Just because low testosterone has got you down, it doesn't mean that the down-in-the-dumps
feeling and all the physical symptoms that come with it are something you have
to put up with. Testosterone replacement therapy, which is available in a number
of forms, has been shown to increase energy levels, muscle mass, bone density,
and sex drive and to reduce other symptoms in men who suffer from low testosterone
for a range of reasons.
Testosterone supplements come in a variety of forms, including gels, injections,
patches, and pills. Men concerned about maintaining an active lifestyle
may find it easiest to get stuck on the patch because it is applied once
daily and worn for 24 hours, and users can exercise, swim, bathe, and shower
like normal. Most importantly, the patch is the only delivery method that mimics
the natural daily rhythm of testosterone production in healthy young men.
While gels are also popular, they can be messy and restrictive. The
gel is applied once daily to clean, dry skin on the shoulders, upper arm, or
abdomen, and users must wait several minutes for the gel to dry before dressing
and a further 5 to 6 hours before showering, bathing, or swimming. Because the
testosterone in the gel is so easily absorbed, men using this form need to take
caution not to let anyone else come into direct contact with the medicated skin
- this can lead to the development of masculine features such as a low voice
and facial hair unless the affected area is washed thoroughly and as promptly
as possible with soap and water.
Though they are available, pills are not commonly prescribed as a means
of treating low testosterone because they can cause severe liver damage. And
while some doctors may prescribe testosterone injections, the shots are
injected directly into a muscle - which can be painful - and are generally administered
at the doctor's office every 3 to 4 weeks, which may be inconvenient.
Side effects of testosterone replacement therapy can include acne, prostate
growth, sleep problems, increased blood cell production, and other effects that
are related to the specific dosage form. As well, men with prostrate cancer,
breast cancer, or allergies to testosterone or any ingredient in the dosage form
should avoid testosterone replacement therapies.
Talk with your doctor to find out whether testosterone replacement therapy
- and in which form - is right for you!
