Some research shows that lower testosterone levels may increase cardiovascular risk. But other research isn’t clear whether testosterone therapy directly decreases cholesterol or blood pressure.
Doctors may prescribe testosterone therapy for various medical conditions, though it isn’t clear whether testosterone therapy links directly to lower cholesterol or blood pressure.
Some studies suggest that testosterone therapy could have a positive effect on cholesterol levels, while other studies suggest no effect.
HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol), LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), and other fats (like triglycerides) travel from your bloodstream to your liver.
Once LDL cholesterol is in the liver, this organ can filter LDL out of the body. However, a low HDL level can be a risk factor for heart disease, while a high HDL level has a protective effect.
Testosterone therapy may affect those cholesterol levels, including higher HDL cholesterol levels. But a
Why testosterone therapy?
Doctors usually give testosterone therapy for one of two reasons.
- One reason is to treat a condition called hypogonadism, when your body doesn’t make enough testosterone. Testosterone is an important hormone. It plays a key role in developing and maintaining male physical traits.
- Testosterone levels usually start to decline gradually in males above 40 years old, and one option is testosterone therapy to make up for lost muscle mass and sex drive that can result from this decrease in testosterone.
One study from 2021 showed that low testosterone levels can raise cardiovascular risk, and testosterone replacement therapy, which supplements those levels, can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.
But it’s not clear what effects testosterone therapy has on blood pressure, with a 2024 study showing a decrease in blood pressure, while research used in
Researchers have yet to provide a definitive answer about testosterone and cholesterol. It’s important to understand that there may be a connection. If you decide to use testosterone therapy, make sure you consider all of the risks and benefits.
Follow your doctor’s advice about a heart-healthy lifestyle, and take any prescribed medications. These can help manage your cholesterol, blood pressure, and other manageable risk factors.
More research is necessary on the effects of taking testosterone supplements on cholesterol. Many experts often suggest living a lifestyle that leads to healthy cholesterol levels, but it may be vital while taking testosterone.