LONDON, November 8, 2025 — A surge in men seeking testosterone therapy is raising alarms among doctors, who attribute the trend to misleading information circulating on social media platforms. The growing demand is placing a strain on National Health Service (NHS) clinics and carries potential health risks, including impacts on fertility.
The TikTok Testosterone Trend
Doctors are seeing a significant increase in men requesting testosterone treatment based on claims found online.
- Social media is fueling a demand for testosterone therapy among men who may not need it.
- Doctors are concerned about the potential health consequences of unnecessary testosterone treatment.
- The trend is impacting healthcare resources within the NHS.
- One man, ‘Sam,’ shared his personal experience with testosterone therapy.
The allure of testosterone, often referred to as “T,” is being promoted online as a solution for a wide range of issues, from fitness plateaus and persistent fatigue to diminished libido. However, medical professionals caution that this narrative is often inaccurate and can lead individuals to pursue treatments that are not medically necessary. “We’re seeing a lot of men who think testosterone is a cure-all,” explained Professor Channa Jayasena of Imperial College London, chair of the Society for Endocrinology.
What are the risks of unnecessary testosterone therapy? Unneeded testosterone treatment can lead to health problems and negatively affect a man’s ability to have children.
Professor Jayasena noted the increasing number of patients presenting at NHS clinics with requests for testosterone, driven by information they’ve encountered on platforms like TikTok. He emphasized that legitimate medical reasons for testosterone therapy are relatively limited, primarily focusing on individuals with diagnosed hypogonadism – a condition where the testes don’t produce enough testosterone.
“Sam,” who wished to remain anonymous, shared his personal journey, detailing how social media influenced his decision to explore testosterone therapy. His experience highlights the power of online narratives and the potential for misinformation to shape healthcare choices.
Understanding Testosterone and Its Effects
Testosterone plays a crucial role in male development and maintaining various bodily functions, including muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive. However, the idea that simply increasing testosterone levels will automatically resolve issues like fatigue or low libido is a simplification, according to experts.
The long-term effects of unnecessary testosterone therapy are still being studied, but potential risks include cardiovascular problems, prostate enlargement, and, significantly, reduced sperm production, potentially leading to infertility. The decision to undergo testosterone therapy should always be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional after a thorough evaluation.
This is part one of a series exploring the growing popularity of testosterone and the implications of its widespread promotion on social media.
