The experiences and perceptions of males using testosterone booster supplements – An exploratory cross-sectional survey

Circulating testosterone levels decrease as males age and this is associated with changes in muscle mass, bone density, libido and general wellbeing. Testosterone booster (TB) supplements are purported to increase testosterone and mitigate some of the physical and psychological symptoms of ageing. These supplements are popular in young and middle-aged males yet there is limited assessment of the beliefs, perceptions and experiences of males who use TB supplements. This cross-sectional, online survey explored the motivations, experiences and viewpoints of a sample of 182 males with experience of using TB supplements. Approximately two thirds of survey respondents perceived they had gained expected benefits from TB supplements despite concomitant use of other dietary supplements, instigation of lifestyle change and lack of objective measurement of effects. Perceived benefits included positive body composition alterations and improvements to energy and libido. One quarter of respondents reported mild side-effects from TB supplements. As such, caution is advised when taking TB supplements, and monitoring of adverse events is recommended.