TRT: Uses, Side Effects, and Cost of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

TRT: Uses, Side Effects, and Cost of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Yet the health benefits of testosterone therapy for age-related decline in testosterone aren’t clear. Considering testosterone therapy to help you feel younger and more vigorous as you age? Liver toxicity is a concern with certain forms of testosterone, such as oral testosterone undecanoate [36-37]. People with liver disease or those taking medications that affect liver function may require careful monitoring if they decide to take TRT. With continued testosterone replacement therapy, the effects of improving your bone density can last three years or longer before they plateau. Low testosterone levels can accelerate natural bone breakdown over bone formation which, left unchecked, can develop into osteopenia or, in more severe cases, osteoporosis. This medication works by reducing the conversion of testosterone to estrogen and can raise testosterone levels and reduce estrogen levels.

A smaller number may notice increased aggression or creatine phosphokinase test restlessness. These shifts are often a sign that the dosage may need adjusting or that the body is still stabilizing. Most of these side effects are mild and reversible when TRT is properly monitored. In Canada, clinics offering testosterone therapy typically include routine bloodwork and symptom tracking to ensure that any side effects are identified and addressed early. Many men begin to experience the positive effects of TRT within the first few weeks to 3 months. The timeline and extent of benefits vary based on factors like diet, exercise, and lifestyle.

Certain existing health conditions make TRT unsafe, like prostate cancer, breast cancer and heart failure. This is why healthcare providers do extensive evaluations and tests before approving the use of TRT. If you don’t have these health concerns, TRT is generally safe. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help improve the symptoms of low testosterone due to male hypogonadism. TRT has certain risks and benefits, so your healthcare provider will carefully evaluate if it’s safe and right for you.

Severe lower urinary tract symptoms include urinary frequency and urgency. These symptoms may be a sign of an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Oral testosterone is a less common type of TRT that is more expensive and less practical. Topical patches stick to the skin and stay in place for 24 hours until the next dose. They typically come in doses of between 2 milligrams (mg) and 5 mg.

When you are on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), it’s important to understand that your activity level and lifestyle can affect the amount of testosterone your body needs. Everyone is different, and many factors can influence the dosage you need. Two major factors are your physical activity level and lifestyle habits.

Metered-dose pump/applicator which dispenses 30 mg of testosterone in 1.5 cc solution per pump. The usual starting dose is 1 pump (about the size of 2 quarters) applied to each underarm daily. Testosterone is commonly administered once a week or once every two weeks, depending on the type of testosterone and patient preference. Men who carry excess weight around their midsection, for example, may have higher levels of an enzyme called aromatase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen. This can lower the overall level of testosterone available in the body, requiring a higher TRT dosage to compensate.

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a shot, patch, or gel of the hormone testosterone to bring the level back to normal. Testosterone is produced in your testes (testicles), the sex organs in men, and is responsible for masculine traits. Options available depend on the person’s medical needs and lifestyle/ People should discuss these with their healthcare practitioner prior to commencing treatment.

If other conditions or medications cause testosterone levels to drop, doctors usually treat the underlying condition before recommending TRT. Testosterone plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including muscle and bone health, cognition, red blood cell and sperm formation, and sexual and reproductive function in males. TRT—especially injectable testosterone and transdermal treatments to a lesser extent—also elevates your red blood cell count. Doctors don’t know exactly what this means to your health in the long or short term.

In Canada, more men are turning to TRT to regain their energy and confidence. But while the benefits of testosterone therapy can be significant, understanding the potential side effects is just as important as knowing the advantages. After three months, men typically report better energy, improved mood, and enhanced libido.