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Insulin Resistance and Testosterone

Meaning

This term describes the bidirectional and clinically significant pathological link between the metabolic condition of insulin resistance and the dysregulation of testosterone levels, particularly in men and in women with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Insulin resistance, where peripheral cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, often leads to compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which in turn profoundly disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This intricate interplay can manifest as low total and free testosterone in men due to suppressed Leydig cell function and, conversely, elevated free testosterone in women due to increased ovarian androgen production. Addressing the underlying metabolic dysfunction is a crucial step for achieving hormonal restoration.