Final answer:
Androgen therapy may be prescribed to treat symptoms of andropause, despite potential severe and irreversible side effects like heart function impairment and prostate enlargement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Androgen therapy may be prescribed for non-reproductive health issues related to the decline in testosterone levels with aging, a condition known as andropause or male menopause. Symptoms of andropause can include fatigue, reduced muscle mass, depression, anxiety, irritability, loss of libido, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction. Despite the potential risks, which can include liver dysfunction, prostate gland enlargement, difficulty urinating, and cardiovascular issues, some patients may benefit from androgen therapy to alleviate depression and other symptoms that interfere with quality of life. It is important for healthcare providers to carefully consider the benefits versus the risks of hormone replacement therapy, especially given that some side effects can be severe and irreversible, such as heart function impairment and prostate enlargement.