The University of Pittsburgh will participate in a national trial to test whether testosterone gel can help older men increase their vitality, thinking ability and sexual libido.

The trial, being coordinated by the University of Pennsylvania and funded by the National Institutes of Health, will enroll 800 men 65 and older in 12 cities. The men have to demonstrate that they have difficulty walking, have lost strength or sexual function, aren't thinking as clearly or have heart disease or anemia.

They will then be put in two groups. One will get a gel that contains the male hormone testosterone that will be rubbed on the abdomen, torso or upper arms. The other will get a placebo gel. Neither group will know which ointment it is getting. Researchers will then test their testosterone levels each month for three months and then every three months up to a year.

The idea is to find out whether testosterone gel can boost levels of the hormone in the body and whether it can help reverse any of the symptoms. Those interested in participating should contact Pitt at 1-800-872-3653.

Looking for more from the Post-Gazette? Join PG+, our members-only web site. You'll get exclusive sports content, opinion, financial information, discounts from retailers and restaurants, and more. Our introduction to PG+ gives you all the details.