Hormone Testing and Safety for Men on Medication - Urology

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Hello Dr.
Hsu: I have two final questions, thank you very much.
I am currently taking finasteride.
Will this affect the accuracy of my male hormone tests at the hospital? Also, there are male hormone medications that do not carry a risk of cancer, but I assume they are likely to be more expensive, right?

Ke lian de nan zi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/07/26

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Dear Sir:
1.
It is possible to test male hormones without discontinuing medication.

2.
Currently, there are a few FDA-approved supplements that are not carcinogenic.
You may inquire about them.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.

Sincerely,
Director Hsu Wei-Kai, Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2012/07/26

More Info


When it comes to hormone testing and the safety of medications, particularly for men who are currently on medication like Finasteride (commonly known as "波斯卡" or "Proscar"), there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

First, regarding the question of whether taking Finasteride will affect the results of male hormone testing, the answer is generally no. Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern baldness by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While it does alter the levels of DHT in the body, it does not significantly interfere with the measurement of total testosterone levels. Therefore, you can undergo hormone testing without needing to stop your medication, and the results should be reliable.

However, it is essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, as they can provide specific guidance tailored to your situation. Hormone levels can fluctuate due to various factors, including time of day, stress, and overall health, so it’s crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation.

Now, regarding the availability of non-carcinogenic male hormone supplements, there are indeed options available that have been approved by the FDA. These typically include testosterone replacement therapies that are designed to be safe and effective for men with low testosterone levels. However, these treatments can be expensive, and the cost can vary significantly based on the type of therapy, the dosage, and your insurance coverage.

It's also important to note that while testosterone therapy can be beneficial for men with clinically low testosterone levels, it is not without risks. Potential side effects include an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, sleep apnea, and changes in mood or behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough discussion with an endocrinologist or a urologist who specializes in hormone therapy. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks and determine the most appropriate course of action based on your individual health profile.

For men considering hormone therapy, it is advisable to undergo a comprehensive evaluation that includes blood tests to measure hormone levels, a review of medical history, and an assessment of any symptoms you may be experiencing. This will help ensure that any treatment plan is safe and effective.

In summary, if you are currently taking Finasteride, you can proceed with hormone testing without concern for significant inaccuracies in the results. There are safe, FDA-approved options for testosterone replacement therapy available, but these can be costly. Consulting with a healthcare professional who specializes in hormone therapy is essential to navigate these options safely and effectively. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that you receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

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