Testosterone therapy increases muscle mass in men with cirrhosis and low testosterone: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Background & Aims Low testosterone and sarcopenia are common in men with cirrhosis and both are associated with increased mortality. Whether testosterone therapy in cirrhosis improves muscle mass and other outcomes is unknown. Methods We conducted a 12-month, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of intramuscular testosterone undecanoate in 101 men with established cirrhosis and low serum testosterone (total testosterone <12 nmol/L or free testosterone <230 pmol/L) in a single tertiary centre. Body composition was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Results At study completion, appendicular lean mass was significant higher in testosterone-treated ..