Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) FAQs

 Testosterone is an important hormone that plays a crucial role in maintaining various bodily functions, including muscle mass, bone density, energy levels, mood, and sex drive. As we age, testosterone levels tend to decline, which can lead to a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, loss of muscle mass, and reduced bone density. 

 By optimizing your testosterone levels, you can experience numerous benefits such as increased energy, improved mood, enhanced cognitive function, better muscle tone and strength, increased bone density, and a higher sex drive. Testosterone optimization can also help reduce the risk of certain health conditions such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes. 

1. Decreased sex drive: Low testosterone levels can cause a decrease in libido or sex drive, which can lead to reduced sexual activity and performance.
2. Erectile dysfunction: Testosterone is important for achieving and maintaining an erection, so low testosterone levels can lead to difficulty getting or keeping an erection.
3. Fatigue: Low testosterone levels can cause fatigue or a lack of energy, which can make it difficult to get through the day or engage in physical activities.
4. Loss of muscle mass: Testosterone is important for building and maintaining muscle mass, so low testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and strength.
5. Increased body fat: Low testosterone levels can cause an increase in body fat, particularly in the belly area.
6. Decreased bone density: Testosterone is important for bone health, so low testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis.
7. Mood changes: Low testosterone levels can lead to mood changes, such as depression, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
8. Decreased body hair: Testosterone is important for the growth of body hair, so low testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in body hair or facial hair.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to get your testosterone levels checked. 

TRT can have side effects, including acne, breast enlargement, decreased sperm count, and increased risk of blood clots. However, these risks can be minimized with proper monitoring by a practitioner who specializes in hormone replacement therapy.

 In addition to TRT, lifestyle changes such as exercise, weight loss, and a healthy diet can help improve testosterone levels. Reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also help support overall health and hormone balance.

• Prostate cancer
• Uncontrolled heart failure
• Myocardial infarction or cerebrovascular accident within the past six months
• Untreated obstructive sleep apnea
• Men planning fertility
• An elevated PSA above 3 ng/mL without a urology clearance
• Men < 24 years old

The duration of TRT depends on the individual's specific medical needs and goals, and it may not be necessary for everyone to stay on TRT indefinitely.

In some cases, TRT may be a temporary treatment to address a specific medical condition or to help an individual recover from an injury or surgery. Once the underlying issue is resolved, a doctor may recommend stopping TRT.

However, for men who have low levels of testosterone due to a medical condition or natural aging, TRT may need to be continued for the long term. In these cases, stopping TRT may cause a return of symptoms related to low testosterone, such as fatigue, decreased libido, and decreased muscle mass.

It is important to note that TRT should always be prescribed and monitored by a qualified medical professional, and any decisions about discontinuing the treatment should be made in consultation with a provider.