Testosterone therapy, also known as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or androgen replacement therapy, is a treatment that provides supplemental testosterone to help treat low testosterone (low T) levels in men. As men age, their bodies often produce less testosterone, resulting in symptoms like decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and emotional changes.
Testosterone therapy comes in several forms: - Testosterone injections - Typically administered every 1-2 weeks to maintain stable hormone levels. A fast-acting approach. - Testosterone gels - Applied daily to provide the body with a steady low dose of testosterone. Easy to use. - Testosterone patches - Patches that slowly release testosterone through the skin over 24 hours. Convenient dosing.
Before starting treatment, men should have their testosterone blood levels checked because symptoms alone do not always indicate low T. It's also key to rule out other conditions causing similar symptoms. If low T is confirmed, discuss benefits, expectations and risks of therapy with a doctor.
When administered properly under medical supervision, testosterone therapy can effectively: - Increase sex drive and sexual function - Build lean muscle mass and bone density - Boost energy and mood - Improve cognitive abilities - Reduce body fat
However, testosterone therapy does carry some risks like prostate issues, cardiovascular problems, infertility and testicular shrinkage. Careful monitoring is required, especially the first year.
Overall, testosterone therapy can significantly enhance wellbeing and quality of life for men with clinically low testosterone. The potential benefits tend to outweigh the risks when managed appropriately. Leading men's health clinics like The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic offer full assessments and customized testosterone therapy programs to help men feel healthy, energetic and youthful again.
I hope this overview on what testosterone therapy is helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.