From the Research
Relationship Between Testosterone Supplements and Hypertension
The relationship between testosterone supplements and hypertension (HTN) is complex and has been studied in various research papers.
- Testosterone supplements may have differential effects on men depending on age, cardiovascular and metabolic status, and dose and whether given long-term or short-term 1.
- Lower total testosterone could be a promising risk marker for prevalent hypertension, and both low and high levels of testosterone are associated with greater cardiovascular risk 2.
- There is an inverse association between endogenous testosterone and blood pressure, and low plasma testosterone is associated with increased risk of major cardiovascular events in middle-aged hypertensive men 3.
Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Blood Pressure
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has been shown to have varying effects on blood pressure in hypogonadal men.
- TRT with testosterone undecanoate (TU) was associated with significant reductions in systolic, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure, regardless of antihypertensive therapy 4.
- The effects of TRT on blood pressure may be influenced by factors such as baseline blood pressure, age, and changes in waist circumference and hematocrit 4.
- The relationship between testosterone and cardiovascular disease is not fully understood, and more research is needed to determine the effects of TRT on cardiovascular risk 5.
Key Findings
- Testosterone supplements may increase mean arterial pressure (MAP) in young male spontaneously hypertensive rats, but decrease MAP in old male spontaneously hypertensive rats 1.
- Total testosterone, free testosterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin are inversely associated with the prevalence of hypertension 2.
- Testosterone is independently and inversely associated with central pulse pressure, wave reflections, and left ventricular mass in hypertensive men 3.
- TRT with TU may lower blood pressure in hypogonadal men, with greater reductions in men with higher baseline blood pressure 4.