A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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In the last ten years, TRT has seen considerable growth in popularity in Pasadena. Numerous older men have chosen this therapy to restore hormone levels, aiming to enhance their energy and revive their sexual drive.

Although TRT is widely accepted, it remains a contentious matter due to its uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, studies suggested a possible connection between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk, sparking safety concerns.

From the Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Frances Hayes notes the limitations in certain 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

New studies reinforce this position. Research presented at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no history of cardiovascular disease.

The results indicated that TRT did not increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.

The August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings presented findings showing no connection between TRT and blood clots in veins among 30,000 men. “Right now, the jury is still out about TRT’s influence on cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Hayes.

The link between TRT and other health issues presents a mixed scenario. Despite earlier associations between TRT and a higher risk of prostate cancer, a study in the December 2015 Journal of Urology reported no increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer with five years of TRT exposure. This finding challenges conventional beliefs and warrants further investigation into TRT’s long-term effects.

TRT’s long-term risks remain uncertain due to limited follow-up in many studies. Nonetheless, individuals should not shy away from exploring TRT as an option, as it may still be suitable for specific individuals.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

To receive a TRT prescription in Pasadena, meeting two prerequisites is necessary: having low testosterone levels (below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and experiencing various symptoms (refer to page 7). Dr. Hayes emphasizes, “While it’s possible to have low levels without symptoms, if key symptoms like fatigue and sexual dysfunction aren’t present, initiating TRT isn’t advisable due to current uncertainties regarding its long-term safety.”

The evaluation of testosterone levels often requires a standard blood test. Considering the daily fluctuations and the effects of medication and diet, conducting multiple tests is necessary. Dr. Hayes highlights, “In about 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test indicates low levels, subsequent tests show normal levels.”

Even when faced with low testosterone levels and experiencing different symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) might not be the immediate remedy. Dr. Hayes advises, “Understanding the underlying cause of declining levels enables us to address it and naturally raise low levels.”

Consider weight gain, for example, frequently the primary trigger for declining levels. “Weight has a more significant impact on testosterone levels than aging. As weight increases, testosterone levels tend to fall,” she stresses. A five-point jump on the body mass index (BMI) scale, such as moving from 30 to 35, equals adding 10 years to your age in terms of testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also consider any additional factors that could influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” recommends Dr. Hayes.In such cases, your doctor could tackle the underlying issue or modify your medication or dosage to avoid affecting testosterone levels.

Men should grasp the limitations of TRT, as it’s commonly touted as a magical solution. “Its outcomes are typically not as astounding as men expect,” Dr. Hayes observes.

As an example, sexual health and vitality are frequently highlighted as benefits of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). A study in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine delved into how TRT impacted 790 men aged 65 and older. Those administered TRT for a year, as opposed to those on a placebo, noticed improvements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group experienced only a slight uplift in mood and detected no changes in walking speed, indicating TRT’s limited impact on vitality.

Using TRT

TRT can be delivered via gel application or injection. When using gel, the daily dose, approximately the size of a ketchup packet, is distributed over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are usually given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Each method presents specific advantages, with gels ensuring consistent testosterone levels. “However, you should be careful to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as testosterone could cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes advises.

After receiving an injection, testosterone levels can temporarily rise before tapering off, resulting in mood and energy fluctuations similar to a roller-coaster effect.

Within four to six weeks, it’s typical for most men in Pasadena to experience symptom improvement, although muscle mass changes may take three to six months.

TRT doesn’t necessarily have to be continued indefinitely. “If the factor that caused your testosterone drop is resolved, you should try stopping the treatment and be re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.