Conditions · FAQ
What causes low testosterone?
Short answer
Low testosterone can come from problems in the testicles or in the brain signals that control hormone production. Other factors include certain medicines, obesity, major illness, and prior cancer treatment. Testosterone also tends to decline with age, but age alone does not establish a diagnosis or a need for treatment.
The body makes testosterone through a signaling system between the brain and the testicles. Low testosterone can develop when the testicles cannot make enough hormone. It can also develop when the brain does not send enough of the signals needed to support production.
Possible causes include inherited conditions, testicular injury, pituitary disorders, and some cancer treatments. Opioid pain medicines and long-term use of certain steroids can also affect testosterone. Using and then stopping anabolic steroids may disrupt normal hormone production. Results vary. Tell your physician about all medicines, supplements, and hormone products you use.
Obesity, major illness, poor nutrition, and sleep disorders can also be linked with low levels. Testosterone tends to decline with age, but symptoms should not be dismissed as normal aging. Age alone is not a reason to start treatment.
Finding the cause helps guide care. A licensed physician may order additional hormone tests or recommend an in-person evaluation. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own because you think it affects testosterone.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.