A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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Over the last ten years, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has become widely popular in Roseville. Many older men have adopted TRT to normalize their hormone levels, seeking to enhance their energy and revive their sex drive.

TRT remains a controversial topic due to its uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, concerns about its safety arose when studies suggested a possible association between TRT and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

According to Dr. Frances Hayes from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, 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

Current research has corroborated 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 heart disease.

According to researchers, TRT did not increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death among healthy men.

Research from 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 unclear. Nevertheless, it’s important not to rule out 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 Roseville, 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.”

Measuring testosterone levels usually involves a standard blood test. Since these levels can fluctuate daily and are influenced by medication and diet, multiple tests are needed. Dr. Hayes points out, “In about 30% of cases with an initial low testosterone test, subsequent tests reveal normal levels.”

Despite having low testosterone levels and exhibiting multiple symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) might not be the immediate approach. Dr. Hayes advises, “Pinpointing the cause of declining levels enables us to tackle it and naturally boost low levels.”

Take weight gain, for instance, often the top cause of decreasing levels. “Weight exerts a greater influence on testosterone levels than aging. As weight goes up, testosterone levels go down,” she emphasizes. A five-point increase on the body mass index (BMI) scale, like progressing from 30 to 35, equates to adding 10 years to your age concerning testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also examine any additional factors that could influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” suggests Dr. Hayes. In these cases, your doctor may manage the underlying issue or modify your medication or dosage to prevent affecting testosterone levels.

Men should be aware of the boundaries of TRT, as it’s commonly thought of as a cure-all. “Its effects are often not as remarkable as men perceive,” Dr. Hayes explains.

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 often delivered by gel application or injection. With a gel, you apply the daily dose, similar to the size of a ketchup packet, to both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are administered into the buttocks once every two weeks.

Each approach has its advantages. Gels result in steadier testosterone levels. “However, it’s crucial to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, since testosterone can cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes points out.

With injections, testosterone levels can peak for several days and then gradually decline. This can create a roller-coaster effect, causing mood and energy levels to spike and then trail off.

Most men in Roseville start feeling better within four to six weeks, though changes in muscle mass can take three to six months.

TRT may not be a permanent requirement. “If the cause of your low testosterone levels is resolved, you should attempt a trial off the treatment and have your doctor re-evaluate you,” says Dr. Hayes.