Testosterone and depression in men

Revital Amiaz*, Stuart N. Seidman

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of the review is to update the current literature regarding the role, if any, that testosterone plays in depressive illness. We have considered the influences on depression of endogenous testosterone, that is, hypogonadism and depression; and exogenous testosterone, that is, as a potential antidepressant. RECENT FINDINGS: Studies do not support a consistent relationship between testosterone level and mood. There may be vulnerable subpopulations in whom hypogonadism contributes to depression; and chronic depressive illness may lead to hypogonadism in some men. Results from multiple randomized, controlled clinical trials are conflicting. Most do not support testosterone as a broadly effective antidepressant, but it may be effective in carefully selected populations, such as hypogonadal men, antidepressant-resistant men, men with early onset depression, and/or HIV-infected men. SUMMARY: There is little support for a pervasive influence of testosterone on mood.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)278-283
Number of pages6
JournalCurrent Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity
Volume15
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Andropause
  • Antidepressant
  • Depression
  • Testosterone

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