MEN'S HEALTH 

ANDROPAUSE- "The Unspeakable Passage" What is Andropause? Simply stated, Andropause is the male equivalent of menopause. Some men actually go through a sudden change in testosterone levels. These are similar to the hormonal changes experienced by women during menopause. Most men, however, have a more subtle hormonal decline.

Medical doctors started to realize that in healthy male's bioavailable testosterone declines by approximately 1% per year between the ages of 40 and 70. A more pronounced decline has been observed in non-healthy groups, especially in high cardiovascular risk groups.

This gradual decline in testosterone levels, over a period of years, is known as Male menopause, or Andropause or "Grumpy Old Men Syndrome".

Less free testosterone results in physiologic and psychological changes including: depression, impotence, decreased libido (sex drive), muscular weakness, lethargy and loss of lean body and bone mass. Symptoms which men and women experience during the time of menopause are more similar than they are different. Symptoms are often attributed to other problems, denied by the patient, and unrecognized by the physician.

Testosterone is a Success Hormone 

Winning= High Testosterone 

Losing= Low Testosterone 

Testosterone levels decrease for a variety of reasons:

Testosterone-producing Leyding cells begin to die off as the man ages Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHGB) increase with age-more bound hormones, less free ones. More Estradiol, less Testosterone produced. When an imbalance occurs the level of hormones can be accurately measured either through serum,saliva or urine testing. At this time a compounding pharmacists at Hooper's Pharmacy, in consultation with your physician, can also provide clinical symptoms assessment and appropriate supplementation can begin following obtaining a prescription from your medical doctor. There are several efficient ways to administer testosterone and several inefficient (and possibly unhealthy ways). The oral route is an inefficient way of dosing because of the High first pass effect, which largely converts testosterone to inactive metabolites. Most researchers and experienced clinicians do not dose testosterone orally. On the other hand, sublingual or buccal and transdermal dosing to meet unique needs, is available through Hooper's Pharmacy's compounding pharmacists. In summary, andropause is a common progression in the aging process, while men are affected to varying degrees and at different ages, virtually all experience effects of hormonal imbalance. By taking positive steps to restore a normal balance, many men can regain vitality and zest for life and enjoy their mature years fully and healthy.  For more information on these or any of our other services, please call your local Hooper's  Pharmacy and Vitamin Shop or CLICK HERE Important note: Hooper's Pharmacy & Vitamin Shop in no way seeks to diagnose or treat illness. All material is provided for information only and should not be construed as medical advice or instruction. Individuals should always seek the advice of an appropriate health professional.

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