...

172 Center St Suite 8

Jackson, WY, 83001, USA

(307) 203 8159

24/7 Customer Support

Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 17:00

Online store always open

Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone Replacement Therapy, Benefit, Risk & Procedure

As a man grows older, his body starts showing symptoms that it is not functioning the way it was before. This mainly happens because of the drop in the key hormone testosterone. 

The testosterone hormone declines with age, typically after the age of 35. However, it can be restored through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

Men with low testosterone can choose TRT after consulting with their doctor. This therapy is also well-received by older men. Though TRT has shown some benefits, it does come with some side effects. 

In this blog, we will explore everything about testosterone replacement therapy. From its benefits and side effects to everything in between. 

What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)? 

Testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, is a medical treatment that helps restore testosterone levels in the body. The testosterone levels usually peak in late adolescence, around ages 18 to 20. However, these levels drop as men grow older. 

The testosterone hormone is present in women as well, but it is found abundantly in men. It plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues, such as the testes and prostate. During puberty, it can lead to an

  • Increase in bone and muscle mass.
  • Thickening of body hair.
  • Deepening of the voice.

What are the Different Types of Testosterone Replacement Therapies?

Testosterone replacement therapy has various types. And people choose from different therapies after consulting with their doctor. The following are the most common types of testosterone replacement therapies available:

  • Injectable testosterone 
  • Transdermal patches 
  • Topical gels and creams 
  • Buccal tablets 
  • Pellets implant 
  • Oral testosterone 
OverviewInjectable TestosteroneTransdermal Patches Topical Gels and CreamsBuccal TabletsPellets Implant Oral Testosterone
Names Testosterone enanthate, cypionate, or undecanoateAndrodermAndroGel, Testim, FortestaStriant Testopel
  BioTE
Testosterone undecanoate
Frequency Weekly, bi-weekly, or every 10 –14 weeks (depending on type)Once daily, applied in the evening, usually on clean and dry skinOnce daily applied in the morning on clean and dry skin  
The tablet is placed in the upper gum area
Implanted under the skin (usually in the hip area) for 3 to 6 monthsSplit into two doses, taken one in the morning and one in the evening 
Pros Effective, affordableSteady hormone levelsEasy to use, stable hormone levelsAvoids liver metabolismLong-lasting no daily maintenance Easy to take
ConsHormone levels may spike and drop between dosesSkin irritation, daily application requiredRisk of transferring testosterone to others via skin contactGum irritation must be applied twice dailyRequires a minor surgical procedureHistorically avoided due to liver side effects. (New versions do not cause this problem.)

Who Should Consider Taking TRT?

TRT is prescribed for men with a hypogonadism condition. It’s a condition in which a man’s testosterone levels are below average. Besides that, men with the following conditions may also consider this therapy:

  1. Men with clinically low testosterone levels confirmed by blood tests (hypogonadism).
  2. Men experiencing symptoms like low libido, fatigue, decreased muscle mass, and mood changes are linked to low testosterone.
  3. Men with certain medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
  4. Men with osteoporosis or low bone density are related to testosterone deficiency.
  5. Men with delayed puberty or underdeveloped secondary sexual characteristics due to low testosterone
What-are-the-benefits-of-Testosterone-replacement-therapy-

Who Should Avoid TRT?

TRT is not meant for every person. Individuals should talk to their doctors before considering this therapy. Generally, the therapy is not recommended for people with the following conditions:

  • Prostate or Breast Cancer
  • Elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)
  • Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea
  • Severe Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
  • Uncontrolled Heart Failure
  • Recent Stroke or Myocardial Infarction 
  • Elevated Hematocrit Levels
  • Desire For Fertility: (TRT can suppress spermatogenesis, leading to reduced fertility).

What are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?

When a man’s testosterone level drops, they will not easily know it. A few common symptoms related to low testosterone levels are:

  • Reduced sex drive (low libido)
  • Erectile dysfunction or difficulty achieving/maintaining an erection
  • Fatigue and decreased energy levels
  • Loss of muscle mass and strength
  • Increased body fat, especially around the abdomen
  • Mood changes such as depression, irritability, or difficulty concentrating
  • Decreased bone density (leading to osteoporosis)
  • Reduced body hair or thinning of facial and body hair
  • Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
  • Reduced motivation and self-confidence
  • Smaller testicle size

How Do Doctors Diagnose Low Testosterone Levels? 

There are different methods that doctors use to determine testosterone levels. They typically conduct a physical examination and evaluate symptoms. After which, they perform a blood test. 

