UNLOCKING THE TRUTH ABOUT TESTOSTERONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (TRT): BENEFITS, RISKS, AND CONSIDERATIONS

You might have heard testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) touted as a cure-all for the broadest of symptoms. “Tired? Stressed? Low sex drive? Moody? Ask your doctor about TRT!” But the truth about testosterone is more complex than that, and there are real risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy.

UNDERSTANDING TESTOSTERONE

Testosterone is a sex hormone vital for numerous bodily functions. While present in both men and women, men naturally have higher levels. Testosterone contributes to muscle growth, bone health, libido, and red blood cell production. It also influences mood and cognitive function, and it’s responsible for characteristic male traits such as deep voices, facial hair, and sperm production.

SYMPTOMS OF LOW TESTOSTERONE

Testosterone levels tend to decline with age, typically dropping by 1% to 2% per year starting around age 40. Besides aging, various factors like sleep problems, infections, diabetes, and obesity can contribute to low testosterone levels. Symptoms of low testosterone, or low T, include decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, increased fat gain, anemia, and osteoporosis.

WHAT IS TRT?

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is prescribed for men diagnosed with low T or hypogonadism. TRT aims to restore testosterone levels to normal by replacing the missing testosterone with pharmaceutically manufactured testosterone. Diagnosis usually involves two morning testosterone tests, along with clinical symptoms, to confirm low levels. Other hormone tests may also be conducted to rule out underlying conditions.

METHODS OF TRT DELIVERY

TRT can be administered through various methods, including topical gels, injections, buccal systems, pellets, oral tablets, and nasal gel. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, with topical gels being commonly preferred for their stable testosterone levels and ease of use.

BENEFITS OF TRT

Research has shown that TRT can have several benefits, including improvements in mood, anemia, bone density, sexual function, and exercise tolerance. Additionally, TRT may decrease body fat and increase lean muscle mass, enhancing overall well-being for men with low T.

WHO SHOULDN’T GET TRT?

While TRT can be beneficial, it’s not suitable for everyone. Men with pre-existing conditions such as prostate or breast cancer, severe lower urinary tract symptoms, untreated sleep apnea, conditions predisposing to blood clots, or uncontrolled heart failure may face higher risks associated with TRT. Additionally, TRT may affect fertility, making it important for men planning to have children to consider alternative treatments.

SIDE EFFECTS OF TRT

TRT is not without risks. In addition to potential side effects like acne, gynecomastia, elevated cholesterol, and increased risk of BPH, there’s a possible association with cardiovascular problems. It’s crucial for individuals considering TRT to weigh the benefits against the risks and discuss their individual risk profile with a healthcare provider.

CONCLUSION

While testosterone replacement therapy offers a promising solution for men with low T, it’s essential to approach it with caution and awareness of potential risks. If you suspect you have low T or are experiencing related symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider for a testosterone test is the first step toward determining the most suitable treatment plan for you.

DISCLAIMER

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

SOURCES:

1. Bhasin, S., & Cunningham, G. R. (2010). Testosterone therapy in men with androgen deficiency syndromes: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. *The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 95*(6), 2536-2559.
2. Snyder, P. J., & Bhasin, S. (2016). Effects of testosterone treatment in older men. *New England Journal of Medicine, 374*(7), 611-624.
3. Traish, A. M., et al. (2018). Testosterone deficiency. *American Journal of Medicine, 131*(5), 478-484.
4. Hackett, G., et al. (2016). British Society for Sexual Medicine guidelines on adult testosterone deficiency, with statements for UK practice. *The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 13*(2), 150-164.
5. Corona, G., et al. (2018). Cardiovascular risk associated with testosterone-boosting medications: a systematic review and meta-analysis. *Expert Opinion on Drug Safety, 17*(5), 511-527.

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