For men with testosterone deficiency, testosterone supplementation may be a good way to raise their testosterone levels to get them into the normal range. Bringing low testosterone levels into the normal range can have positive benefits such as increased sex drive, increased muscle mass, denser bones, and improved mood. Nevertheless, testosterone therapy is not recommended for men who already have normal testosterone levels, and it may even cause severe side effects.

Some individuals mistakenly believe that taking testosterone supplements even when one has normal testosterone levels can have the same positive effects as taking them when experiencing testosterone deficiency. In reality, this practice can permanently alter a man’s natural hormone production and make his body dependent on supplements for testosterone.

The side effects of taking testosterone supplements for men who have normal testosterone levels can be mild or severe. Some of the mild side effects include:

• Increased acne
• Hair loss
• Shrinking of the testicles
• Decreased sperm count
• Breast growth
• Decreased sex drive

Testosterone therapy under these conditions can also lead to more serious health issues such as:

• High blood pressure
• Increased risk of heart disease due to a higher red blood cell count
• Liver damage
• Infertility
• Enlarged prostate
• Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels

Given the potential for harmful side effects, testosterone supplementation is generally not recommended for men who already have normal testosterone levels. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly are healthier options for men who wish to increase muscle mass, boost energy, improve their mood, and increase their libido.

Most importantly, it is always a good idea to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking any supplement or using any therapy with a health care provider before doing so.

References:

• Almaiman, A.A. (2018). Effect of testosterone boosters on body functions: Case report. International journal of health sciences, 12(2), 86.
  
  
• Kent, A. (2009). Testosterone and Sexual Desire. Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2(1), 65.
  
  
• Piedmont Healthcare. (n.d.). Supplemental testosterone: Healthy or not? Retrieved January 9, 2023, from https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/supplemental-testosterone-healthy-or-not
  
  
• Stojkovski, K., & Boyer, D. (2023, January 7). What Happens When You Take Testosterone Supplements? https://www.centredaily.com/health-wellness/article261266252.html