Medications That Lower Testosterone

Medications That Lower Testosterone. Is it true that there are some medications that lower testosterone? Research suggests yes, it is true, which can be kind of a distressing thought.

Your body needs optimal hormone levels to function at its best. Medication, for the most part, is designed to help your body and mind function at its best.

Unfortunately, some medications have side effects that affect hormone levels. This article will help provide you with a starting point for discovering more about medications that lower testosterone.

If you suspect your testosterone levels are low, and you are on any of the below listed medications, the next step is to make an appointment with your doctor before jumping to conclusions.

During this discussion you can also ask about the possible treatment options available for bringing your testosterone levels back up.

Without any further delay, here is some more information about the types of prescription medications that lower testosterone.

Types of Prescription Medications That Lower Testosterone

Spironolactone
This ingredient is found in prescription medicine used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems. According to a study, Spironolactone inhibits testosterone synthesis via blocking the cytochrome P450 in leydig cells. It is used for women with polycystic ovary syndrome and high testosterone levels that cause excessive hair growth and acne.

Asthma Inhalers
The primary active ingredient in asthma inhalers is corticosteroids, which are similar to cortisol. Cortisol is a known enemy of testosterone, having been proven to cause significant drops in testosterone production.

Another study found that men with asthma more often than not had lower testosterone than men without asthma. This could potentially be due to the inhalers.

Antidepressants
As the name suggests, antidepressants are used to treat depression. However, while having a positive effect on brain chemistry they can have an unwanted effect on hormone levels.

Antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are known to decrease testosterone levels leading to other side effects such as low sex drive and low mood.

Antihistamines
This type of medication is mainly used to treat allergies — and just as there are many types of allergies in the world there are many types of antihistamines.

One common trait shared by all of them is that they’re touted as being ‘side effect free.’ However, in practice antihistamines have been proven to lower testosterone levels which can leave one feeling fatigued. In addition to lowering testosterone levels, the study also shows that antihistamines can even increase estrogen levels.

Conclusion

This is by no means a comprehensive list of medications that lower testosterone, but it is a list of some of the most commonly prescribed medicines.

In addition, if you are on any of these medications I’m by no means suggesting you stop taking them. If you require more information, or would like to set up a consultation regarding our hormone replacement therapy services, please use the contact form on the left.