A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

Get Started Now

Over the past ten years, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has become increasingly popular in Westshore. Many older men have pursued TRT to replenish their hormone levels, seeking to boost their energy and rekindle their sexual desire.

Even with widespread use, TRT is a contentious issue because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, studies indicated a possible link between TRT and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, causing safety concerns.

Highlighting the limitations in some studies, Dr. Frances Hayes, a reproductive endocrinologist at the Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, provides insights.

“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 research supports this position. A study disclosed at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions examined 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone levels and no cardiovascular disease history.

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

The August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings presented findings indicating 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.

TRT’s connection to other health issues presents a mixed scenario. Although TRT was previously associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer, a December 2015 Journal of Urology study indicated no increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer with five years of TRT exposure. This finding challenges conventional understanding and suggests further investigation into TRT’s long-term effects.

The long-term risks of TRT are still unknown, given the limited follow-up in many studies. However, individuals should not disregard TRT as a potential solution, as it may still be suitable for specific cases.

Using TRT

Administering TRT is possible through gel application or injection. With gel, the daily dose, approximately the size of a ketchup packet, is spread over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are usually administered into the buttocks every two weeks.

Both methods offer unique benefits, with gels maintaining stable 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 an injection, testosterone levels may spike temporarily before tapering down, resulting in mood and energy levels fluctuating in a roller-coaster pattern.

Most men in Westshore usually see symptom improvement within four to six weeks, but muscle mass changes may take three to six months.

TRT doesn’t have to be lifelong. “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.