Low Testosterone
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
​Research continues to show that men are suffering from a decline in testosterone levels decade over decade. This decline in testosterone over the years is thought to be multifactorial and includes chemical exposures, obesity, metabolic syndrome, sedentary lifestyle, stress, diet, and age. The average total testosterone value varies by age and falls between 250ng/dl - 1100ng/dl. Many men who have this checked in a clinical setting may be told they have a "normal value" despite having symptoms. In fact, most men who have symptoms may fall in the normal range, but still present with many of the symptoms of low testosterone. Men who have testosterone in the normal range (and below normal) may benefit from a supervised treatment plan to restore the body to optimal values. We are proud to offer these services in person at our Hagerstown, MD location and by telehealth to anyone in MD, VA, PA, WV and DE.
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What are the symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Decreased libido: One of the hallmark symptoms of low testosterone is a reduced interest in sexual activity or a decline in sexual desire.
​Erectile dysfunction: Men with low testosterone levels may experience difficulty achieving or maintaining erections, impacting their sexual performance and confidence.
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Fatigue and low energy levels: Chronic fatigue, decreased energy, and a general sense of lethargy are common complaints among individuals with low testosterone.
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Loss of muscle mass: Testosterone plays a vital role in muscle development and maintenance. Men with low testosterone may experience a decrease in muscle mass, accompanied by increased body fat.
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Mood changes: Low testosterone levels can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and feelings of depression or anxiety.
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Decreased bone density: Testosterone is essential for maintaining bone health. Low levels of testosterone can lead to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
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Reduced hair growth: Men with low testosterone may notice a decrease in facial and body hair growth, as testosterone is involved in the stimulation of hair follicles.
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Cognitive difficulties: Some individuals may experience difficulties with concentration, memory problems, and overall cognitive function due to low testosterone levels.
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Sleep disturbances: Low testosterone can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or other sleep-related issues.
What are the benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Restoring Quality of Life: Testosterone replacement therapy aims to restore testosterone levels to normal range, alleviating symptoms and improving overall quality of life for men suffering from hypogonadism
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Improving Sexual Function: TRT can help improve libido, erectile function, and overall sexual satisfaction, enhancing intimacy and relationship dynamics.
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Boosting Energy and Vitality: By replenishing testosterone levels, TRT can alleviate fatigue and boost energy levels, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with renewed vigor and enthusiasm.
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Preserving Muscle Mass and Bone Health: Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle mass and bone density. TRT helps preserve lean muscle mass and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
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Enhancing Mood and Mental Well-being: Balancing testosterone levels can improve mood stability, reduce irritability, and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, promoting better mental health.
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Supporting Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest that TRT may have a positive impact on cognitive function, including memory, concentration, and overall cognitive performance.
What types of Therapy exist to treat Low Testosterone?
Oral Medication: One of the newer delivery systems for testosterone. It is very expensive, can be hepatotoxic (toxic to the liver) and has varying degree of control and efficacy. For these reasons we do not recommend the use of oral medications for testosterone replacement.
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Commercial Topical Applications/Roll-On: This is a gel that is applied to the body and is absorbed through the skin. There are various commercial grade products that exist but these products are suspended in a hydro alcoholic gel and often do not prove effective. We do not recommend the use of gels or roll on applicators for lack of control and efficacy.
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Pellets: Pellets are implanted under the skin and release a set amount of hormone over time. Due to the nature of how this system works and varying absorption rates among individuals it offers almost no control over testosterone levels. Therefore, does not allow for any customization to occur due to the long lasting nature of pellets. For this reason we also do not recommend this option but there are rare scenarios that may warrant consideration for use. Please note, we do not perform pellet injections at our clinic.
Injections: There are many injectable products that exist in various forms. You may have seen names like Cypionate, Enanthate, Propionate, and Undecanoate to name a few. These names refer to the esters created that control the rate of absorption into the body. We readily use Testosterone Cypionate and to a lesser extent, enanthate at our practice. Due to the short and long half lives of the other esters we do not recommend their use.
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Cream: Cream is an attractive option in older men as it does not require injections and can be easily applied to achieve great results. A properly prescribed and applied cream can deliver up to 90% efficacy on dosing and is a great alternative to injections. We also recommend the use of creams in select individuals.
Does Testosterone Cause Prostate Cancer or Cardiac Disease? Is testosterone dangerous? Does TRT cause infertility?
Earlier studies and testosterone misuse has lead to a stigma around appropriate use of the substance. There have been numerous studies that reflect the safety and efficacy of testosterone replacement therapy. Most recently, the TRAVERSE study, confirmed that testosterone replacement does not raise the risk of adverse cardiac events nor does it increase the risk for prostate cancer. While the risk of prostate cancer is relatively unchanged with testosterone replacement therapy, we still recommend having routine PSA testing while on a protocol.
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Exogenous testosterone, over time, does shut down the bodies production of sperm (FSH). For men considering hormone therapy but still wishing to maintain fertility while on TRT we do offer options to help maintain and improve fertility while remaining on therapy. We also offer options for sperm banking prior to starting therapy should this be a concern.
Ready for the next step?
Get in touch and lets make it happen.
Address
18117 Maugans Ave Ste 201
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Phone
240-563-9247