FAQs - Testosterone Replacement Therapy

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is the predominant male hormone and is responsible for the normal growth and development of the male sex organs, bone density, muscle mass, and is essential for health and well-being in men, Testosterone is produced in the testes, the reproductive glands that also produce sperm.

The amount of testosterone produced by the testes is regulated by the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland.

Testosterone effects the following: 

• Growth and maturation of prostate and other male sex organs
• Changes in body muscle mass and strength and fat distribution
• Sex drive (libido)
• Mood and energy level
• Bone density and muscle mass

What are 'Normal Levels' of Testosterone?

In healthy men, testosterone levels between 350 ng/dL and 1,000 ng/dL are referred to as normal. Normal physiology allows the brain and the testes to work together to keep testosterone in this range.

The brain produces “signal” hormones that are responsible for stimulating testosterone production. These “signals” are periodically released, which in turn stimulates testosterone production. When levels of testosterone are in an acceptable range, the production of the “signal” hormones is slowed, which in turn allows the testosterone levels to decrease.

What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

Testosterone Replacement Therapy is the practice of diagnosing a person with low levels of testosterone and treating with injections, gels, patches, surgically implanted pellets or through oral applications. At our clinic, we use injection therapy to treat low testosterone in eligible patients.

What are the benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy vary based upon the pre-therapy symptoms and other factors, but can include:

• Increased energy
• Decreased irritability and depression
• Improved muscle mass and strength
• Improved sexual desire
• Improved visuospatial cognitive function and verbal memory
• Higher motivation
• Decreased body fat (optimal results received through accompaniment of a diligent diet and exercise regimen)
• Possible improvement in erectile function

How do you determine if I have low testosterone?

To determine testosterone levels, our team will perform a simple blood test, the results of which you will know within a few days.

If your total or free testosterone are not within the normal range, you may be a candidate for treatment. Determining whether a patient is the right candidate for testosterone therapy is evaluated on a case by case basis by the medical professionals in conference with the patient.

What are the risks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?

Although rare, there are some risks with Testosterone ReplacementTherapy (TRT). Some patients could experience the following side effects:

• TRT increases the volume of your prostate gland. To date, there have not been any studies showing that TRT increases the risk of prostate cancer. However, there is some theoretical concern because prostate cancer is treated by blocking testosterone. We should assume that the long term risk at this point is uncertain. If you have an enlarged prostate, referred to as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), testosterone may worsen your symptoms, particularly if you are more than 50 years of age. If you have a history of prostate cancer, you cannot receive TRT.
• Infertility – This is common particularly in young men, but usually reversible after stopping TRT.
• Sleep Apnea – This is a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep. Although uncommon, it is a reported side effect.
• Fluid Retention – Although uncommon, you must use caution if you have a history of heart failure or kidney disease.
• Acne, oily skin, increased body hair and flushing have also been reported.
• Increased blood pressure.

What are the advantages of testosterone injections versus other replacement methods such as patches or gels?

The proper method of testosterone delivery for you is a matter for your physician to determine; however, many find that some gels tend to be messy and less convenient than other treatment modalities.

In addition, there can be a risk of unintentional transmittal to children or others with whom you may have physical contact with the use of gels. Testosterone patches can create a significant rash at the site of application, or do not stick well, especially in the summer months. Experience has shown that gels and patches may require dosage adjustments to obtain medically appropriate blood concentrations and some patients may never absorb enough testosterone from gels or patches to improve symptoms. These modalities often have a higher conversion to less desirable hormones in the process of transfer through the skin. We employ testosterone injections because of their clinical effectiveness and convenience.

If I don’t treat my low testosterone what will happen?

Your testosterone levels will likely continue to decline over time and the severity of your symptoms will most likely continue to increase.

How does the process work for a typical patient?

The team at Regenerative & Sports Medicine offers a quick and easy way to diagnose and treat low testosterone.

During your initial consultation we will conduct a simple blood test, the results of which will be available within a few days. If your blood results indicate your testosterone levels are below clinically acceptable, our team will discuss your individual treatment options during your follow-up visit and if you decide to begin therapy, you will receive your first injection.

You will then return every 7-9 days to receive your booster injection. Each subsequent visit takes about 10-15 minutes.