A large number of men purchase over the counter supplements in the hope of raising testosterone levels. Raising testosterone levels can certainly improve sexual function, energy and exercise performance so supplements claiming to do so are quite enticing. Sales of these products total hundreds of millions of dollars each year but unfortunately they just do NOT work.
Over the counter supplements are not regulated by the FDA which means they do not have to be proven work in order to be sold to consumers. Companies simply have to prove that the supplement does not cause harm in order to put it on the shelf. They can claim anything they want regarding efficacy without fear of legal repercussions. Some of these supplement manufacturers will even quote “published” studies regarding the efficacy of their products. In most cases, these studies are funded or performed by the company itself and have no true scientific validity.
DHEA and androstenedione supplements have been the most popular over the counter “testosterone booster” in recent years. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione are steroid hormones produced by the adrenal gland. While some adrenal androgens may be converted into testosterone, this effect is quite minimal. These supplements have not been shown to adequately treat testosterone deficiency or erectile dysfunction. They do not promote significant muscle growth in athletes.
Natural testosterone boosters do not work so we had to bust this myth. Fortunately effective treatment for testosterone deficiency is available with a prescription. We are not against natural products in general. While they may benefit other conditions there is currently no natural product which can appreciably increase testosterone levels or testosterone producing capabilities.
