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 Poway. Millions of older men have sought TRT to restore hormone levels, hoping to boost their energy and rejuvenate their sexual desire.

Although TRT has become popular, it remains controversial because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, safety concerns emerged when research indicated a possible link between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital’s Dr. Frances Hayes, a reproductive endocrinologist, notes that there were limitations in some of 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 perspective. A study reported at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no history of cardiovascular disease.

The findings revealed that healthy men on TRT did not have an elevated risk of heart attack, stroke, or death.

Additionally, a study featured in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings demonstrated no link 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 with other health matters presents a diverse outlook. Despite previous associations between TRT and heightened prostate cancer risk, a study detailed in the December 2015 Journal of Urology indicated that exposure to TRT for five years did not increase the likelihood of aggressive prostate cancer.

TRT’s long-term risks remain a question mark, given the limited follow-up in many studies. However, this shouldn’t discourage considering TRT as an option. It may still be appropriate for certain individuals.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

TRT prescription in Poway necessitates meeting two prerequisites: low testosterone levels (below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and experiencing various 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 standard blood test is commonly employed to measure testosterone levels. Given the fluctuations that can occur daily and the impact of medication and diet, multiple tests are required. Dr. Hayes states, “Around 30% of cases where the first testosterone test indicates low levels show normal levels upon repeated testing.”

Low testosterone levels and various symptoms don’t necessarily mean immediate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Dr. Hayes suggests, “By identifying the source of declining levels, we can often address it and naturally elevate low levels.”

Consider weight gain as an example, often the primary trigger for reduced levels. “Weight has a more significant impact on testosterone levels than aging. With an increase in weight, testosterone levels decline,” she points out. A five-point rise on the body mass index (BMI) scale, such as moving from 30 to 35, is comparable to adding 10 years to your age in terms of testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also consider any other factors that might affect levels, like medication or medical conditions,” recommends Dr. Hayes. In such situations, your doctor might address the root cause or adjust your medication or dosage to avoid impacting testosterone levels.

Men also need to understand the limitations of TRT, as it’s often portrayed as a wonder drug. “Its impact is typically not as transformative as many believe,” says Dr. Hayes.

As an example, sexual health and vitality are frequently highlighted as benefits of TRT. A study in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine explored the impact of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those administered TRT for a year, as opposed to those on a placebo, noticed enhancements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function. Nevertheless, the group experienced only a marginal improvement in mood and observed no alterations in walking speed, a measure of TRT’s effect on vitality.

Using TRT

TRT is commonly administered through gel or injection. The gel is applied daily, with a dose about the size of a ketchup packet, spread over the upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Each method has its 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,” advises Dr. Hayes.

Testosterone levels can increase significantly for a few days after an injection and then taper off, resulting in a roller-coaster effect where mood and energy levels peak and then diminish.

Symptom improvement is often seen within four to six weeks for most men in Poway, while muscle mass increases may need three to six months.

TRT doesn’t necessarily have to be lifelong. “If the factor that caused your testosterone to drop is resolved, you should try discontinuing the treatment and get re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.