Testosterone Therapy: What is it and How Does it Work?

Testosterone is an important hormone for men. It stimulates the development of sexual characteristics, promotes adequate level of red blood cells and maintains a sense of well-being. Low levels of this hormone leads to a condition known as andropause . About half of men who are aged 50 and above will experience the symptoms of andropause.

Symptoms of Andropause

This condition may present itself in different forms. The common symptoms include;

• A drastic drop in sexual drive
• Inability to achieve and maintain an erection
• A drop in the volume of semen during ejaculation
• Loss of body and facial hair
• Constant fatigue despite getting enough sleep
• Wasting of muscle mass
• Enlarged and sagging breast tissues
• Frequent mood swings

Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Living with low levels of the hormone can really make life uncomfortable and boring. It can cause broken relationships, stress and even depression. However, researchers have come with an alternative to replenish the levels of this hormone in the body in a procedure called testosterone replacement therapy . The replacement is done to add more hormones to the body and increase their concentrations in the blood. The procedure is done the form of injections after every two weeks.

The doctor administering the treatment may choose to change their approach if they are not satisfied with the results from the current treatment. Most doctors prescribe treatments that suit the patient in regards to existing health conditions, convenience and financial status.Those who are not able to get injections, such as those with bleeding disorders, can get different modes of treatment. The most common alternative is oral treatment. In this mode of treatment, Andriol Testocaps are administered orally, after which they are absorbed in the digestive system. This mode of treatment is expensive and may be ineffective for some people. The dosage usually starts at 40 mg per day but can increase to 240 mg, depending on how the person responds to treatment.

Apart from oral treatment, a doctor may choose to place implants. The implants usually contain 800 mg of the hormone place in 200 mg pellets. The implants can be placed in the abdomen or buttocks. They last for a period of six months before other pellets are reinserted. This mode of treatment is highly effective but very expensive. In addition, it can be quite uncomfortable.

Possible Side Effects of Testosterone Therapy

Replacement therapy is fairly safe. However, just like any other treatment, side effects are bound to occur. The common side effects include reduced size of the testicles, oily skin, high frequency of urination, enlarged breasts and worsening sleep apnea. In addition to these side effects, there are other abnormalities that might occur. For instance, the patient may record increased number of red blood cells and a decrease in the sperm count, particularly in younger adults.

The replacement treatment works for many people. However, make sure you get a doctor who is able to take an individualized approach. The doctor should be able to integrate the treatment into your nutritional and lifestyle program for it to be effective.

For more information on testosterone and hormone treatment options in your local city, visit EHormones.com