Androgens hormonal effects

Hormonal effects on the aging process have been areas of current interest. The intricacies of the interaction of the various hormones are undoubtedly involved in the aging process and hence these hormones could be called antiaging agents. Both androgens and estrogens have been studied. Low level estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) has been used to treat postmenopausal women. 

Predictable effects that derive from the known pharmacological drug properties. Examples are masculin-ization of the female fetus by androgenic hormones brain hemorrhage due to oral anticoagulants bradycardia due to p-blockers. 

Mechanism of Action An androgen hormone inhibitor that inhibits 5-alpha reductase, an intracellular enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate gland, resulting in a decreased serum DHT level. Therapeutic Effect Reduces size of the prostate gland. 

Dutasteride (Avodart) [Androgen Hormone Inhibitor/BPH Agent] Uses Symptomatic BPH Action 5a-Reductase inhibitor 4- intracellular androgen levels Dose 0.5 mg PO/d Caution [X, -] Hepatic impair pregnant women should not handle pills Contra Women children Disp Caps SE T Testosterone, T TSH, 4- PSA levels, impotence, 4- libido, gynecomastia Interactions T Effects w/ cimeddine, ciprofloxacin, diltiazem, ketoconazole, ritonavir, verapamil EMS None OD Not expected to produce life-threatening Sxs... 

Male Hormones. The androgenic hormones produced in Ihe testes land adrenal gland t have a w idespread effect upon the development of secondary sexual characteristics (musculature, facial hair, larynx, etc. I. as well as upon the sexual organs and responses themselves. They also promote anabolism tu a marked degree by their effect upon nitrogen and calcium metabolism. The structure of testosterone is shown in the Tahle I. 

Progesterone is the most important progestin in humans. In addition to having important hormonal effects, it serves as a precursor to the estrogens, androgens, and adrenocortical steroids. It is... 

The major effect of androgenic hormones—in addition to development and maintenance of normal male characteristics—is an anabolic action that involves increased muscle size and strength and increased red blood cell production. Excretion of urea nitrogen is reduced, and nitrogen balance becomes more positive. Testosterone also helps maintain normal bone density. 

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