Testosterone therapy

What is testosterone therapy?

Testosterone therapy, also known as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), is a treatment that helps raise low testosterone (low T) levels in men back to normal. It can help treat symptoms of low T like low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased energy, and mood changes.

Who is a good candidate for TRT? Men with clinically low testosterone levels along with symptoms like:

• Low libido


• Erectile dysfunction


• Loss of muscle mass


• Increased body fat


• Fatigue


• Mood changes like depression

Initial testing is important before starting TRT. A blood test can confirm if you truly have low T. Your doctor will also check for potential causes like a pituitary disorder.

How TRT is Administered

There are a few options to administer supplemental testosterone:

• Injections - Testosterone injections into the muscle are the most common TRT. They are given weekly or every 2 weeks.


• Gels - Topical testosterone gels are rubbed directly onto the skin daily.


• Patches - Transdermal testosterone patches can be worn on the skin to slowly release testosterone.


• Pellets - Testosterone pellets can be implanted under the skin every few months.

Benefits of TRT

The benefits of testosterone replacement can be significant, especially if you've struggled with low testosterone symptoms like low energy, sexual dysfunction, and depressed mood.

TRT can help:

• Boost sex drive


• Improve erections


• Increase energy and endurance


• Build muscle mass


• Improve mood and mental sharpness

Over the long-term, maintaining normal testosterone levels can have a positive impact on your quality of life.

However, TRT does come with health risks too if not properly monitored. That's why it's critical to have your hormone levels tested and get screened for prostate cancer before starting therapy.