TRAVERSE: Testosterone Is CV-Safe, But Safety Signals and Overdiagnosis Remain

Endocrinology / Obesity 1 source · Updated Aug 4, 2026

What the TRAVERSE trial actually shows, what it does not, and why pharmacists need to address the Low T marketing phenomenon.

Bottom Line

The TRAVERSE trial demonstrated cardiovascular non-inferiority of testosterone therapy in appropriately selected hypogonadal men, but secondary signals (atrial fibrillation, AKI, pulmonary embolism) and widespread overdiagnosis of Low T demand pharmacist vigilance.

State of Play

The TRAVERSE trial was the first adequately powered RCT to assess testosterone's cardiovascular safety. While the primary MACE endpoint met non-inferiority, secondary endpoints raised concerns about atrial fibrillation, acute kidney injury, and pulmonary embolism.

Evidence at a Glance

Source	Key finding	Grade / Verdict
TRAVERSE: Testosterone Is CV-Safe, But Safety Signals and Overdiagnosis Remain Study · PharmD Signal Reference Card	—

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Not medical advice. PharmD Signal provides educational synthesis of published pharmacy and medical literature for practicing pharmacists. It is not a treatment recommendation for any individual patient; clinical decisions remain the responsibility of the treating clinician exercising independent professional judgment.

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