Testosterone is a hormone vital to masculine growth and development. Male hypogonadism is a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough testosterone. Various methods of testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, can treat hypogonadism. Although TRT is generally regarded as safe, oral forms of testosterone are not advised, however, because they may increase your risk of liver damage and heart disease when taken for extended periods, reports MayoClinic.com.
Considerations
Men can be born with hypogonadism, or it can develop at anytime during puberty or adulthood. Low testosterone levels can play a role in erectile dysfunction, or impotence, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC. Symptoms of low testosterone may also include diminished sex drive, reduced sperm count and development of breast tissue. In severe cases men may develop osteoporosis and lose body hair and muscle mass, reports the National Institutes of Health, or NIH.
Function
TRT is most effective for treating erectile dysfunction, or ED, in men who have hypogonadism, notes the UMMC. TRT can moderately improve low libido and/or ED. Men who suffer from impotence but have normal testosterone levels will probably not benefit from testosterone replacement.
Types
Testosterone injections, skin patches, gels and putty are regarded as safe and effective methods of HRT, according to the Mayo Clinic. Testosterone enanthate, brand names Andryl or Delatestryl, or cypionate, sold as Depo-Testosterone or Virion, are typically injected into a muscle every 2 weeks. Testosterone skin patches such as Androderm, Testoderm and Testoderm TTS are applied nightly to your thigh, abdomen, back or upper arm.
Testosterone skin gels like Androgel and Testim are applied to the abdomen, shoulders or upper arms. Striant is a putty that softens into a gel when placed over your upper teeth along the gumline. Striant allows testosterone to enter your bloodstream.
Side Effects/Precautions
Common side effects of all types of TRT can include headache, breast enlargement, acne, fluid retention, sleep disturbances and emotionally instability. Serious side effects linked to TRT include prostate enlargement, liver disease and accelerated tumor growth in men with prostate cancer. TRT skin patches may cause severe skin irritation in some men. The application site of the patch is usually rotated to avoid irritation. Men who use TRT gel must wash their hands thoroughly after application and cover the treated area with clothing as soon as the gel dries. This safeguard ensures that hormone is not transferred to a partner or other person. Pregnant women must be especially vigilant about avoiding contact with skin gel, because the testosterone can harm the fetus.
Outlook
Talk to your health care provider if you think you may be a candidate for testosterone replacement therapy. Your doctor can help you decide which method of TRT may be best for you. Follow-up medical appointments are important for men taking hormone replacement.
