A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In Carmel

Despite its growing popularity, TRT remains a debated topic because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, research suggested a possible association between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk, raising safety concerns.

Dr. Frances Hayes, from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, points out the limitations in some 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.”

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In Carmel?

Evaluating testosterone levels commonly involves a standard blood test. Given their susceptibility to daily fluctuations and influences from medication and diet, multiple tests are necessary. Dr. Hayes highlights, “In roughly 30% of cases with an initial low testosterone test result, subsequent tests demonstrate normal levels.”

Even in the presence of low testosterone levels and multiple symptoms, immediate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) isn’t always recommended. Dr. Hayes advises, “Identifying the root 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 might influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” suggests Dr. Hayes. In these situations, your doctor may address the underlying issue or modify your medication or dosage to prevent affecting testosterone levels.

Men also need to understand the boundaries of TRT, as it’s often seen as a panacea. “Its impact is typically not as dramatic as men imagine,” 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.