We've talked about this before - many have seen these commercials for 'low-T', or low testosterone.
In the past decade, sales of drugs to raise low-T have soared.
But a new federally-funded study raises more questions about their effect on the heart.
In the months after starting prescription testosterone, two groups had double the rate for heart attack: 1.) men 65 and older; and 2.) Under 65, but with known heart disease.
-Other recent studies have had similar results, including one published in November in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The researchers wondered whether it was the testosterone itself or its impact on behavior. The drugs boost low sex drive, which can increase strenuous sexual activity. That can translate into more heart attacks.
To verify, the researchers looked at a group men using Viagra and Cialis, but didn't find any increase in heart attacks among them.
The Food & Drug Administration is now reviewing the studies.
Any man thinking about these medications needs to discuss their risks with their healthcare provider.
