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There is a lot of talk out there about testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Some say it is a testosterone booster, others claim that it’s an anabolic steroid.
But what is testosterone replacement therapy, anyway? Are there benefits or dangers of testosterone treatment in men? What are the medications used for this treatment and their side effects?
This article’s purpose is to clear up any misconceptions about testosterone replacement therapy. We’ll then discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and specific forms of treatment found in TRT procedures.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
Testosterone replacement therapy is the supervised usage of testosterone-boosting products (the other calledandrogen replacement therapy) that contain testosterone to treat andropause, testosterone deficiency, and male hypogonadism.
It is a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that is prescribed to men who suffer from low levels of testosterone, either because the testes do not produce enough testosterone or if the body cannot process it effectively.
The number of people with low testosterone levels is on the rise, with 20% of men aged 60-70 years old having such problems. This figure jumps to a whopping 50% for men aged 80 years old and above.
A 70-year old treatment, testosterone replacement therapy has potential benefits to help men deal with sexual dysfunctions including erectile dysfunction or low testosterone.
Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
TRT has been a gamechanger for those who suffer from impaired sexual function. While men may report different results, the most notable benefits that TRT helps include the following:
- Improvements in energy level
- Boost in mood
- Increase in sex drive and libido
- Higher quality erections
- Better bone density
If you want to experience the benefits of the list, don’t hesitate to take steps to improve your health. Currently, the only FDA-approved indication for TRT in males is when they’re treated for clinical hypogonadism.
Schedule a call with a Low-T medical expert today to undergo specialized testosterone treatments.
Who is Fit for Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
If your testosterone levels are below 300 ng/dL and you have associated symptoms, you may be a candidate for TRT treatment.
A blood test from a medical male clinic may be able to help you determine your testosterone levels.
Signs of Low Testosterone Levels
Having a low testosterone level can lead to notable health problems. It also signals an opportune time to consider having testosterone therapy. The natural levels of T levels in men decline as they undergo the aging process.
For many men, their T levels start declining by an average of 1 to 2% after they reach 30 years old.
If you have noticed any of the following symptoms, then there’s a chance that you have low testosterone levels:
- You feel more fatigued than usual.
- You feel more irritable than usual.
- You have erectile dysfunction.
- You experience a decreased mood.
- Your sexual drive has decreased.
- Your erections don’t get maintained.
- You have a lower muscle mass.
- Your hair is receding.
If you have or are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, then it is best to consult a doctor who can prescribe you a proper testosterone replacement therapy plan.
It’s also important to get an accompanying diagnosis first to ensure that you’re deemed fit for a testosterone therapy prescription.
Types of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Testosterone replacement therapy is typically prescribed as a fertility treatment, but it can also help improve secondary effects like improving your athletic abilities and raising endurance.
Most of the testosterone products are available only with a prescription, but some can be purchased as dietary supplements as well.
Here are the several forms of common TRT treatments:
- Mouth patch: Certain tablets stick to the gums and release testosterone through the oral tissues. This form of T-boosting treatment is mainly used for individuals who have a problem with swallowing.
- Injections and implants: These T-boosting treatments require you to undergo an injection of testosterone in the muscles. The testosterone, then, gets pushed into the bloodstream and circulates your body.
- Skin patch: Applied once per day, a skin patch is worn on your upper body or arm to boost testosterone levels.
- Gels: Your skin absorbs testosterone through the gel which you apply to your upper arms once or twice per day. Certain types of gel get absorbed through your nose.
- Testosterone pills: Oral testosterone can also help with T levels, but it may come with an increased risk of side effects. Consult your doctor before taking this form of treatment.
Testosterone replacement therapy can improve the quality of your erections and boost your libido.
However, it’s also important to recognize that everyone faces these forms of treatment differently—so it’s best to take into account the suggestions of a doctor before choosing the right path for you.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Precautions
Before you start TRT, make sure to engage with a medical professional specializing in TRT for a diagnosis and customized treatment plan. Everyone’s medical history is different.
Although the chances of facing these risks are somewhat rare, here are some side effects that may come up when undergoing a TRT procedure:
- Liver problems
- Enlargement of breasts for men
- High blood pressure
- Water retention
- Rashes
- Itching
- Irritation at the injection site
In addition to the list above, if you have a medical history with the following conditions, you may consult a specialist to ask if the following pre-existing conditions may worsen after TRT treatment.
- Prostate cancer: Testosterone exacerbates the risk of stimulating prostate cancer growth. If you have an elevated prostate, you should get it treated first before turning to TRT.
- Sleep apnea: Sleep disorders like sleep apnea may be worsened after TRT.
- Congestive heart failure: If you have heart complications, it’s best to avoid taking TRT treatment as it may interfere with your existing medication.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): BPH is a type of urinary disease where men can have difficulty urinating. This may be made worse following TRT treatment.
This is not an exclusive list. Contact a doctor for professional medical advice for a more personalized diagnosis.
Consult Atlanta’s Leading TRT Clinic for a Personalized Diagnosis and Treatment
Testosterone replacement therapy is a type of hormone replacement treatment that can help you regain normal T levels.
In combination with positive lifestyle changes like proper diet and exercise, men may experience improved quality of life following TRT.
Nonetheless, it’s important to choose the right treatment based on your specific medical history.
Undergo a consultation with your doctor first to ensure it is safe for you before beginning the plan.
If you’re having issues with erectile dysfunction or low testosterone, call the team at Priority Men’s Medical Center in Atlanta now to schedule an appointment to have a consultation with an experienced and specially trained medical staff. We are one of Georgia’s leading men’s clinics providing ED therapy, PE therapy, Acoustic Wave therapy, and much more to improve male sexual health.
