In Detail
Testosterone influences body composition in both men and women. In men, low testosterone is consistently associated with increased fat mass (particularly visceral fat), reduced muscle mass, and worsened insulin sensitivity. Restoring testosterone in deficient men improves body composition, often modestly reduces fat mass, and supports the ability to build muscle through training.
In women, low-dose testosterone — used carefully in appropriate candidates — can support muscle preservation, energy, and exercise capacity during the menopausal transition. It is not a weight loss drug, but it can be a meaningful piece of the broader picture.
Testosterone therapy is not appropriate for everyone, and it is not a substitute for the foundational work of nutrition, resistance training, and sleep. When indicated, it complements those efforts.