The Process of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Many men experience a deficiency in the hormone testosterone, along with troublesome symptoms such as a low sex drive or general fatigue. Testosterone production naturally begins to decrease after age 30, which is a normal part of the aging process. The decline in testosterone is also associated with other medical conditions, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome. 

Regardless of the cause, low testosterone can be effectively treated with testosterone replacement therapy so you can improve your sex drive, energy, and muscle mass. 

What is TRT?

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) increases testosterone levels in men with testosterone deficiency, also known as hypogonadism. For some men, TRT can alleviate symptoms related to low testosterone and improve their quality of life. TRT is similar to hormone replacement therapy, which women use to replace estrogen and progesterone after menopause. 

When it comes to how to get on TRT, you have several options, including: 

Injections: Shots are injected into your muscle or subcutaneous tissue and give you a high dose of testosterone quickly. The injection frequency is dependent on the type of testosterone being used.

Patches: Testosterone patches are applied daily to your skin and deliver a steady dose of the hormone. They’re easy to apply and convenient, but you have to deal with them daily, and they can cause skin irritation. 

Creams and gels: In cream and gel form, testosterone is applied to and absorbed directly through your skin. You’ll get a steady dose of testosterone in a convenient way. However, you do need to be careful not to transfer the hormone to others through skin-to-skin contact. 

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Testosterone is an important male hormone that helps develop male sexual characteristics, maintain muscle mass, regulate mood, and support overall energy levels.

Because testosterone performs so many functions, the symptoms of low testosterone can vary. Some men experience many symptoms, while others have none. Common symptoms of a low testosterone level include:

• Persistent tiredness and reduced energy levels
• Decreased interest in sexual activity
• Erectile dysfunction
• Mood changes such as depression or irritability
• Reduced muscle mass and strength
• Increased body fat, particularly around the abdomen
• Bone density loss with a higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures
• Insomnia or a change in sleep patterns
• Memory problems and difficulty focusing

 

Other conditions can also cause symptoms of testosterone deficiency, so you need to see a doctor and get a blood test for a diagnosis. Blood tests measure free testosterone in your bloodstream. They’re usually performed in the morning when your testosterone levels are naturally highest. 

Your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and may conduct other diagnostic tests to rule out other potential causes. Your healthcare provider will also want to screen you for prostate cancer and rule out underlying causes of low testosterone, such as problems with your pituitary gland. 

How Does TRT Work?

TRT supplements your body’s natural testosterone with synthetic testosterone to restore your normal testosterone levels. You can replace testosterone in several ways — all of them mimic your body’s natural hormone production and increase the level of testosterone in your bloodstream. 

Testosterone replacement isn’t a DIY endeavor. A healthcare provider needs to evaluate you to determine the dosage and best form of testosterone therapy for you. You’ll also need to be regularly monitored to see if your symptoms are improving and determine if your treatment needs to be adjusted. 

 

Benefits of TRT

Many men experience both immediate and long-term benefits from TRT. However, everyone is different, so your results may vary. 

You can usually experience the immediate benefits within a few weeks or months after starting therapy. These include:

• Increased energy levels and less fatigue
• Greater sexual desire and improved erectile function
• Better mood with reduced depression and anxiety
• Improved focus, memory, and concentration

The long-term benefits of TRT may not be apparent for several months or years. These can include:

• Improved muscle tone and physical performance
• Reduced risk of falls and injuries
• Improved bone density with less risk of osteoporosis and fractures
• Decreased body fat, particularly abdominal fat

Risks and Side Effects of TRT

Although TRT can significantly improve symptoms associated with low testosterone, there are some risks and side effects you should be aware of before you begin treatment. Some common side effects include:

• Irritation or rash on your skin where you apply patches or gels
• Acne breakouts and oily skin
• Sleep apnea, either new or exacerbated
• Swelling in your ankles or feet due to retained fluids
• Increased red blood cell count, which can potentially elevate your risk of blood clots
• Possible growth of existing prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

 

Proper medical supervision can help mitigate many of these risks. Overdosing on testosterone can lead to severe complications, including cardiovascular issues like heart disease and hypertension. Your provider will perform regular blood tests to check that your testosterone levels stay within a safe range and monitor potential side effects.

Healthcare providers also screen for TRT contraindications, such as a history of prostate cancer, and provide you with an individualized treatment plan. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider to be sure the benefits of TRT outweigh the risks. 

Conclusion

TRT may effectively address the symptoms of low testosterone and improve your overall quality of life. It’s available in various forms, but you’ll need close medical supervision to manage potential side effects and risks. 

At Men’s Revival, we make testosterone replacement easy. We’ll provide a free, personalized health assessment and blood panel in the comfort of your home at your convenience. Protect your privacy and save time with video telemedicine conferences instead of waiting in line at a clinic. Your prescription will be shipped to you, and you can administer treatments at home. 

If you’re ready to get back to feeling your best and start testosterone replacement therapy, reach out today for a complimentary consultation.