To evaluate the effects of testosterone therapy on mood and cognitive outcomes in adult men through a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, emphasizing the systematic review aspect.
Key Findings:
Depressive symptoms showed the clearest benefit from testosterone therapy, particularly in men with treatment-resistant depression.
Cognitive effects were domain-specific, with moderate testosterone supplementation linked to improvements in verbal memory and visuospatial processing, though results were variable.
Quality of life and sexual function improved consistently across studies, while anxiety outcomes were mixed.
Testosterone therapy was generally well tolerated, with mild and transient adverse events reported.
Interpretation:
Testosterone therapy may provide modest benefits for mood and specific cognitive functions in men with androgen deficiency, but results are inconsistent and dependent on population and study design, highlighting the need for further research.
Limitations:
Heterogeneity in study design, populations, dosing regimens, and outcome measures may limit firm conclusions and affect the interpretation of results.
The need for larger, longer-term trials to clarify which subgroups benefit and to assess long-term cognitive and safety outcomes.
Conclusion:
Testosterone therapy should be considered a complementary strategy for managing psychiatric or cognitive symptoms in men with confirmed androgen deficiency, under endocrinologic supervision to ensure safety and efficacy.
