Telehealth websites promise cure for "male menopause" despite FDA ban on off-label ads

Online stores sprang up during the COVID-19 pandemic's telehealth boom touting testosterone as a cure-all for men's age-related illnesses — despite FDA rules issued years ago restricting such "low testosterone" advertising. 

In ads on Google, Facebook and elsewhere, testosterone telemedicine websites may promise a quick fix for sluggishness and low libido in men. But evidence for that is lacking, physicians said, and the midlife malaise for which testosterone is being touted as a solution is more likely caused by chronic medical conditions, poor diet or a sedentary lifestyle. In fact, doctors urge caution — and the FDA recommends that all testosterone supplements carry a warning that they may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Valid medical reasons do exist for treating some men with testosterone. The hormone as a medication has existed for decades, and today's patients include men with hypogonadism, some transgender men who use it to help transition physically, and, sometimes, women dealing with menopausal symptoms. It has also been used for decades by bodybuilders and athletes to enhance strength.