UNVEILING THE TRUTH ABOUT TESTOSTERONE PATCHES: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
An onslaught of commercials and online ads promising to cure low testosterone (also referred to as low T) might have you wondering–do I have low testosterone?
Low testosterone causes distinct symptoms like low sex drive, weight gain, breast tenderness, and more. Low T is diagnosed with two blood tests (testosterone levels change throughout the day, so two tests that fall below the “normal” range are required for a diagnosis). If you’re diagnosed with low T, you have options for treatment. One of those options is a testosterone patch for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Not everyone is a candidate for TRT. Continue reading to learn more about the testosterone patch.
WHAT ARE TESTOSTERONE PATCHES?
The testosterone patch is an FDA-approved prescription treatment for low testosterone (also known as hypogonadism). It’s one method of testosterone replacement therapy. The patch is transdermal, meaning it’s applied to the skin where it releases a slow, continuous dose of hormones into the bloodstream.
The testosterone patch is sold under the brand name AndroDerm. It’s not available over-the-counter or as a generic medication. Clinical trials show that 97% of men with low T who tried the patch achieved a normal testosterone level.
HOW DOES THE TESTOSTERONE PATCH WORK?
Testosterone patches should be applied once a day to clean, dry, and intact skin. Common spots to place it include the back, abdomen, upper body, or thighs. You should not apply it to the scrotum. Make sure to change your application site to avoid skin irritation.
RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF THE TESTOSTERONE PATCH
Like many prescription drugs, TRT comes with certain risks––some mild, some severe. Potential side effects of TRT include:
– Infertility and shrinking of the testicles
– Acne and oily skin
– Gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts)
– Calcification of blood vessels
– Blood clots
– Changes in urine flow, including difficulty with urination
– Sleep apnea
– Swelling in the legs or ankles
– Erythrocytosis (production of too many red blood cells)
– Other possible side effects of transdermal testosterone include redness, irritation, rash, or blisters at the application site.
WHO SHOULD AVOID TAKING TESTOSTERONE?
TRT potentially heightens the risk of developing prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). The thought behind this is testosterone can drive prostate growth and increase what are called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Large-scale clinical trials haven’t been conducted on TRT and the risk of cancer or BPH, so more research is needed.
Although research is varied, TRT may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attack or stroke. TRT also suppresses your body’s natural ability to make testosterone, which can affect your fertility.
HOW CAN I GET THE TESTOSTERONE PATCH?
The testosterone patch is available by prescription only. Talk with a healthcare provider if you suspect you might have low T and see if the testosterone patch is right for you.
UNDERSTANDING TESTOSTERONE AND LOW T
Testosterone is an androgen, or primary biological male sex hormone, which is present from birth in all people. In biological men, it’s produced by the testicles and adrenal glands, while in biological women, it’s produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands.
WHAT ARE NORMAL TESTOSTERONE LEVELS IN MEN?
Your testosterone level is measured with two blood tests or a test kit involving a saliva sample. According to the American Urological Association (AUA), a total testosterone value below 300 ng/dL indicates low testosterone in biological men. However, the exact range of normal values varies, depending on the lab or resource that conducts the test.
HOW COMMON IS LOW TESTOSTERONE?
Low testosterone (or testosterone deficiency) tends to appear in men as they get older, with testosterone levels decreasing about 1–2% per year after age 40. By the time they hit their 70s, around 35% of men have low testosterone.
SYMPTOMS OF LOW TESTOSTERONE
The symptoms of low testosterone can include:
– Decreased libido
– Erectile dysfunction (with loss of morning erections)
– Fatigue
– Loss of muscle mass
– Increased body fat
– Anemia
– Loss of bone mass (osteoporosis)
– Depressed mood
– Fertility issues (like low sperm count)
OTHER TREATMENTS FOR LOW TESTOSTERONE
There are several other options available to treat low T, including topical treatments, injections, buccal (cheek), pellets, and nasal gel. Healthcare providers often recommend trying topical gel forms of testosterone first because they provide stable testosterone levels and are relatively easy to use. But studies don’t show much difference in user satisfaction between TRT gels, injections, or pellets.
If you suspect you may have low testosterone levels, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. They’ll assess if you have low testosterone and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
IN CONCLUSION
Low testosterone can significantly impact your quality of life, but there are effective treatment options available, including the testosterone patch. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before starting any treatment for low T. Remember, seeking medical advice is crucial for personalized care and optimal health.
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.”
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