A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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Over the past decade, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has gained widespread acceptance in Rancho Cucamonga. Countless older men have opted for TRT to balance hormone levels, hoping to boost their energy and rejuvenate their sexual desire.

While TRT has become popular, it remains controversial because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, studies highlighted safety concerns by suggesting a possible association between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Dr. Frances Hayes of Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital notes that some of these studies had certain limitations.

“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 scientific findings have bolstered this stance. A study presented at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions included 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone levels and no history of cardiovascular disease.

Researchers discovered no increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men on TRT.

Research published in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no association 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.

Despite the limited follow-up in numerous studies, the long-term risks of TRT remain elusive. Nevertheless, it’s important not to dismiss TRT entirely. It might be a viable choice for certain men.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

To receive a prescription for TRT in Rancho Cucamonga, you must meet two criteria: low testosterone levels (less than 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and the presence of several symptoms (see page 7). Dr. Hayes explains, “Although it’s possible to have low levels without symptoms, if key symptoms such as fatigue and sexual dysfunction are absent, starting TRT isn’t recommended due to ongoing uncertainties about its long-term safety.”

Testosterone levels are typically determined through a standard blood test. Due to their daily fluctuations and susceptibility to medication and diet, multiple tests are essential. Dr. Hayes states, “Around 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test shows low levels, subsequent tests reveal normal levels.”

Low testosterone levels and multiple symptoms don’t necessarily indicate immediate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). According to Dr. Hayes, “Understanding the cause behind declining levels allows us to address it and naturally enhance 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 additional factors that may influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” suggests Dr. Hayes. In these cases, your doctor may address the underlying issue or modify your medication or dosage to prevent affecting testosterone levels.

It’s important for men to realize the constraints of TRT, as it’s commonly portrayed as a wonder drug. “Its effects are typically not as impressive as men might hope,” Dr. Hayes remarks.

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.

Using TRT

TRT is commonly administered via 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 administered into the buttocks every two weeks.

Both methods have their pros. Gels result in consistent testosterone levels. “But you need to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, particularly with women, since testosterone might cause acne or hair growth,” says Dr. Hayes.

With injections, testosterone levels can reach high levels for several days and then slowly decrease, creating a roller-coaster effect where mood and energy levels initially rise and then fall.

Most men in Rancho Cucamonga notice symptom relief within four to six weeks, but muscle mass changes may require three to six months.

TRT may not be needed for life. “If the underlying issue that caused your testosterone levels to drop is resolved, you should have a trial period off treatment and be re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.