Testosterone Replacement Therapy Side Effects
Introduction
Testosterone impacts male body composition, sexual function, mood, and mental sharpness. While levels fluctuate mildly throughout the day and diminish a bit with age, a significant drop is never normal. Low testosterone levels can negatively impact men’s performance at work, as well as their sense of self and overall wellness.
Fortunately, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a time-tested and proven intervention that can stabilize hormone levels and help men regain their vitality.
Once a patient is diagnosed with low testosterone, doctors can use one of several forms of TRT to increase and maintain their testosterone levels. The best option to use will depend on the man, the nature of his symptoms, and the extent of his hormone loss.
This article covers the benefits of TRT and its potential side effects. Familiarizing yourself with them will prepare you to discuss your options with a qualified doctor.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
TRT is a medical intervention in which doctors introduce outside testosterone to a man's body. Once the hormone enters the bloodstream, the body uses it the same way it uses naturally produced testosterone. Doctors determine the appropriate dose of testosterone based on the extent of the patient’s hormone loss and the nature of his symptoms.
Testosterone injections administered by a doctor or nurse into the gluteal muscle are the most common form of TRT. Usually, patients need weekly or biweekly injections, which temporarily boost testosterone.
Doctors can also prescribe gels or patches. These topical forms of TRT release the hormone into the bloodstream through the skin. Patients apply the gel or patch daily. These forms of TRT also stabilize patients’ hormone levels. If you go this route, you will apply the gel or patch to your shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen. It is essential to prevent the gel from being inadvertently wiped away.
You can also have testosterone pellets implanted beneath your skin. The implant releases the hormone into the bloodstream, usually for three to six months, before it fully depletes. Your doctor will then remove and replace it.
What Makes a Good Candidate for Testosterone Therapy?
Every man has different baseline hormone levels and health. These differences make diagnosing low testosterone specific to each man. Monitoring yourself for changes in how you feel emotionally and physically is critical. Shifts in mood or body composition can be early signs of hormone loss.
Virtually any man with low testosterone levels and one or more symptoms of hormone loss is a good candidate for TRT. Doctors can assess your testosterone level with a simple blood test and a straightforward discussion of your condition.
Symptoms of low testosterone include:
Diminished or absent sex drive
Erectile dysfunction
Loss of vitality characterized by fatigue, sleepiness, and a general malaise
A decrease in muscle mass and an increase in body fat, especially around the midsection
Thinning or hair loss on the head and body
Mood changes, including increased irritability or depressed feelings
Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or mental fogginess
Many of these symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying health condition, making it even more important not to overlook the signs of testosterone loss. The best way to assess your candidacy is by speaking with a qualified physician. Being open and honest about your emotional and physical wellness will help with diagnosis and treatment planning.
Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
The benefits of TRT depend on the extent of hormone loss and the nature of your symptoms. The effects may develop rapidly and fully manifest over time as levels stabilize. TRT can raise interest in sex and libido. It may also improve the quality and duration of erections if erectile dysfunction results from hormone loss.
Many men experience a revitalization in which they regain stamina and energy. This sense of renewal can improve both work and home life. Enhanced vigor can help with exercise and other activities, compounding their positive benefits.
Raising testosterone levels can also reshape your body, enabling you to regain muscle mass and lose belly fat when combined with proper diet and exercise.
For some men, TRT helps to stabilize their mood, easing stress, irritation, and depression symptoms. It can also enhance focus and mental sharpness, helping performance at work.
Your doctor can help you set realistic expectations for how TRT can impact your symptoms because every case is different.
Risks and Side Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
All treatments carry risks and the chance of side effects. The best way to manage and prevent complications is by being open and upfront with your doctor. Certain health conditions, including heart, kidney, and liver disease, may contraindicate TRT. Men with a history of cancer should talk with their doctor and oncologist before starting TRT.
Side effects may include acne, oily skin, sleep apnea, lowered sperm count, shrunken testicles, and swelling in the hands and legs. The likelihood varies by the individual, dose, and form of TRT.
Potentially serious side effects include chest pain and breathing difficulty. TRT may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and pulmonary embolism.
Doctors debate the extent and nature of TRT risks because many available studies feature limited data or assessed patients with significant comorbidities. In addition, TRT is more common among older men, who carry a higher risk of conditions like heart attack and stroke.
Conclusion
TRT is generally safe as long as it is recommended and administered by a doctor. It’s never advisable to use TRT obtained from a gym, a spa, or an online vendor. Only trained physicians such as those at Iron Mountain are qualified to diagnose low testosterone and prescribe TRT.
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May 22, 2023
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Avidon Appel
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