Testosterone replacement therapy for physician assistants and nurse practitioners

Abstract

Physician assistants (PA) and nurse practitioners have been moving toward specialty practices, like urology. With increased training and education, they manage more complex conditions independently. Whether they are the primary provider or the follow up to a specialist, physician extenders can play a vital role in managing patients undergoing testosterone therapy. Physician extenders should be able to understand the indications, risks and associated adverse effects of administering testosterone in order to proficiently take care of patients with low testosterone. The goal of this review is to recognize the role and the limits to which physician extenders should manage hypogonadism, and when physician collaboration or referral is necessary.

Testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadism

“…In addition to testosterone, healthcare providers should measure serum LH and FSH levels. Elevated LH and FSH levels with low total testosterone typically indicate primary hypogonadism 11,14. Conversely, low or inappropriately normal LH and FSH levels with low total testosterone may suggest secondary hypogonadism.…”