Risks of Testosterone-Replacement Therapy and Recommendations for Monitoring

Although some reports suggest that testosterone-replacement therapy may provide benefits for aging men, considerable controversy remains regarding indications for its use. Neither large-scale nor long-term studies have been initiated, in part because of theoretical concern regarding the risks associated with testosterone therapy, especially the possible stimulation of prostate cancer. This article discusses what is known (and not known) about the risks of testosterone-replacement therapy and provides recommendations for monitoring men who are receiving testosterone.