A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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Over the past decade, Las Colinas has seen a marked increase in the popularity of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Numerous older men are opting for this treatment to restore their hormone levels, hoping to boost their energy and revive their sexual desire.

Although TRT is widely used, it remains a contentious topic due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Past studies indicated a possible connection between TRT and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, causing safety concerns.

At the Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Frances Hayes sees 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 confirm this stance. At the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, research on 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone levels and no cardiovascular disease history revealed that TRT did not heighten the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.

The August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings published further findings showing no association 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 link to other health issues is varied. Although previous studies suggested a higher risk of prostate cancer with TRT, a December 2015 Journal of Urology study indicated no increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer with five years of TRT exposure. This challenges conventional understanding and calls for further investigation into TRT’s long-term effects.

With limited follow-up in numerous studies, the long-term risks of TRT remain unclear. Still, individuals should not dismiss TRT as a potential solution, as it may be suitable for certain cases.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

In Las Colinas, TRT prescriptions require two conditions: low testosterone levels (below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and experiencing multiple symptoms (refer to page 7). Dr. Hayes emphasizes, “While it’s conceivable to have low levels without symptoms, if crucial symptoms like fatigue and sexual dysfunction aren’t present, initiating TRT isn’t advisable due to current uncertainties surrounding its long-term safety.”

A blood test is a common method to measure testosterone levels. Due to daily fluctuations and the influence of medication and diet, multiple tests are necessary. Dr. Hayes explains, “In around 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test indicates low levels, subsequent tests show normal levels.”

Even in cases with low testosterone levels and various symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may not be the immediate answer. Dr. Hayes suggests, “By understanding the underlying cause of declining levels, we can address it and naturally enhance low levels.”

For instance, TRT is frequently touted for its potential benefits to sexual well-being and vitality. A study in the February 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine investigated 790 men aged 65 and older to evaluate TRT’s effects. Those who underwent TRT for a year, compared to those taking a placebo, reported improvements in sexual function such as activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group experienced only marginal improvements in mood and noticed no changes in walking speed, which is a measure of TRT’s impact on vitality.

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

It’s important for men to recognize the limitations of TRT, frequently seen as a cure-all. “Its outcomes are typically not as astounding as men expect,” Dr. Hayes observes.

An example of this is the frequent emphasis on sexual health and vitality as benefits of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). A study published in the February 18, 2016 release of The New England Journal of Medicine investigated the effects of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Participants who received TRT for one year, compared to those on a placebo, observed improvements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group only experienced a marginal improvement in mood and detected no changes in walking speed, a measure of TRT’s effect on vitality.

Using TRT

TRT can be administered via gel application or injections. Gel application entails applying a daily dose, about the size of a ketchup packet, to both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Both methods offer advantages, with gels known for their ability to stabilize 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.

Following an injection, testosterone levels may briefly surge before tapering off, causing mood swings and energy fluctuations akin to a roller-coaster.

In Las Colinas, most men typically see symptom improvement within four to six weeks, although changes in muscle mass might take three to six months.

TRT is not necessarily a lifelong commitment. “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.