Age, health status, and underlying medical conditions can change how testosterone influences cholesterol levels. In 2023, a major clinical trial called the TRAVERSE study looked specifically at whether TRT increased heart problems in men with low testosterone and high cardiovascular risk. That is why researchers study both cholesterol levels and real events, like heart attacks and strokes, to understand the full picture. Instead, they consider the full lipid profile (LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol) together with blood pressure, blood sugar, and family history of heart disease. Many studies have looked at the effect of testosterone therapy on HDL cholesterol.
Together, the patient and clinician can weigh risks and benefits, and decide whether TRT is appropriate, and how closely to monitor cholesterol during treatment. In fact, research shows men on TRT who combine treatment with healthy lifestyle changes often see better cholesterol outcomes than men who rely on TRT alone. Because TRT can alter cholesterol, doctors usually recommend regular blood tests.
T, testosterone; SHBG, sex hormonebinding globulin; DHT, dihydrotestosterone, HDL-C, high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Self-report of heart disease was assessed at every timepoint by asking "Have you ever been told by a health professional that you have heart disease? Two non-fasting blood samples were collected within 4 h of the subject’s awakening to control for diurnal variations in hormone levels. Major cardiovascular risk factors also differ by gender, including lipid abnormalities, which might help to explain some of the increased risk of CVD in men . Certain health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and obesity, can raise your risk for high cholesterol. Your body makes all the blood cholesterol it needs.
In addition to the approved uses, some doctors prescribe testosterone therapy for men whose testosterone levels naturally fall with age. In short, testosterone therapy is more than just a treatment for low energy or poor sexual health. By the end of this guide, you will understand what science currently says about testosterone therapy and cholesterol.
Learn more about what to do if low testosterone levels are affecting how you manage your mental health. Compare 8 of the best online testosterone therapy services available in 2025. For this reason, regular monitoring of cholesterol levels is essential during TRT.
Some studies show mild decreases in LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) and neutral effects on triglycerides. In these younger men, therapy often improves overall metabolic health. Still, heart health should always be monitored closely, and treatment decisions should be individualized. Newer, larger trials show no major rise in cardiovascular events, which should reassure patients and doctors. This trial is important because it was large, carefully designed, and focused on the very group most doctors worry about—older men with heart risk factors. Results showed no significant increase in heart attacks, strokes, or deaths in the testosterone group compared to the placebo group.
Some studies suggest that there is a connection between cholesterol and testosterone levels. Atherosclerosis can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other problems such as erectile dysfunction due to the constricted blood flow that the body experiences. A healthcare provider can ensure that therapy is improving your health overall – and not unintentionally increasing cardiovascular risk. TRT is available in several forms – gels, injections, and patches – and works by supplementing the body’s natural testosterone to reach healthier, more functional levels.

Gender: Female

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