Using a testosterone gel may reduce insulin resistance in men with type 2 diabetes, according to a study published in the Diabetes Care journal.
Researchers at Barnsley Hospital in the United Kingdom followed a year of 220 middle-aged and older men with low testosterone levels who were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Some of them used the testosterone gel once a day, while others used a placebo.
Compared to the control group, men using testosterone gel decreased insulin resistance by 16%, cholesterol levels also decreased, and sexual function improved to some extent. However, there was no difference in blood sugar levels.
Testosterone gel is currently used to treat sexual problems in men with low levels of this hormone. However, there is no expert consent regarding the threshold from which patients should be prescribed this type of treatment.
Previous studies have found that for older men, testosterone treatments can increase the risk of heart disease.
Contrary to the beliefs of many people, we need much less testosterone for our sexual function to be normal. Obesity has a much greater influence on this aspect – comments Dr. Michael Marberger from the University of Vienna (PAP).