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Although TRT is widely employed, it continues to be a controversial topic because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Previous studies indicated a possible connection between TRT and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, leading to safety worries.
Dr. Frances Hayes, a Reproductive Endocrinologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, affiliated with Harvard, observes 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
In the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings, further findings demonstrated 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.
The link between TRT and other health issues is inconsistent. While previous studies associated TRT with a higher risk of prostate cancer, 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 warrants further investigation into TRT’s long-term effects.
The long-term risks of TRT remain uncertain due to limited follow-up in numerous studies. Still, individuals should consider TRT as a potential solution, as it may be appropriate for specific cases.
Who Is a Candidate For TRT In Redwood City?
Testosterone levels are typically measured using a standard blood test. Due to daily fluctuations and the impact 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.”
Low testosterone levels and various symptoms don’t always necessitate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) as the immediate solution. Dr. Hayes suggests “By understanding the underlying cause of declining levels, we can address it and naturally enhance low levels.”
As an example, 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,” suggests Dr. Hayes. In such cases, your doctor may tackle the root cause or adjust your medication or dosage to sidestep influencing testosterone levels.
It’s important for men to recognize the limitations of TRT, often touted as a quick fix. “Its outcomes are typically not as astounding as men expect,” Dr. Hayes observes.
This is illustrated by the frequent focus on sexual health and vitality as advantages of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). A study outlined in the February 18, 2016 edition of The New England Journal of Medicine investigated how TRT affected 790 men aged 65 and older. Participants who underwent TRT for one year, compared to those given a placebo, experienced enhancements in sexual function, such as activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group observed only a slight improvement in mood and detected no changes in walking speed, a measure of TRT’s impact on vitality.
Using TRT
Both approaches provide unique benefits, with gels maintaining consistent 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.
After receiving an injection, testosterone levels might briefly peak before tapering off, causing mood and energy variations resembling a roller-coaster.
In Redwood City, many men usually experience symptom relief within four to six weeks, with changes in muscle mass potentially taking three to six months.
It’s important to understand that TRT isn’t always 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.