Testosterone Therapy Testosterone Therapy

Testosterone Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), is a hormone replacement therapy often prescribed to counter the effects of male hypogonadism, or low testosterone production.

The procedure

When the body no longer produces sufficient amounts of testosterone, replacement therapy is an option. TRT can help men with low testosterone regain senual function, support overall health and energy levels, as well as mood and mental function.

Testosterone levels generally peak during adolescence and early adulthood. As you get older, your testosterone level gradually declines — typically about 1 percent a year after age 30 or 40. It is important to determine in older men if a low testosterone level is simply due to the decline of normal aging or if it is due to a disease (hypogonadism).

Hypogonadism is a disease in which the body is unable to produce normal amounts of testosterone due to a problem with the testicles or with the pituitary gland that controls the testicles. Testosterone replacement therapy can improve the signs and symptoms of low testosterone in these men. Doctors may prescribe testosterone as injections, pellets, patches or gels.

A low testosterone level by itself doesn’t need treatment. Only men with symptoms of low testosterone and blood levels that confirm this as the cause of symptoms should consider testosterone replacement therapy. Talking with your doctor is the only way to know if testosterone therapy is right for you.

A low testosterone level by itself doesn’t need treatment. Only men with symptoms of low testosterone and blood levels that confirm this as the cause of symptoms should consider testosterone replacement therapy. Talking with your doctor is the only way to know if testosterone therapy is right for you.

Why not a simple testosterone pill? Oral testosterone is available. However, some experts believe oral testosterone can have negative effects on the liver. Using other methods, such as skin patches, gels, orally disintegrating tablets, or injections, bypasses the liver and gets testosterone into the blood directly.

The delivery method will be selected by the physician and patient.

How low testosterone is treated

The testosterone replacement is achieved by absorption through the skin (transdermal or topical) or direct injection (subcutaneous) into the muscle mass or under the skin.

Testosterone replacement therapy is available in several forms. All can improve testosterone levels:

  • Skin patch (transdermal): A skin patch is similar to a nicotine patch. It’s worn on the arm or upper body, and is changed every day. The patch continually distributes testosterone in a controlled release through the day.
  • Gels (topical): There are several brands of gels that may have different application methods. Testosterone is absorbed directly through the skin by applying the clear gel on your skin once a day, either the body or in the nose. Gels can also be applied using a pump that that dispenses testosterone in the amount prescribed by your doctor.
  • Injections and implants (Subcutaneous): Testosterone can also be injected directly into the muscles, or implanted as pellets under the skin. The pellets slowly dissolve releasing the hormone into the bloodstream.

Why not a simple testosterone pill? Oral testosterone is available. However, some experts believe oral testosterone can have negative effects on the liver. Using other methods, such as skin patches, gels, orally disintegrating tablets, or injections, bypasses the liver and gets testosterone into the blood directly.

The delivery method will be selected by the physician and patient.

Benefits

The ideal outcome from TRT is to regain senual function, energy and clarity of mind. Some men experience a strong change. Others get limited benefits.

  • Many men report improvement in energy level, sex drive, and quality of erections.
  • Testosterone also increases bone density, muscle mass, and insulin sensitivity in some men.
  • Men often report an improvement in mood from testosterone replacement.
  • Men also may be able to focus better, and see improvements in memory and cognitive skills.

Risks

  • Uncommon side effects include sleep apnea, acne, and breast enlargement. All such side effects go away if treatment is stopped.
  • Men who use a testosterone gel should wash their hands thoroughly after applying a dose and make sure that no one else touches the spots where they medicate. If a woman or child comes into contact with testosterone gels, it can cause side effects in them – although this is a very rare occurrence.
  • To continue to benefit, a man with low testosterone must remain on it, and this poses some risk because the very long-term impacts are not fully known. Research over the past few decades has shown little evidence of a link between testosterone replacement therapy and prostate cancer. However, the question has not been entirely laid to rest.
  • There is a debate about the effect of testosterone therapy on cardiac disease, stroke and the formation of blood clots in the veins.
  • Testosterone supplementation can cause male infertility however there are treatments that exists that can spear this side effect.

Testosterone Therapy CAN BE ONE OF THE EFFICIENT TOOLS TO DIAGNOSE THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS

Condition

Low Testosterone

TESTOSTERONE DEFICIENCY? WONDERING ABOUT YOUR T-LEVELS?

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  • Testosterone deficiency is diagnosed online.
  • No appointment is necessary.
  • The requisition for blood work is sent immediately via email.

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FAQ

Are there reasons why I shouldn’t try TRT?

We don’t recommend TRT for people with the following conditions:

  • Congestive heart disease.
  •  Suspicion of prostate cancer.
  • Severe urinary conditions.
  • TRT can only benefit those who have low testosterone.

Are there any side effects from TRT?

There is insufficient research to fully understand the long-term effects of TRT. Low level side effects can include rash or itching where a gel or patch is applied. There are some concerns related to heart attack and stroke.

Though not empirically proven, there is concern that TRT might stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Medical providers agree that monitoring patients is an essential element of a responsible treatment plan.

How soon will I start to feel the effects?

Typically, men can start to feel a boost in mood, senual function and energy levels within a month of treatment. Regaining muscle mass and strength may take longer.

Can I get TRT to help with with bodybuilding?

No. TRT is a clinical treatment for a medical condition. Individuals receiving TRT should not be taking any steroids or other muscle enhancers. Please make sure Dr. Steinberg is aware of all your prescription medications and over the counter supplements.

Is this male menopause?

Testosterone is classified as an androgen hormone. Declining testosterone levels are sometimes referred to an andropause. Like menopause in women, when men move past middle age, there are undeniable changes in their bodies and minds.

ARE YOU SEEKING TESTOSTERONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (TRT)?

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At Steinberg Urology we pride ourselves on our compassionate care we offer to those facing challenges that affect their quality of life. Our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

If you need to discuss this sensitive medical concern, schedule a consultation at our clinic in a safe confidential environment. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional setting.

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