FDA-approved testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for men with low testosterone and a medical condition. Due to an aging population, late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), which requires TRT, has become more common.

Late-onset hypogonadism is a clinical and biochemical disease in which the testes generate less testosterone. Men with LOH can have an increase in body fat, depression, decreased libido, a decrease in muscle mass and strength, and a decrease in bone density that can lead to osteoporosis.

According to Immortal Male, TRT restores blood testosterone levels to an age-appropriate physiological range and improves symptoms in hypogonadal males. TRT can be administered intramuscularly, transdermally, nasally, buccally, or subcutaneously. TRT has a spectrum of good and harmful effects, which should be conveyed to patients.

TRT Advantages

TRT can increase testosterone levels, which has health advantages.

Cardiac Health Research links testosterone levels to cardiovascular illness. Men with low testosterone were twice as likely to die from cardiovascular disease, according to a 17-year study of 3,518 men.

In middle-aged individuals, greater testosterone levels were connected to favorable cardiovascular health profiles, high HDL cholesterol, low insulin, systolic blood pressure, and triglycerides.

Based on this research, men with low testosterone may be more prone to cardiovascular issues and may benefit from TRT.

Muscle Growth

Low serum testosterone can reduce muscle mass and strength, affecting mobility. TRT reversed some of the effects in hypogonadal males, according to research. Increased lipid oxidation and muscular hypertrophy improved lean body mass. Patients with restricted mobility said these impacts improved their quality of life.

Low testosterone levels are linked to mood disorders including depression in elderly men. Two-thirds of men with treatment-resistant depression had insufficient testosterone, according to research. Men with testosterone insufficiency exhibited greater depressed symptom ratings, especially anxiety. TRT may reduce the prevalence or severity of mood disorders such as depression in men with low testosterone.

TRT Risks

TRT may have detrimental consequences, according to research.

Prostate Effects

TRT may harm the prostate. The prostate is androgen-dependent. Anti-androgen drugs can reduce the prostate volume in BPH patients.

Numerous research has examined the effects of testosterone on BPH patients.

A prostate cancer diagnosis or history is generally a contraindication for TRT, as testosterone stimulates prostate tumor development. Some prostate cancer treatments reduce testosterone levels. Since key research on castration’s influence on prostate cancer, there have been fears that exogenous testosterone might cause prostate cancer and growth. Studies reveal testosterone worsens cancer development and symptoms.

Dermatology

Increased testosterone levels are linked to increased sebum production, which can cause acne. Up to 60% of persons using intramuscular and topical testosterone may also develop pruritus and erythema.

Pain, Enlargement

TRT users may experience bodily and exterior changes. Exogenous testosterone can cause an imbalance in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, resulting in testosterone aromatization. Excess estrogen might cause breast discomfort or gynecomastia.

Hepatitis

Endogenous testosterone is linked to hepatic disorders. TRT increases the risk of hepatic failure, hepatotoxicity, intrahepatic cholestasis, and malignant and benign liver disease.

TRT increases testosterone levels in men, which offers several health advantages. Medical professionals should monitor for and discuss unpleasant consequences with patients.