Study Finds Risk of Heart Attack Doubles for Men Taking Testosterone

In the past few years, testosterone therapy has become increasingly popular – touted by both medical professionals and men with waning libidos or energy loss. According to a new study published in PLOS One, however, testosterone therapy was found to double the risk of heart attack in men over the age of 65. In younger men with a history of heart disease, the risk of heart attack nearly tripled.

Researchers studying more than 55,000 men found that men over the age of 65 taking testosterone had double the risk of heart attack compared to men who did not take the drug. The study – which can be viewed here – was inspired by a smaller 2010 study that suggested an association between heart attacks and older men on testosterone replacement therapy. Adding to the elevated risks among older men, researchers also found that risks of heart attack in younger men with known heart disease nearly tripled.

When numbers were adjusted to account for various health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking, researchers noted the following:

• Men who didn't use testosterone had a heart attack risk of 5 per 1,000 men.
• Men over age 65, and men under 64 with known heart disease, who did use testosterone had an absolute heart attack risk of 10 per 1,000 patient hours.

Many medical experts have stated that the risks posed by testosterone therapy are significant – equivalent to smoking one or two packs a day or having very high cholesterol. While testosterone therapy is prescribed for conditions such as hypogonadism – which causes low testosterone – it is often used by men who experience fatigue or sexual dysfunction. These two conditions are often the focus of testosterone drug manufacturers' marketing campaigns.

Despite these alarming findings, some medical experts are questioning whether they are truly accurate and that it may be possible that men in this study experienced heart attacks for some other underlying reason. Testosterone manufacturers have sidestepped the issue by pointing out the benefits of testosterone therapy.

Many, still, are voicing opinions that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) needs to more closely regulate testosterone companies and their marketing practices, and more closely examine products' heart risks. As some attest, prescribing testosterone to thousands of men who may not necessarily need it is a concerning experiment.

Injured after using testosterone? Call 800-773-0849

California defective drug attorneys from The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP represent individuals and families who have suffered damages after using defective drugs and prescription medications. If you or your loved one has experienced adverse effects after testosterone therapy – including heart disease or heart attacks – allow a member of our legal team to review your case and inform you of your legal rights.

For more information, call 800-773-0849.