Male hypogonadism: therapeutic choices and pharmacological management

Minerva Endocrinol. 2020 Sep;45(3):189-203. doi: 10.23736/S0391-1977.20.03195-8.

Abstract

Male hypogonadism, defined as an inadequate testosterone production, recognizes a testicular (primary hypogonadism) or a hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction (central hypogonadism), although combined forms can also occur. Moreover, it has been known that intensive exercise training might be a cause of functional hypogonadism. Many therapeutic choices are currently available, depending on the timing of hypogonadism onset and fertility issue. The aim of this review was to comprehensively supply therapeutic options and schemes currently available for male hypogonadism, including pharmacological management of primary and central forms. Evidence on testosterone formulations, human chorionic gonadotropin, selective estrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors will be provided.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hypogonadism / complications
  • Hypogonadism / drug therapy*
  • Infertility, Male / drug therapy
  • Infertility, Male / etiology
  • Male
  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators / therapeutic use
  • Testosterone / deficiency
  • Testosterone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators
  • Testosterone