Testosterone therapy is also known as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or male hormone replacement therapy. It is a procedure used mostly by men to treat hypogonadism or low testosterone levels.
Testosterone is a very beneficial hormone in the body, especially in men. It looks after increasing bone strength and density, muscle strength, and many more.
Why Do Testosterone Levels Decrease with Age?
It is natural for the body to produce less testosterone with age. A natural decrease in the testosterone level is not a sign of concern.
However, the rapid decline in its production can lead to low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, lower sperm count or volume, trouble sleeping, loss of muscle and bone density, sudden gain in weight, etc.
There are charts available in different hospitals, clinics, and medical websites that display the average testosterone level a man should have in different periods of his life. If the count is only slightly low for your age, testosterone replacement therapy is not necessary.
However, if they are comparatively very low, the individual would likely have to undergo TRT. The easiest way to figure this out is by taking the testosterone level test.
Why do Men Undergo Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone Therapy for Men Lubbock is performed primarily for the following reasons:
Treating Low Testosterone Level
Men take up testosterone therapy mainly to treat their low testosterone levels. In men, this hormone usually starts decreasing after age 30. However, other factors that can lead to its reduction are injury to the testicles, cancer treatments, chronic diseases, and stress.
Treating Erectile Dysfunction
With age, erectile dysfunction (ED) is common in men. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability of a man to get or maintain a penile erection. Low testosterone is one of the reasons for erectile dysfunction. In such scenarios, testosterone therapy is the most common way to get rid of the problem.
Improving Physical Performance
Testosterone therapy contributes to enhancing the athleticism and performance of an individual. Most athletes use it to boost their strength and stamina. It is also suitable for men who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia.
Benefits of Testosterone Therapy
As established earlier, testosterones have a very important and vital role to play in the body’s overall functioning. Therefore, it becomes important to maintain the perfect balance of hormones.
Some of the major benefits of getting testosterone replacement therapy include the following:
Increased Libido
It is common for both men and women to experience low sex drive as they age. However, experiencing the same at a young age can be a sign of concern. TRT boosts the level of testosterone in the body. It facilitates higher sex drives. However, testosterone replacement therapy is also performed to reverse the effects of hypogonadism in old people. It not only improves one’s sexual health but also increases performance.
Boosts Your Mood
It is normal for people to experience fluctuations in their moods. There are ups and downs in everyone’s life. However, there are people who experience extreme mood swings on a daily basis.
These people are advised to get their hormones examined because, often, these mood swings result from low testosterone levels. It can cause depression, irritability, and fatigue. In such situations, testosterone replacement therapy is the best option.
The inducement of additional testosterone is necessary to improve mood. This is because a good mood is essential to maintain a healthy and peaceful life.
Fitness and Weight Control
As mentioned before, low testosterone levels can lead to sudden weight gain. An adequate amount of testosterone is necessary to maintain a lean muscle mass and increased energy. Thus, testosterone replacement therapy is advised to improve one’s muscle mass and strength.
Other important benefits associated with testosterone replacement therapy include improved sexual drive and performance, sharpened memory, improved metabolism, decreased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and restoration of the mineral density of the bones.
How is TRT Admistered?
Testosterone replacement therapy can be induced and administered in several ways. The best way suitable for the patient is mostly suggested by the doctor, depending on their medical needs and lifestyle.
In some cases, the doctor might prescribe daily administration. However, there are also situations where daily administration is not required. The common modes in which TRT can be administered are as follows.
Gels (Androgel and Testim)
The testosterone gel is applied directly on the skin. Depending on the brand and doctor’s prescription, this gel can be applied on the shoulders, upper arms, and abdomen.
To avoid health complications, applying this gel carefully on clean, dry, and intact skin is important. The area where the gel is applied should remain covered with a cloth. Once the gel is applied, the applier should wash their hands immediately with soap and water.
Patches (Androderm)
Testosterone transdermal patches are applied directly on the skin. It is better to apply this patch at night and leave it on the surface for at least 24 hours. These are to be worn throughout the day until a new one replaces them.
They should be changed after every 24 hours. The patches should be applied on different spots every night. One should wait at least 7 days before applying the patch on the spot that was used before.
Injections (Depo-Testosterone)
The injection-based testosterone therapy was first approved in 1979. The liquid in the injection is administered right into the gluteal muscle.
The main component of the solution is the active ingredient testosterone cypionate. It is mixed together with other important ingredients. There are two levels and strengths of these drugs available in the market: 100 mg and 200 mg.
While gel, injections, and patches are the most popular testosterone replacement therapy products, other supplements are also available in the market. These include Metadren, Striant, Natesto, Testred, Virilon, etc.
Conclusion
Testosterone replacement therapy has been popular among many with low testosterone levels. However, before applying or consuming any product, it is always advisable to get an expert opinion. Doctors will help and guide you in understanding if your body is really in need of testosterone therapy. It is also important to stay under the monitoring glass of medical professionals while consuming the supplements to remain assured and safe.