A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has grown immensely popular over the past decade in Exton. Numerous older men have pursued TRT to restore hormone levels, with the goal of refueling their energy and revitalizing their sexual desire.

TRT remains controversial because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, safety concerns were raised when research indicated a possible link between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Dr. Frances Hayes, a reproductive endocrinologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, highlights the limitations in 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

New findings have endorsed this stance. A study reported 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.

The investigation concluded that TRT did not pose a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.

Research published in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed 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.

Moreover, the December 2015 Journal of Urology findings suggested that exposure to TRT over a five-year duration did not elevate the risk of aggressive prostate cancer, underscoring the complexity of the relationship between TRT and prostate health.

The long-term risks of TRT continue to be uncertain due to limited follow-up in various studies. However, this shouldn’t discourage individuals from considering TRT. It might be a suitable option for specific groups of men, emphasizing the importance of individualized medical advice.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

Meeting two conditions is essential for TRT prescription in Exton: 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.”

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

Despite having low testosterone levels and exhibiting various symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) might not be the immediate approach. Dr. Hayes suggests, “By identifying the source of declining levels, we can often address it and naturally elevate low levels.”

Take weight gain, for instance, which is frequently the main contributor to declining levels. “Weight has a larger impact on testosterone levels compared to 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 concerning testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also review any other factors that might affect levels, such as 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 must grasp the constraints of TRT, as it’s frequently regarded as a cure-all. “Its outcomes are often 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 through gel or injection. With a gel, you apply the daily dose, about the size of a ketchup packet, over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are generally given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Both methods have distinct perks. Gels maintain more consistent testosterone levels. “But you must be careful to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as testosterone might cause acne or hair growth,” says Dr. Hayes.

Injections cause testosterone levels to peak for several days before tapering off, resulting in a roller-coaster effect where mood and energy levels rise and then fall.

Most men in Exton notice relief within four to six weeks, but muscle mass changes may take three to six months.

TRT doesn’t have to be a lifelong solution. “If the underlying cause of your testosterone drop is resolved, you should attempt a trial off the treatment and consult with your doctor for re-evaluation,” says Dr. Hayes.