Testosterone Therapy Effect on Glycemic Control in Testosterone Deficient Males

Authors

Eric M. Elliot, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Internal Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Nancy Reid, MHA, DHSc, PA-C

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction

Testosterone deficiency (TD) is common in males with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).^1-6 Medical providers all too often overlook the connection between insulin resistance and males diagnosed with both T2DM and TD. This analysis was performed to determine if the blood glucose levels of a male with T2DM and TD are affected when taking testosterone therapy (TTh).

Methods

This literature review searched for and reviewed published peer-reviewed research on the topic of TTh and the effect on T2DM. Over 316 articles were found in online databases: Pub Med, Medline, and Cochran Library. The key words used to search were: ‘type 2 diabetes mellitus’, ‘diabetes’, ‘glycemic control’, ‘insulin sensitivity’, ‘male’, ‘testosterone therapy’, ‘testosterone replacement’, ‘testosterone deficiency’ and ‘hypogonadism’. The main sources for the literature review were quantitative research articles. The articles demonstrated rigor, validity, and reliability because they utilized appropriate statistical analysis methods with high confidence intervals. After reviewing the articles, 18 were kept and further evaluated due to relevance.

Results

The effects of TTh on glycemic control showed decreased insulin resistance and improved glycemic control.^8-16 Literature demonstrated a reduction insulin resistance, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) after increasing testosterone in T2DM males with TD.^8-16 Testosterone therapy was also linked to improving lipoprotein, total and LDL-cholesterol, central obesity, sexual health, and body composition.^2-6

Conclusion

Testosterone therapy may become another tool for medical providers to manage males with diabetes. A review of current research evidence supports the association between males with TD and T2DM. The findings in current literature support TTh may be a treatment allowing earlier control over diabetes and may decrease or prevent diabetic complications. This would allow for synchronous and complimentary management between diabetes and TD.

Recommended Citation

Elliot EM. Testosterone Therapy Effect on Glycemic Control in Testosterone Deficient Males. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2019; 1(3).