TRT is a short form of testosterone replacement therapy, sometimes called androgen replacement therapy. It mainly treats low testosterone (T) levels, which can happen with age or due to a medical condition.
However, you will find various options if you are looking for Testosterone Replacement Therapy in West chester.
But it’s becoming increasingly popular for non-medical uses, including:
- enhancing sexual performance
- achieving higher energy levels
- building muscle mass for bodybuilding
Research suggests that Testosterone Replacement Therapy may help you achieve some of these goals. But there are some caveats. Let’s dip into what precisely happens to your T levels as you age and what you can realistically anticipate from TRT.
Why does T decrease with age?
Your body naturally makes less T as you age. According to an article in American Family Physician, the typical male’s T production goes down by about 1 to 2 percent each year.
This is all part of a natural process that begins in your late 20s or early 30s:
- As you age, your testicles make less T.
- Lowered testicular T drives your hypothalamus to make less gonadotropin-releasing hormone
- Lowered GnRH induces your pituitary gland to make less luteinizing hormone.
- Decreased LH results in reduced overall T production.
This gradual decrease in T often doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms. But a substantial drop in T levels may cause:
- low sex drive
- fewer spontaneous erections
- erectile dysfunction
- lowered sperm count or volume
- trouble sleeping
- unusual loss of muscle and bone density
- unexplained weight gain
Signs that you have Low T
The only way to know whether you have low T is by seeing a healthcare provider for a testosterone level test. This is an easy blood test; most providers require it before specifying Testosterone Replacement Therapy.
You may need to do the test many times because T levels are influenced by various factors, such as:
- diet
- level of fitness
- time of day the test is done
- certain medications, like anticonvulsants and steroids
How is Testosterone Replacement Therapy administered?
There are several ways to do TRT. Your most suitable option will rely on your medical needs and your lifestyle. Some methods need daily administration, while others only need to be accomplished every month.
TRT methods include:
- oral medications
- intramuscular injections
- transdermal patches
- topical creams
A form of TRT also concerns rubbing testosterone on your gums twice daily.
How much does TRT cost?
The costs of TRT change depending on what type you’re prescribed. You likely won’t pay the full fee if you have health insurance and need TRT to treat a health condition. The actual price may also vary based on your location and whether there’s a generic version available.
Generally, you can spend anywhere from $20 to $1,000 monthly. The actual cost relies on a scope of factors, including:
- your location
- type of medication
- administration method
- whether there’s a generic version available
When considering the cost, remember that TRT boosts your T levels. It won’t treat the underlying reason for your low T, so that you may need life-long treatment.
What are the non-medical uses of TRT?
Many countries, including the United States, don’t allow people to purchase T supplements for TRT without a prescription legally.
Although TRT primarily treats medical conditions, some individuals seek it out for non-medical reasons. These reasons may vary and include personal preferences or lifestyle choices.
- losing weight
- increasing energy levels
- boosting sexual drive or performance
- raising endurance for athletic activities
- gaining extra muscle mass for bodybuilding
Are there any risks linked to TRT?
Experts are still trying to understand TRT’s risks and side effects fully. According to the study, many existing studies have limitations, such as being small or using larger-than-usual doses of T.
As a result, there’s still some discussion over the advantages and risks linked to TRT. For example, it’s been said to increase and decrease the risk of certain types of cancer.
An article in the Therapeutic Advances in Urology journal suggests that some conflicting views result from overzealous media coverage, especially in the United States.
Before trying TRT, it’s essential to sit down with your healthcare provider and review the potential side effects and risks. These may include:
- chest pain
- difficulty breathing
- speech difficulties
- low sperm count
- polycythemia vera
- lowered cholesterol
- heart attack
- swelling in the hands or legs
- stroke
- benign prostatic hyperplasia
- sleep apnea
- acne
- deep vein thrombosis
- Pulmonary embolism
The bottom line
Testosterone Replacement Therapy has long been a treatment choice for people with hypogonadism or conditions linked with reduced T production. But its benefits for those without an underlying disease aren’t as clear, despite all the hype.
Consult your doctor before you take any T supplements or medications. They can assist you in determining whether your plans with TRT are secure and realistic.
It’s also necessary to be observed by a medical professional as you take T supplements to note any undesirable symptoms or side effects that may appear during treatment.