Testosterone Replacement Therapy Department of Urology

TRT Dosage Explained: Finding the Right Testosterone Replacement Therapy for You

A doctor makes a small incision in the fatty tissue below the skin to insert the pellets. In all men—whether you’re taking T or not—some testosterone is converted into the hormone estradiol, a form of estrogen. And in men who have more breast tissue by nature, the T they’re taking that’s naturally converted into estradiol could stimulate this breast tissue to grow.

The only way to know whether you truly have low T is by seeing a healthcare provider for a testosterone level test. This is a simple blood test, and most providers require it before prescribing TRT. Hypogonadism hampers the ability to produce normal amounts of testosterone due to a problem with the testicles or with the pituitary gland that controls the testicles. Testosterone replacement therapy, in the form of injections, pellets, patches or gels, can improve the signs and symptoms of low testosterone in these men.

Researchers performed a clinical trial on men aged over 65 who took TRT for a period of 12 months. At the end of the 12 months results showed an increase of 4.0 ng/mL in antigen levels in 5% of the men. A doctor will also monitor changes in symptoms and side effects at 3 and 6 months after the initial treatment and then annually. However, people using topical treatments must be careful to avoid skin-on-skin contact with other people for at least 6 hours after application. It is important to prevent the risk of transferring the medication onto other people’s skin because it may be dangerous for pregnant people and children. Further 2019 research suggests that TRT can also maintain bone density, with a 2022 study also revealing that TRTs may improve cognitive function and attention span. However, there was a higher incidence of pulmonary embolism, acute kidney injury, and atrial fibrillation among men who received testosterone replacement.

If you eat a diet high in processed foods, unhealthy fats, and sugar, your body may not respond as well to TRT. Poor diet can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and other health problems that interfere with testosterone function. In these cases, your doctor may need to adjust your TRT dosage to account for these issues. While TRT can provide significant benefits, it won’t deliver them overnight. Some people expect quick results, but it’s crucial to give your body enough time to adapt. Doctors will take a careful and measured approach, ensuring that you receive the right dosage without rushing the process. Consistency with your treatment is essential; skipping doses or changing your schedule without medical advice can disrupt your progress.

Regular follow-ups with your doctor, careful monitoring of your symptoms, and a healthy lifestyle are key to finding the dosage that works best for you. With consistent care, you will eventually reach the right balance, and the benefits of TRT will become clear. It’s also worth noting that weight changes can affect testosterone levels and TRT dosage needs over time. If a man loses weight, especially body fat, his dosage may need to be adjusted downward because his body will process testosterone differently. Similarly, if a man gains weight, he may need a higher dose to maintain optimal testosterone levels.

Doctors usually start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it based on how your body responds. Your doctor will monitor your testosterone levels to make sure you are not taking too much or too little. In the case of heart attacks and strokes, the concern is that testosterone thickens blood because it binds to androgen receptors that stimulate bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. Thicker blood is linked to a greater risk of heart attack and stroke. But some recent studies actually suggest that normal testosterone (aktua-prod.fr) levels might actually protect against these risks, says Dr. Morgentaler. When first starting TRT, you’ll be given a starting dose based on baseline testosterone levels, symptoms, and overall health.

A sleep study (polysomnography) may be needed to make the diagnosis. Whether these effects are barely noticeable or a major boost depends on the person. This may come in a foil packet or from a pump or twist-off bottle. Testosterone is absorbed directly through the skin when you apply the clear gel once a day. You usually rub this on your shoulders, upper arms, or thighs, depending on the instructions on the medication.

It’s also one that doesn’t really have a set finish line—and that’s all right. Natalie Kunsman, M.D., an integrated health advisor and physician at Broad Health, Hone Health’s partnered medical practice. She specializes in family medicine as well as anti-aging and regenerative medicine in Colorado Springs, CO. Joshua Calvert, M.D., is a board-certified urologist specializing in male infertility and low testosterone management. These may be advantageous in men who prefer not to take testosterone directly or those in whom taking testosterone directly is not advised (e.g. , men attempting to preserve fertility). These medications may also be used in combination with the above testosterone formulations.

Mike McAvennie is an editorial director and writer with extensive experience driving original content production on a global scale. And all the other benefits that come with raising your testosterone safely. Is a physician with board certifications in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Obesity Medicine. We specifically reviewed scientific studies and consulted hormone health experts to help you make an informed decision.