From the Guidelines
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may temporarily lower testosterone levels in men, and reducing or eliminating cannabis use is advisable for those concerned about testosterone levels. The relationship between THC and testosterone appears to be dose-dependent, with heavier, long-term use potentially causing more significant suppression 1. THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating hormone production, including testosterone, and can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis that controls testosterone secretion.
Key Points to Consider
- Regular cannabis use may lower testosterone levels in men, though the effects are typically modest and reversible upon cessation 1.
- The effects on testosterone typically normalize within days to weeks after stopping cannabis use.
- Other factors like sleep quality, exercise, diet, and stress management have more substantial impacts on testosterone levels than occasional cannabis use.
- If experiencing symptoms of low testosterone (fatigue, reduced libido, mood changes), it's worth discussing with a healthcare provider who can measure hormone levels and recommend appropriate interventions.
Clinical Implications
The potential impact of THC on testosterone levels is an important consideration for men using cannabis, particularly those with concerns about hormone levels or fertility. While the evidence is limited, reducing or eliminating cannabis use is a prudent approach for those concerned about testosterone levels. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential effects of THC on testosterone and discuss this with patients as part of a comprehensive approach to managing hormone levels and overall health.
From the Research
THC and Testosterone: An Overview
- The relationship between THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and testosterone is complex, with several studies investigating the effects of cannabinoids on the endocrine system 2, 3, 4.
- Cannabinoids, including THC, interact with the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, which are localized in various organs, including the endocrine glands 3.
- The endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including food intake, energy homeostasis, and endocrine function 3, 4.
Effects of THC on Testosterone
- Studies have shown that THC can affect testosterone levels, with some reports suggesting a decrease in testosterone levels after cannabis use 4.
- The exact mechanisms by which THC affects testosterone are not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the interaction between the endocannabinoid system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis 2, 4.
- Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a common treatment for hypogonadism, but the effects of THC on TRT are not well studied 5, 6.
Clinical Implications
- The use of cannabis and cannabinoids, including THC, may have implications for endocrine function, particularly in individuals with hypogonadism or other endocrine disorders 3, 4.
- Further studies are needed to fully understand the effects of THC on testosterone and the endocrine system, as well as the potential interactions between THC and TRT 5, 6.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential effects of THC on endocrine function and monitor patients accordingly 6.