Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a prescription medication used to treat the symptoms of hypogonadism, which is characterized by low levels of naturally produced testosterone. The main function of testosterone is to facilitate male sexual development and secondary sexual characteristics such as muscle mass and facial hair growth.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be used to treat hypogonadism, a condition in which the body produces insufficient amounts of testosterone. TRT restores hormone levels back into normal ranges or raises them high enough within those normal ranges to reverse hypogonadal symptoms. As with any medication use, there are both risks and benefits associated with TRT.
Andropause
Andropause is a term popularly used to describe the physical, emotional, psychological and behavioral changes men experience as they age. It is also known as late onset hypogonadism, male climacteric andropause, low testosterone and ADAM.
Although commonly considered a male counterpart to menopause, andropause is actually somewhat different. Specifically, both conditions represent age-related primary hormone declines that can result in adverse symptoms if left untreated. Although traditionally attributed to the aging process, many of the negative effects hypogonadic men experience as they get older are caused by a significant decline in testosterone (the primary male hormone) production. Hypogonadic men will frequently notice a gradual loss of energy, decrease in muscle mass, diminished mental focus and memory, increased body fat, reduced stamina, and a noticeable reduction in libido and sexual functioning.
The primary difference between menopause and andropause is the speed at which each condition occurs. Menopause, which is more abrupt than andropause, typically occurs around age 50. Menopause involves a rapid drop in estrogen levels, whereas andropause involves a gradual reduction in testosterone production over a period of years. Experts estimate that anywhere from 2% to 5% of men ages 40 to 49 could be affected by andropause; 6% to 30% of men ages 50 to 59; 20% to 45% of men ages 60 to 69; 34% to 70% of men ages 70 to 79; and nearly 91% of men 80 years old or older will experience some symptoms related to low testosterone levels. Although all men will experience some symptoms related to low testosterone levels as they grow older, most won’t seek treatment because they aren’t aware that this condition is correctable.
Andropause Symptoms
Andropause — a.k.a. male menopause or low testosterone — is characterized by symptoms such as:
- Low hemoglobin and possibly mild anemia Loss of bone density which increases the risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and breaks
- Declining strength, and reduced lean body mass
- Increased body fat (visceral, adipose, and subcutaneous)
- Lower energy levels, and reduced interest in usual activities
- Atypical cholesterol and lipid values
- Loss of hair thickness and/or amount
- IMS (Irritable Male Syndrome) – mood swings, irritability, depression, anger, and fatigue
- Loss of sexual desire (libido) and/or various forms of erectile dysfunction (ED)
Although symptoms of andropause commonly include low libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue and irritability—causes of which include stress, poor nutrition, insufficient exercise, and environmental toxins—other diseases and conditions can also cause these symptoms. For example, diabetes, thyroid problems, medication side effects and depression are some of the many possible causes.Testing is important to properly diagnose low testosterone levels.
