Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Testosterone is a sex hormone that is produced by the testes. Although testosterone levels are more prevalent in males, females also naturally produce the hormone through the ovaries. The production of the hormone is regulated by both the hypothalamus and pituitary glands. The hormone is a vital component for sexual development, muscle growth, bone density, fat distribution, mood, and energy.

Like most hormones, testosterone is secreted into the bloodstream, where it is able to affect numerous areas of the body by acting on androgen receptors on cells. In linking up with a cell’s androgen receptor, the hormone is able to affect the cell, no matter if it is a neuron, bone, muscle or fat cell. Within a couple days, the cell will change in order to provide the necessary effect. Testosterone levels are subject to change throughout the day and vary from individual to individual.

Individuals who are experiencing decreased energy, increased central body fat, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, anxiety, poor concentration, and decreased strength may be suffering from low testosterone. Although these symptoms are frequently associated with Low Testosterone, it is possible that they are caused from another medical matter. Therefore it is imperative to have your testosterone levels checked prior to undergoing any sort of treatment for low testosterone.

Testosterone levels can be measured by a blood test. Normal total testosterone levels are generally considered to range from 300 ng/dL to 1000 ng/dL.

Although there are a variety of causes for Low Testosterone, they are generally divided into two categories: primary deficiency and secondary causes. Primary deficiency is associated with a problem with the testes, whereas secondary causes stem from a problem outside the testicles that is prohibiting normal hormone production.

Primary disorders include the following:

• Chromosomal abnormality
• Undescended testis
• Prior mumps infection
• Cancer treatment
• Other causes of injury to the testicle itself

Secondary causes include:

• Hypothalamic or pituitary disorder
• Medications
• Concurrent illness
• Inflammatory disease

Many studies have shown that testosterone levels decline with age in most men. How exactly this decline happens is still unclear. If a patient is diagnosed with hypogonadism, or low testosterone, it is important to rule out other medical causes such as illness. According to the FDA, the benefits and safety of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) used in attempts to relieve symptoms in men who have low testosterone for no apparent reason other than aging have not been established.

When T levels drop below normal, the brain typically triggers a signal to the testes to increase production. However, derangements in the body’s physiology due to the above causes can alter this normal pathway. Recent studies have shown a link between Low Testosterone and cardiovascular disease, increased mortality, anemia, diabetes, and depression. Additionally, these studies have shown individuals that have gone through testosterone replacement therapy have either improved or reversed many of these risks.

In many clinical studies, testosterone therapy has proven to reduce body fat, improve diabetes, protect against atherosclerosis, and improve bone density. Additionally, restoring testosterone to a normal level has shown to decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. Subjects exposed to therapy may also see improvements in cognitive function, anxiety, mood, and protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

However, it is important to note that each patient is different and that results from testosterone replacement therapy are not guaranteed.

Unfortunately, due to the biology of the testosterone molecule, pills and tablets may cause liver damage. Currently, there is no FDA-approved, safe testosterone tablet or pill. This has resulted in the development of creative ways to get testosterone safely into the body, such as patches, gels, subcutaneous implants, and injections.

Patches and gels allow for the absorption of testosterone molecules through the skin. However, there is variable absorption in each patient, and it may be difficult to achieve target levels. Additionally, these methods can be “messy” and require contact precautions around children and other individuals. Subcutaneous implants require a minor surgery to insert the pellet under the skin, and it becomes difficult to adjust dosages. Injections require a higher frequency of treatment, but the dosages can be finely adjusted to achieve target levels.

Many individuals strongly associate testosterone with people seeking to enhance muscle growth or improve athletic ability. Unfortunately, this hormone has gained a poor reputation for this reason. If diagnosed, administered, and monitored correctly, individuals with Low Testosterone may see a substantial change in their overall health. A significant majority of scientific data demonstrates that testosterone replacement therapy is safe when administered correctly by a health professional.

Testosterone has shown to increase red blood cell count, which thickens the blood and may lead to clots. Other risks associated with testosterone include pulmonary embolisms, heart attacks, and strokes. Titan T-Center & Weight Loss pays close attention to red blood cell numbers and takes appropriate measures to ensure that the count stays in the normal range. For more information concerning heart risk, we invite you to read our blog on the testosterone levels and cardiovascular risk.

Furthermore, we advise all patients to take a look at the latest FDA ruling, in which the FDA has concluded that there is a possible increased cardiovascular risk associated with testosterone use.

This idea was originally developed circa 1941 and has since been debunked through many scientific studies. A scientific review has shown that there is no conclusive evidence of increased risk of prostate cancer with testosterone therapy, and early data shows that testosterone therapy is not contraindicated in men with a history of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia. However, it is important to consult with your provider at Titan T-Center & Weight Loss, and to have an in-depth conversation about the relationship of prostate cancer and testosterone replacement therapy in your individual circumstances.

Titan T-Center & Weight Loss exclusively provides testosterone injections to our patients because they are significantly safer and more effective than other forms of treatment. For patients who experience severe levels of fatigue on a regular basis due to B12 deficiency, we happily provide B12 injections. Finally, HCG or human chorionic gonadotropin may be administered after the first month’s treatment to stimulate the testes and prohibit testicular atrophy. For more information, please call or contact us!

Your levels of testosterone will go back to pre-treatment levels, or possibly below pre-treatment levels. Just like most medications, the body “uses” the testosterone, thereby requiring regular dosages. However, the effects of testosterone therapy, such as increased bone density and lean body mass, may linger for weeks or months.

Testosterone replacement therapy and laboratory testing is covered by many insurance carriers, although you should check the terms of your current plan to be sure. Titan T-Center does not accept Medicare or Medicaid at this time. We offer flexible cash payment plans for patients paying out-of-pocket.