Prospective non-comparative study on the effectiveness and safety of Alpha, a dietary supplement for treating patients with hypogonadism

Introduction. Male hypogonadism is divided into primary (hypergonadotropic) and secondary (hypogonadotropic). While primary hypogonadism is of testicular genesis, the secondary form is accounted by the defects of hypothalamus or hypophysis, which underlie the testicular malfunction accompanied by androgen deficiency. Testosterone deficiency syndrome is followed by the decrease in libido, gain of fat and loss of muscle mass, lack of concentration, erectile dysfunction, depression, low bone mineral density and insufficient levels of serum testosterone. Such symptoms are encountered by up to 80% of ageing males. Given that hormone replacement therapy is accompanied by negative side effects, the possibility to create an alternative seems to be an interesting idea. These could be safe and effective methods of elevation of testosterone levels in men with age-related hypogonadism. One of such alternatives could become Alpha, a dietary supplement consisting of a combination of different components, with the effect of testosterone elevation and elimination of the symptoms of androgen deficiency. Materials and methods. The study was conducted in the format of an observational program. Urologists in Moscow and Voronezh collected and evaluated information about patients with newly diagnosed androgen deficiency, who was prescribed the drug "Alpha", which was taken by mouth 1 capsule (400 mg) per day. The duration of the estimated period was not less than 3 months. The effectiveness of the drug was determined by the dynamics of the AMS and IIEF-5 questionnaires and the change in serum hormone levels (total testosterone, GSH, LH, FSH, prolactin). Results. Among the men taking the supplement during 90 days, the increase in libido was reported by 36.7% of patients; significant elevation of testosterone level by 8.5% was observed in 74% of patients; clinical effect of the reduction of androgen deficiency symptoms was observed in 95.4% of patients. Conclusions. According to the results of the study, it is advisable to administer Alpha to patients with moderate and especially early symptoms of androgen deficiency, as a part of a complex therapy. Further placebo-controlled studies on the effect of this drug on the quality of life of men with hypogonadism are required.