Doctors diagnose low testosterone levels by:

1. Reviewing Symptoms:

In this step, doctors begin by asking about symptoms. These symptoms include low sex drive, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, infertility, or loss of muscle mass. 

2. Physical Examination:

After that, a detailed physical examination is performed to check for signs such as reduced body hair, enlarged breasts, or small testicles. 

3. Blood Test:

This is the most important step. In this step, doctors take your blood sample. This test is usually taken in the morning between 7 and 10 a.m., when testosterone levels are at their highest. 

The most common test is the total testosterone test. It measures both free and protein-bound testosterone.

4. Repeat Testing:

If low hormones in your blood are detected, then the doctor may consider a second test on a different day.

5. Additional Tests (if needed):

If doctors detect low testosterone levels, they may ask for further tests to find the root cause. These tests could include: 

  • LH and FSH hormone tests to check pituitary function.
  • Prolactin levels
  • Imaging tests (like an MRI of the pituitary gland)
  • Tests for other hormone levels or underlying conditions.
what are the potential risks associated with trt

What Are the Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy?  

Testosterone replacement therapy has shown various benefits for different people. A few of the reported and common benefits of the TRT are as follows:

1. Improved Libido and Sexual Function

When a person has low testosterone levels, they face problems with their libido and sex drive. Low testosterone levels can lead to erectile difficulties as well. With proper TRT, individuals may experience improvements in their libido, frequency of sexual thoughts, and erectile quality. 

2. Increased Muscle Mass and Strength

Testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle protein synthesis. Low testosterone levels can affect muscle mass. With the help of TRT, one may potentially feel an increase in lean body mass (muscle) and a reduction in fat mass. 

3. Better Mood and Mental Clarity

Low testosterone levels may cause depression, irritability, and anxiety. Many men on TRT report improvements in emotional stability, motivation, and mental sharpness. While not a treatment for clinical depression, TRT may help stabilize mood in men whose low testosterone contributes to mood disturbances.

4. Increased Bone Density

Testosterone helps maintain bone mineral density. Men with low T are at higher risk for osteopenia or osteoporosis. In this condition, the risk of fractures increases greatly. TRT slows or reverses bone loss to strengthen bones.

5. Enhanced Energy and Vitality

One of the most commonly reported symptoms of low testosterone is persistent fatigue or a lack of vitality. TRT often improves daytime energy levels and reduces feelings of exhaustion.

What Are the Side Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

Just like any other treatment, TRT also has some side effects. The most common side effects of TRT are listed below: 

1. Acne

2. Skin irritation 

3. Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)

4. Increased red blood cell count, leading to the risk of blood clots

5. Fluid retention 

6. Sleep apnea

7. Mood changes 

8. Prostate enlargement

Final Thoughts:

Testosterone levels plays a very important role in a male’s body. When these levels are low, they can impact other functions, including libido, bone density, and muscle mass. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment that is designed to overcome this problem. 

TRT helps restore testosterone levels in the body, which helps improve libido, muscle mass, and bone density. The therapy has many benefits, including improving sexual drive, enhancing mood, overcoming fatigue, and improving bone mineral density. It also has a few side effects, including sleep apnea, acne, skin irritation, and prostate enlargement.  

You can visit Prometheuz if you want to opt for TRT. The online shop provides you with the best doctors who will guide you and evaluate your situation.

FAQs

  1. How to Restore Testosterone Levels Naturally? 

If you want to restore your testosterone levels naturally, you may need to make substantial changes in your lifestyle. You need to take a proper 7-9 hours sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise intensely. You need to manage your weight by eating healthy fats, proteins, and whole foods. Some key nutrients like vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins support testosterone production. 

  1. What are the Alternatives to Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

A few alternatives to TRT include medications such as clomiphene citrate, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), and aromatase inhibitors. In addition to that, a few lifestyle changes, including weight loss, exercise, and improved sleep, could be the best alternative to traditional TRT. These options can help stimulate the body’s testosterone production or manage the symptoms of low testosterone without direct hormone replacement. 

  1. What is the Difference Between Age-Related Testosterone Decline and Hypogonadism?

Age-related testosterone decline is a gradual, mild decrease in testosterone levels. It typically begins after age 40 and is influenced by aging, obesity, or chronic illness. This condition can be reversible with lifestyle changes. In contrast, true hypogonadism is a medical condition caused by testicular (primary) or pituitary/hypothalamic (secondary) dysfunction. This can reduce testosterone levels and impact LH/FSH levels. Unlike age-related decline, hypogonadism can occur at any age.

Share this post with your friends

Join the Discussion

Your email address will not be published.