How to Treat Low Testosterone

Along with estrogen, testosterone is at the top of the list when it comes to public awareness of the many hormones needed to maintain good health. And with good reason. From puberty on, testosterone plays a vital role throughout the life of both men and women. For men, it initiates the changes from adolescence to adulthood, spurring muscle development, the growth of facial hair, and the production of sperm. For women, it helps maintain reproductive tissues, maintain bone density, and increase libido. As men get older, it’s common for testosterone levels to begin dropping after 40. While this is a natural part of aging, when levels drop too low they can result in many unwanted symptoms, including depression or anxiety, reduced muscle mass, weight gain, low energy, and even hot flashes. While the slow decline associated with low testosterone can be distressing, it is treatable. Each year millions of men throughout the county undergo hormone replacement therapies. But how, exactly, do they treat low testosterone? There are several methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Which one is right for you will depend on your current condition and your specific needs.

It’s All About the Delivery Method

The first step in any replacement therapy is a diagnosis that you have low testosterone. This requires a medical review, an exam, and a series of blood tests to monitor testosterone levels over several weeks. Certain preexisting conditions such as a recent heart attack or stroke, elevated prostate-specific antigen levels, and a tendency to form blood clots can be reasons to not recommend testosterone replacement therapies. For those who do qualify, the options include:

Skin Patches

Testosterone transdermal patches are usually applied each night between 8 p.m. and midnight and left in place for 24 hours. A new location should be chosen for each application, avoiding areas that have a lot of hair or are prone to excessive sweating. Skin patches are easy to use and are relatively comfortable, but they have to be kept dry for the first three hours after application and they can pull off or fall off under certain conditions.

Gels

These products contain testosterone in suspension and are applied once a day, usually in the morning. Once spread on the skin, it typically takes two to five hours for the hormone to be fully absorbed. During this time the application site must be kept dry and out of the sun for maximum effectiveness. Gels are a convenient delivery method, but if hands are not thoroughly washed after application, there is a risk of inadvertently transferring the medication to another person.

Oral therapy

While testosterone capsules are available, there is some concern that ingesting the hormone can have negative effects on the liver since it must be absorbed through the digestive tract. The FDA has recently approved a brand of oral testosterone for prescription use. There are also a multitude of “herbal” testosterone products on the market, but none have been accepted as effective by the medical community.

Pellets

Pellets are small capsules that are implanted under the skin, usually around the hips or buttocks. They then slowly release testosterone for three to six months. The dosage is steady and unfluctuating, but the incision site can be sore for a few days after the procedure, which must be done by a physician.

Injections

Testosterone injections are self-administered every seven to 14 days. They’re a very effective delivery method and take effect relatively quickly. Although fairly painless, if you’re not comfortable administering a shot to yourself, this type of therapy may not be for you.

Your Source for Premium Injectable Therapies

If you think you may have low testosterone levels and are considering treatment options, Pharmacy Rx Solutions is the company to turn to for injectable therapies delivered straight to your door. We’ve helped thousands of customers get more enjoyment out of life, whether through weight loss aids, hormone replacement therapies, or vitamin supplements. Reach out to us today to learn more. Together, we’ll make sure your future is a happy and healthy one.