Androgens DHEA And Testosterone

An informative article on: Androgens DHEA And Testosterone.

Androgen, also known as androgenic hormones or testoids, is the term used for any synthetic or natural steroid hormone that helps to control male characteristics, such as the male sex organs. The most well-known androgen is testosterone. Testosterone is a steroid hormone, primarily secreted in the testes of males and ovaries of females, while small amounts are secreted from the adrenal glands. DHEA (Dehydrospiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal cortex from cholesterol and is the primary precursor of natural estrogens.

Androgen’s Early Stages

Androgens, primarily testosterone, have been shown to be crucial for the function and structure of several organs, including genital tissues and the prostate. During development, the gonads are capable of becoming either testes or ovaries and are normally developed by 12 weeks gestation. During puberty, germ cells that started forming at about 6 weeks gestation start to become sperm in males.

Androgen’s Effect on Muscle Mass and the Brain

Males normally have more muscle mass than females, and androgens promote the enlargement of the skeletal muscle tissue. They also influence behavior since some neurons are very sensitive to steroid hormones and can effect aggression and libido. These effects can be very beneficial or detrimental to human behavior, depending on their levels.

Testosterone in Males

Testosterone is required at puberty for penile and genital development. A low amount stimulates growth and the accumulation of tissue in the penis, leading to erectile dysfunction. It has also been proven to be responsible for the synthesis of the enzyme facilitating the release of the crucial neurotransmitter of blood vessel relaxation (nitric oxide synthase), which is involved in erection as well as increasing blood flow to the heart and brain.

DHEAS Testing

DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate) is a test used to evaluate adrenal function and distinguish between androgen-secretion caused by the adrenal glands and those that come from the testes or ovaries. Although DHEA levels are not routinely tested, symptoms such as infertility, severe acne, increased muscularity and decreased breast size in females, or the development of pubic hair, a deep voice, muscularity and an enlarged penis well before normal puberty in males.

Andogen and Testosterone Therapies

Androgen therapy can be beneficial for men with erectile dysfunction (ED), low desire (HSDD), problems with orgasm, diabetes, venous leak, and those treated for cancer. Treatment may include treatment with testosterone for three months or more. Treatment may include testosterone gels, intramuscular injections, and subcutaneous testosterone pellets.

Contraindications and Side Effects of Therapy

Administration of testosterone is contraindicative in men with a history of prostate cancer and a blood test must be done before initiating treatment. Many doctors will also request a hematocrit, a liver function test, and a cholesterol tests before starting androgen therapy, as well as annually while on androgen therapy. Side effects may include hair loss on the scalp, acne, testicular atrophy, and hair growth on the face. Androgens, DHEA and testosterone therapy will help to regulate the endocrine system in both men and women, so contact your doctor if you exhibit any of these symptoms. Daily, long-term testosterone therapy is now commonplace for aging men to increase their sex drive and assist in maintaining overall health. Side effects from these drug therapies are relatively mild.