What is Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone therapy, also known as TRT (testosterone replacement therapy), is a treatment that helps raise low testosterone levels in men back to normal. It can be given through:
- Testosterone injections - Getting shots of testosterone cypionate or testosterone enanthate typically every 2-4 weeks. This delivers testosterone directly into the bloodstream.
- Testosterone gels - Rubbing a gel containing testosterone onto your arms or shoulders daily. The testosterone is absorbed through the skin.
- Testosterone patches - Applying a testosterone patch to the skin to release testosterone slowly. Patches are changed daily.
- Testosterone pellets - Pellets implanted under the skin that release testosterone over 3-6 months.
Who needs Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone therapy may be beneficial for men with low testosterone (low T) due to:
- Hypogonadism - failure of the testes to produce enough testosterone
- Primary hypogonadism - testicular failure from genetics, infection, etc.
- Secondary hypogonadism - pituitary gland failure
- Damage or removal of the testes
- Certain genetic conditions
- HIV/AIDS
- Obesity
- Opioid pain medication use
Symptoms of low T that TRT can help relieve include fatigue, erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, decreased muscle mass, infertility, and depression.
Benefits of Testosterone Therapy
When appropriately prescribed, testosterone therapy offers several potential benefits:
- Increased energy and sex drive
- Improved sexual function
- More facial/body hair and deeper voice
- Build up of lean muscle mass
- Improved mood and cognitive function
- Stronger bones
- Decreased fat mass
Risks of Testosterone Therapy
Possible side effects and health risks include:
- Acne and oily skin
- Breast enlargement
- Prostate issues
- Sleep apnea worsening
- Testicular shrinkage and infertility
- Erythrocytosis (increased red blood cell production)
Close monitoring by a doctor is recommended when on TRT to minimize risks.
In summary, testosterone therapy can effectively and safely treat clinically low testosterone levels when properly managed. It's best to discuss your symptoms thoroughly with your doctor at Optimal Balance Hormone Therapy to determine if TRT is appropriate for your situation.