Low Testosterone Therapy

Low testosterone is a condition characterized by underproduction of the key male hormone for growth and physical maturation. Called male hypogonadism, the condition can occur at any age, and its potential effects range from abnormal genital development in newborns to erectile dysfunction, infertility and osteoporosis in adults. Available therapies for the condition vary with age and individual circumstances.

Symptoms in Adults and Children

• According to the Mayo Clinic, low testosterone levels in adults can also cause decreases in muscle mass, fatigue, concentration difficulties, decreases in the growth of body and facial hair, hot flashes and abnormal development of breast tissue. If your pubescent child suffers from low testosterone, his symptoms may include impaired development of his penis and testicles, lack of hair growth, lowered muscle mass development and a lack of natural deepening of his voice. If your child shows any of these signs, see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy

• Hypogonadism may be the result of abnormalities in either the testicles or in the hypothalamus, or pituitary glands, which signal the testicles to produce testosterone. If testicle abnormalities are present, treatment options include testosterone replacement therapy. In this technique, artificial sources of testosterone are introduced into the body to replace missing natural output.

  Several methods are available to deliver the required dosage of testosterone. Testosterone injections into the muscles are typically given once every two weeks. They may be administered by a doctor or nurse, or you can learn how to inject yourself at home. Be aware that symptoms may return temporarily between injections. Testosterone gels such as Testim or AndroGel are usually rubbed into the shoulders, upper arms or abdomen. Once applied, the gel will absorb into the skin as it dries. If you use this form of treatment, avoid showering or bathing for a few hours after each application to make sure it is properly absorbed. You will also need to avoid exposing any female or child to this type of testosterone.

  Testosterone patches such as Androderm are typically applied to the thighs, upper arms, back or abdomen at bedtime. To avoid irritating the skin, the location of a patch is usually rotated regularly between these four locations. Testosterone may also be delivered to your mouth by a special chewing gum-like substance that is held in a natural pocket above your front teeth.

Gonadotropins

• If your hypogonadism is the result of pituitary or hypothalamus problems, you will likely receive injections of hormones called gonadotropins, which will help stimulate your testosterone and sperm production. In some cases, they may also relieve the effects of infertility. Testosterone replacement can also be used in these situations.

Treating Children

• Your child's doctor will typically treat hypogonadism with low-dose testosterone injections or gonadotropins. If testosterone is used, the given dosage may increase over time if adverse side effects do not occur. See your child's doctor for a more thorough explanation of age-appropriate hypogonadism treatments.