Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT therapy) helps boost testosterone levels and reverse common symptoms of low T, such as fatigue, reduced sex drive, and muscle loss. In many cases, TRT Therapy can also improve mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.
Men on TRT should have regular PSA blood tests and a pelvic ultrasound to check for prostate cancer. They should also have a yearly bone density scan.
Benefits
TRT can significantly improve your quality of life by boosting energy, mood, muscle mass, and sexual function. It can also help you sleep better and manage your weight. It can even lower your risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before beginning treatment. TRT is typically a lifetime commitment, and you’ll need to visit your doctor regularly to monitor blood testosterone levels.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can increase the number of red blood cells, which can thicken your blood and cause blood clots in your legs or lungs. This condition is known as polycythemia. It is often treated with phlebotomy and a low-sodium diet.
A study published in 2015 found that men who take TRT have a 30% lower rate of heart attack and stroke than those who don’t. However, more studies are needed to confirm this result. It’s also important to check your PSA (marker of prostate health) and hematocrit levels regularly while taking TRT.
Side effects
Testosterone is a vital hormone that plays a role in many bodily functions, including muscle and bone health, cognition and red blood cell production. It is also responsible for male sexual characteristics. The body can’t produce enough of it naturally as it ages, so doctors prescribe TRT to help restore normal testosterone levels. TRT is available in a number of forms, including pills, gels and patches. Some types can be easily absorbed through the skin, while others may cause irritation or not work at all.
A common side effect of TRT is an increase in red blood cell count, which can lead to a higher risk of heart-related problems. However, this hasn’t been shown to be a problem in most studies, and it can be managed by having regular blood donations (phlebotomy).
Other potential risks include prostate cancer, worsening of benign prostatic hyperplasia, polycythemia, and an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Depending on your current health status, you should discuss TRT with your doctor before starting it.
Costs
Testosterone replacement therapy is a popular treatment option for men with low testosterone levels. However, it can be expensive. The costs of TRT vary depending on the type of treatment and its method of administration. Fortunately, most insurance plans cover this type of medication, and there are many generic options available that can reduce your cost. Keep in mind that TRT only boosts your natural testosterone levels; it does not treat the underlying condition causing them to be low.
If you’re considering pursuing TRT, make sure to choose an experienced clinic near me with certified doctors. The best clinics will offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your symptoms. They will also work with your health insurance to help you minimize out-of-pocket expenses. In addition, most TRT clinics in Arizona also offer peptide therapy, which can enhance your results and boost muscle growth. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that promote hormone production and support tissue repair.
Long-term effects
Testosterone replacement therapy is a safe treatment for some people. However, it’s unsuitable for those with certain existing health conditions like cancer or heart failure. Also, people with severe obstructive sleep apnea might need to be careful about their dosage.
Some concerns have been raised about testosterone’s long-term effects, including an increased risk of prostate cancer, worsening symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, elevated levels of PSA (prostate specific antigen), liver toxicity, and erythrocytosis. However, most studies have found that these risks are minimal for healthy men.
A recent meta-analysis found that men with prior TRT use did not have a higher rate of prostate cancer than those without it. TRT also doesn’t appear to increase the likelihood of a recurrence of prostate cancer after surgery, which is good news for those who have been treated. In addition, a 2019 study showed that TRT improves cognitive function and attention span. It can also prevent venous thromboembolism, a type of blood clot that may cause heart attacks or stroke.