrier, while HDL focuses on carrying cholesterol away from the heart and arteries. Lipoprotein-A, or Lp(a), is a genetic variation of LDL, and its presence increases the risk for heart disease. Lowering LDL and Lp(a) is essential for getting high cholesterol under control. Testosterone therapy, however, actually increases LDL and Lp(a), so if you already have high cholesterol, you may not be a good candidate for it.

Testosterone Therapy and Cholesterol

• Testosterone therapy is recommended for men and women who are experiencing a testosterone deficiency, or hypogonadism. In adult men, a testosterone deficiency causes erectile dysfunction, infertility, a decrease in muscle and bone mass, decrease in hair and facial hair growth, and the development of breast tissue. In adult women, a testosterone deficiency can cause decreased libido, hot flashes, difficulty concentrating and fatigue.
  Testosterone can be taken orally or administered through an injection, a patch or a topical gel. But testosterone therapy doesn't come without risks. Common side effects include acne, skin reactions, fluid retention and breast enlargement. Testosterone also has the potential to limit sperm production, cause testicle shrinkage, encourage the growth of noncancerous cells in the prostate, and even stimulate the growth of breast or prostate cancers.
  Testosterone therapy also affects cholesterol levels. Testosterone decreases HDL, the good cholesterol, while increasing LDL, the bad cholesterol. Lp(a) is also at risk for increasing as a result of taking testosterone.

Precautions

• If you have high cholesterol, do not start testosterone therapy unless your physician specifically recommends that you do so. Speak to your physician about your high cholesterol and concerns about a testosterone deficiency. Together, you can evaluate your medical history and any current medical conditions and determine a proper course of treatment.