Novel Therapy for Male Hypogonadism

Curr Urol Rep. 2018 Jun 9;19(8):63. doi: 10.1007/s11934-018-0816-x.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Hypogonadism and the treatment of low testosterone is increasingly a subject of medical inquiry and controversy. The few treatments that are FDA-approved such as testosterone topicals, injections, and pellets create significant demand from patients for treatments with more convenient means of administration, fewer adverse effects, and the ability to maintain male fertility. Off-label drugs are in abundant use for low testosterone, including selective estrogen receptor modulators, gonadotropins, and aromatase inhibitors.

Recent findings: In this review, we summarize the evidence in support of commonly used treatments for male hypogonadism, as well as discuss recent updates in the development of novel therapeutics. New therapies include nasal testosterone, new oral testosterone formulations, anabolic-androgenic steroids, and selective androgen receptor modulators.

Keywords: Clomiphene; Hypogonadism; SARM; Testosterone; Testosterone replacement therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intranasal
  • Administration, Oral
  • Aromatase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Drug Discovery
  • Gonadotropins / therapeutic use
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy
  • Humans
  • Hypogonadism / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators / therapeutic use
  • Testosterone / administration & dosage
  • Testosterone / therapeutic use*
  • Testosterone Congeners / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Aromatase Inhibitors
  • Gonadotropins
  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators
  • Testosterone Congeners
  • Testosterone