A new study has brought a new side of testosterone supplements to limelight. Many men take these supplements to improve their energy levels, libido and general health. The study has found that the supplements are not associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Also, they were not found to improve sexual function or health-related quality of life.

The results are contrary to many study findings that have linked the supplements with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The study continued for three years and it was found that the pills did not appear to lead to better well-being, also not with better erectile or ejaculatory function, sexual desire or partner intimacy in comparison to those who received a placebo.

In the study, the researchers looked for changes in coronary artery calcium levels and narrowing of the carotid artery. The measurements were made in men having low or low-normal testosterone levels and were aged 60 years and above. They either took testosterone or a placebo.

The researchers have found that the supplement use neither increases coronary artery calcium nor narrows the carotid artery. “But what our study shows is that middle aged and older men whose testosterone levels are in the normal range -- or slightly below normal -- do not benefit to the same degree, and that they should not indiscriminately use testosterone”, stated endocrinologist Dr. Shalender Bhasin.