Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a treatment for men with low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism. Symptoms of hypogonadism can include decreased libido, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass. To qualify for TRT, you need to have low serum testosterone levels (below 300 to 350 ng/dL) on two separate morning tests and show symptoms of hypogonadism. TRT comes in different forms, such as topical gels and intramuscular injections, and the choice depends on factors like cost and your preference.
While TRT can effectively improve symptoms and enhance quality of life, it requires careful selection, shared decision-making with your doctor, and close monitoring due to potential risks. Studies have shown that TRT can help improve symptoms and quality of life in men with low testosterone levels, but there are concerns about possible cardiovascular risks and long-term safety. Guidelines for TRT emphasize the need for personalized treatment plans and following clinical recommendations to avoid misuse. Despite some controversies, TRT is a commonly used treatment for hypogonadism, with ongoing research to better understand its benefits and risks.
Further Reading:
- Snow, L. (2023). Hormone Therapy: Testosterone Replacement Therapy. FP Essentials, 531, 7–14. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37603880/
- Park, H., Ahn, S., & Moon, D. (2019). Evolution of Guidelines for Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 8(3), 410. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm8030410
- Skiba, R., Rymarz, A., Matyjek, A., Dymus, J., Woźniak-Kosek, A., Syryło, T., Zieliński, H., & Niemczyk, S. (2022). Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients. Nutrients, 14(16), 3444. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163444