What is testosterone?  

• A hormone ‘anabolic steroid’ produced by the testes and ovaries  
• It’s important for energy, libido, muscle mass, and bone health  
• It’s becoming more common – being marketed on social media as “anti-ageing” or performance-enhancing  

When is testosterone use appropriate?  

• It’s intended for replacement therapy, not body enhancement  
• Clinically confirmed low testosterone in males, gender-affirming therapy, low libido around female menopause  
• Consistent symptoms (fatigue, low libido, reduced muscle mass) and repeated low blood levels  
• It should be prescribed and monitored by a doctor 

Where does misuse occur?  

• Anti-ageing and wellness  
  • Promoted for tiredness, weight gain, low energy  
  • It’s often labelled “Low T” or “male menopause”  
  • Normal ageing is medicalised – most men don’t meet treatment criteria  
• Bodybuilding and athletic performance  
  • Used at high doses to increase muscle and strength  
  • Often involves “stacking” multiple anabolic steroids  
  • Banned by organisations such as the World Anti-Doping Agency  
• Supplements and online products  
  • Marketed as “testosterone boosters” or “Super T”  
  • Often unregulated, lack evidence, and may contain harmful substances  

What are the risks of misuse?  

• Excessive dosing can heighten the risk of heart disease and strokes (via thickened blood), and cause breast enlargement and hair loss in men  
• In women, it can result in a deepened voice and excess hair growth (which may be irreversible)  
• Mood changes, including anxiety  
• It can mask underlying conditions such as depression or thyroid disease  

Key points  

Testosterone has a clear medical role. Its benefits are often overstated, while misuse carries significant risk.  

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