The Pros and Cons of Testosterone Therapy

The Pros and Cons of Testosterone Therapy

Researchers performed a clinical trial on men aged over 65 who took TRT for a period of 12 months. At the end of the 12 months results showed an increase of 4.0 ng/mL in antigen levels in 5% of the men. A doctor will also monitor changes in symptoms and side effects at 3 and 6 months after the initial treatment and then annually. However, people using topical treatments must be careful to avoid skin-on-skin contact with other people for at least 6 hours after application. It is important to prevent the risk of transferring the medication onto other people’s skin because it may be dangerous for pregnant people and children. Further 2019 research suggests that TRT can also maintain bone density, with a 2022 study also revealing that TRTs may improve cognitive function and attention span. However, there was a higher incidence of pulmonary embolism, acute kidney injury, and atrial fibrillation among men who received testosterone replacement.

It can ssri increase testosterone cause benefits and side effects and may not be safe for people who have a high risk of certain health conditions. If your TRT dosage is too high, you may experience side effects such as acne, mood swings, irritability, or increased red blood cell count. Long-term monitoring of your TRT dosage is essential for staying healthy. Without proper monitoring, you could end up with too much or too little testosterone, which can lead to side effects and other health problems. By keeping track of your testosterone levels, symptoms, and other health markers, your doctor can help ensure that your TRT is both effective and safe over the years.

This condition, benign prostatic hypertrophy, can be made worse by testosterone therapy. You might confuse low testosterone (low T) with erectile dysfunction. TRT is a common treatment for low testosterone levels, but it may not suit everyone. A 2021 study suggests that long-term TRT improves liver function and reduces cardiovascular risks. However, further studies are needed to assess the long-term effects.

TRT is an acronym for testosterone replacement therapy, sometimes called androgen replacement therapy. It’s primarily used to treat low testosterone (T) levels, which can occur with age or as a result of a medical condition. As testosterone levels are normalized, individuals often experience a reduction in anxiety, an increased ability to handle stress, and a more balanced emotional state. Single-use packets containing 40.5mg of testosterone in alcohol-based gel OR metered-dose pump which dispenses 20.25mg of testosterone in alcohol-based gel pump. The usual starting dose is 1 packet or 4 pumps daily (about the size of 2 quarters) applied to shoulders, upper arms, and abdomen.

Starting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a long-term commitment that comes with both benefits and responsibilities. While many early side effects are manageable, understanding the ongoing impact of treatment is key to staying safe and getting the most out of your therapy. Some men report mood swings, irritability, or a short temper, especially in the initial weeks of therapy.

If your testosterone levels are too low, your dose may be adjusted. At the same time, your doctor will check your red blood cell levels. If you wonder whether testosterone therapy might be right for you, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.

The only way to know whether you truly have low T is by seeing a healthcare provider for a testosterone level test. This is a simple blood test, and most providers require it before prescribing TRT. Hypogonadism hampers the ability to produce normal amounts of testosterone due to a problem with the testicles or with the pituitary gland that controls the testicles. Testosterone replacement therapy, in the form of injections, pellets, patches or gels, can improve the signs and symptoms of low testosterone in these men.

If your T levels are only slightly low for your age, you probably don’t need TRT. If they’re significantly low, your provider will likely do some additional testing before recommending TRT. Certain symptoms can lead to a diagnosis of low testosterone, or hypogonadism, and make you a candidate for TRT [38]. People should be screened for sleep apnea before and during treatment [36-37]. TRT has been shown to provide numerous benefits for people with hypogonadism.