A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has grown immensely popular in recent years in Anaheim. Millions of older men have sought TRT to replenish hormone levels, with the goal of boosting their energy and revitalizing their sex drive.

TRT remains a controversial subject because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, safety concerns were highlighted when research suggested a possible link between TRT and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Frances Hayes, a reproductive endocrinologist from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, mentions that there were limitations in some of these studies.

“For instance, in one study, TRT doses were much higher than what would usually be prescribed, and the subjects tended to be more frail, with other health problems,” she says. “Other studies showed no evidence of increased risk.”

THE LATEST FINDINGS

Recent findings have confirmed this stance. A study presented at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions included 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no history of heart disease.

Researchers found no higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death among healthy men who received TRT.

A study published in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no association between TRT and venous blood clots among 30,000 men. “Right now, the jury is still out about TRT’s influence on cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Hayes.

TRT’s association with other health concerns presents a complex picture. While TRT has been previously linked to an elevated prevalence of prostate cancer, a study released in the December 2015 Journal of Urology found no connection between exposure to TRT over a five-year duration and an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

Despite the limited follow-up in many studies, the long-term risks of TRT remain ambiguous. Nevertheless, it’s important not to dismiss TRT entirely. It might be a viable choice for certain men.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

To receive a prescription for TRT in Anaheim, you must meet two criteria: low testosterone levels (less than 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and the presence of several symptoms (see page 7). Dr. Hayes explains, “Although it’s possible to have low levels without symptoms, if key symptoms such as fatigue and sexual dysfunction are absent, starting TRT isn’t recommended due to ongoing uncertainties about its long-term safety.”

Measuring testosterone levels often involves a standard blood test. Due to their susceptibility to daily fluctuations and the influence of medication and diet, multiple tests are essential. Dr. Hayes explains, “About 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test indicates low levels show normal levels upon retesting.”

Despite low testosterone levels and multiple symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may not be the first course of action. Dr. Hayes suggests, “Identifying the underlying cause of declining levels allows us to address it and naturally increase low levels.”

Take weight gain, for instance, which is often the leading factor behind declining levels. “Weight has a more substantial effect on testosterone levels than aging. As weight increases, testosterone levels decrease,” she explains. A five-point increase on the body mass index (BMI) scale, such as moving from 30 to 35, is comparable to adding 10 years to your age regarding testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also examine any other factors that could affect levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” suggests Dr. Hayes. In these cases, your doctor may address the underlying issue or modify your medication or dosage to prevent affecting testosterone levels.

It’s crucial for men to recognize the limitations of TRT, as it’s frequently hailed as a magical solution. “Its outcomes are typically not as dramatic as men expect,” Dr. Hayes states.

Consider sexual health and vitality, for instance, often praised advantages of TRT. In a study detailed in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, researchers assessed TRT’s effects on 790 men aged 65 and above. Those subjected to TRT for one year, compared to those given a placebo, reported improvements in sexual function, encompassing activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group experienced only a slight mood uplift and observed no changes in walking speed, a marker of TRT’s effect on vitality.

Using TRT

TRT can be administered by gel application or injection. When using a gel, you spread the daily dose, about the size of a ketchup packet, over the upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are generally given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Both methods offer unique advantages. Gels maintain stable testosterone levels. “But be careful to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, particularly with women, as testosterone might cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes warns.

Post-injection, testosterone levels can rise to high levels for several days and then slowly come down, resulting in a roller-coaster effect with mood and energy level fluctuations.

Symptom improvement is often felt within four to six weeks for most men in Anaheim, while muscle mass increases might take three to six months.

TRT may not need to be taken forever. “If the initial issue causing your testosterone drop is resolved, you should try discontinuing the treatment and have your doctor re-evaluate you,” says Dr. Hayes.