Testosterone therapy is becoming more common as doctors write more and more prescriptions. It is used in both men and women to treat symptoms of low testosterone levels, such as fatigue, reduced libido, or hot flashes in women.
Before starting TRT, physicians measure total serum testosterone in the morning. This will help determine if treatment is working.
Testosterone Injections
Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles in men and is necessary for normal sexual function, bone density, and muscle growth. As men age, their testosterone levels dwindle, leading to a loss of strength and energy, mood changes, and a decrease in sex drive. Fortunately, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is available to boost low levels and help with many symptoms of hypogonadism.
Testosterone injection is a solution to be injected into a muscle and comes in different forms, including testosterone cypionate, testosterone enanthate, and testosterone undecanoate (Xyosted). You will receive injections at your doctor’s office or clinic.
Talk to your doctor before you start testosterone therapy Chevy Chase MD, if you have heart, blood vessel, or liver disease. It is also not a good idea to take testosterone if you are trying to get pregnant or you have prostate cancer. The injection can cause blood to thicken, which may be dangerous. This can increase your risk of a stroke or heart attack.
Testosterone Gel
Men with low testosterone who get gels or patches can expect to experience changes in sexual function, such as more excellent sperm production and more frequent and firmer erections. They may also see physical changes, such as body hair growth or swollen breasts (gynecomastia), and might have less energy than usual.
Testosterone therapy can also affect the prostate and can increase blood sugar. That’s why you must talk to your doctor about any health concerns.
This medication interacts with insulin, blood thinners, and oxyphenbutazone. It can also raise your red blood cell count, and this could cause a blood clot that leads to stroke or heart attack. Get emergency care if you have chest pain, cold sweats, weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty breathing. You might also have symptoms of a venous thromboembolic event, such as leg pain or swelling, warmth or bruising, or shortness of breath. Testosterone therapy can also promote fluid retention, which can lead to a dangerous complication in people with kidney or heart failure or a history of liver disease.
Testosterone Patches
Men who receive this testosterone therapy will apply a patch to a spot that is not oily, hairy, or likely to sweat heavily (such as the back, stomach, or upper arms). They should change the patch location each night and avoid putting it over bony areas like shoulders or hips.
Testosterone patches are easy to use but can cause skin irritation at the application site. They also can increase your blood pressure and cholesterol and may affect red blood cell counts, which increases the risk of blood clots and stroke.
Some people who receive masculinizing hormone therapy may experience acne, which usually responds to typical over-the-counter or prescription medications. Others may experience depression or mood swings. You should discuss these issues with your doctor. It is important to tell your doctor about any mental health problems or any other drugs you are taking, including vitamins and supplements. This will help prevent interactions.
Testosterone Pellets
Testosterone pellets are inserted into the buttock area and slowly release testosterone. Pellets are typically made from soy or yam extract and contain the same molecular structure as natural testosterone. Pellet therapy has fewer side effects than injections and often delivers better results. Most men feel more energetic and experience improved muscle mass, concentration, coordination, and libido. Pellet placement is a simple procedure performed under local anesthesia.
The advantage of pellets over injections is that they deliver a steady amount of testosterone to the blood, eliminating peaks and troughs. This means that libido, energy, and physical performance are optimal daily.
The disadvantage of pellets is that they can raise calcium levels in the blood, which may cause kidney problems such as frequent urination and thirst, stomach pain, weakness, or blood in the urine. Following your provider’s instructions about dosage and frequency of pellet insertion is essential to prevent these problems.