The New Treatment for Depression and Anxiety in Men: Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Authors

Russell Mobley, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Men's Health

Advisor

Elyse Watkins, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Abstract

Depression and anxiety are two of the most common diagnosis made in modern medicine today. The mainstay of treatment for depression and anxiety has been antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Workup for depression or anxiety should include a complete physical and laboratory work up to rule out any potential underlying physiological causes of depression. Low testosterone or hypogonadism could be the underlying cause for depression in many male patients, it is estimated that 25% of the male population is assumed to have low testosterone. ¹ Given the robust psychological response of testosterone supplementation and the other potential physiological benefits, it is highly recommended that medical providers include screening for hormonal causes of depression in men (including young men) presenting with new-onset depression or anxiety, as well as depression or anxiety resistant to prior treatment. The purpose of this review article is for medical providers to become aware of the symptoms and diagnosis of low testosterone. Most importantly, to understand the connection between depression and anxiety in hypogonadism and how the treatment with testosterone can help their male patient population with depression and anxiety.

Recommended Citation

Mobley R. The New Treatment for Depression and Anxiety in Men: Testosterone Replacement Therapy. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 3(2).