A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]
Get Started Now
Over the last decade, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has seen a notable rise in popularity in Austin. Many older men have opted for TRT to restore hormone levels, seeking to increase their energy and rejuvenate their sex drive.
Despite its popularity, TRT remains controversial due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Safety concerns were raised years ago when studies suggested a possible association between TRT and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Frances Hayes, with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, notes that some of these studies were limited.
“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 research has bolstered this perspective. A study disclosed at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone levels and no history of heart disease.
Findings revealed that healthy men on TRT did not have an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death.
Moreover, a study featured in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings found no relationship 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.
The association between TRT and other health conditions offers a varied perspective. While TRT has been linked to an increased incidence of prostate cancer in the past, a study published in the December 2015 Journal of Urology showed that exposure to TRT over a five-year period did not result in a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
The uncertainties surrounding the long-term risks of TRT persist due to limited follow-up in numerous studies. However, this shouldn’t dissuade individuals from considering TRT. It might be a suitable option for specific groups of men.
Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?
Meeting two conditions is essential for TRT prescription in Austin: low testosterone levels (less than 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and the manifestation of multiple symptoms (see page 7). Dr. Hayes points out, “While low levels can exist without symptoms, if key symptoms such as fatigue and sexual dysfunction are absent, commencing TRT isn’t recommended due to ongoing uncertainties about its long-term safety.”
A standard blood test is commonly employed to assess testosterone levels. Given the fluctuations that can occur daily and the impact of medication and diet, multiple tests are required. Dr. Hayes points out, “In about 30% of cases with an initial low testosterone test, subsequent tests indicate normal levels.”
Even with low testosterone levels and various symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) isn’t always the immediate solution. Dr. Hayes advises, “By understanding the root cause of declining levels, we can address it and naturally boost low levels.”
Take weight gain, for instance, often the primary trigger for reduced levels. “Weight has a more pronounced effect on testosterone levels than aging. With increased weight, testosterone levels typically decrease,” she points out. A five-point rise on the body mass index (BMI) scale, such as transitioning from 30 to 35, is comparable to adding 10 years to your age concerning testosterone levels.
“Your doctor should also review any other factors that might affect levels, like medication or medical conditions,” says Dr. Hayes. In these cases, your doctor may address the underlying condition or change your medication or dosage to one that wouldn’t affect testosterone levels.
Men also need to understand the boundaries of TRT, as it’s often portrayed as a wonder drug. “Its impact is typically not as remarkable as men perceive,” Dr. Hayes explains.
Take sexual health and vitality, for example, often cited advantages of TRT. A study published in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine examined the effects of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those receiving TRT for one year, compared to those on a placebo, witnessed improvements in sexual function, encompassing activity, desire, and erectile function. Nonetheless, the group experienced only a slight mood enhancement and observed no changes in walking speed, a measure of TRT’s impact on vitality.
Using TRT
TRT is commonly delivered via gel or injection. With a gel, you apply the daily dose, similar in size to a ketchup packet, over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are given into the buttocks once every two weeks.
Both methods have distinct merits. Gels provide steadier levels of testosterone. “However, you must avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as testosterone can cause acne or hair growth,” advises Dr. Hayes.
Testosterone levels can reach high levels for a few days post-injection and then slowly decrease, creating a roller-coaster effect with fluctuating mood and energy levels.
Improvement in symptoms for men in Austin is usually seen within four to six weeks, but muscle mass increases may need three to six months.
TRT doesn’t have to be permanent. “If the issue that caused your testosterone levels to drop is resolved, you should trial stopping the treatment and be re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.