Testosterone TherapyMiami, FL

Hypogonadism (Low Testosterone Levels)

Hypogonadism is a condition in which the male body fails to produce adequate amounts of testosterone. It is often caused by issues in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, or testicles. Men who have had an injury to the testicles, have HIV/AIDS, have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or had undescended testicles as an infant are all considered at risk for this condition.

Adult men with hypogonadism may experience the following symptoms:

• Decreased beard and body hair growth
• Decreased muscle mass
• Decreased sex drive
• Development of breast tissue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Erectile dysfunction
• Fatigue
• Infertility
• Osteoporosis

There are two main types of hypogonadism: primary and central. In primary hypogonadism, the patient has an inadequate amount of sex hormones due to a problem in the gonads. In central hypogonadism, the patient's hypothalamus and pituitary gland cannot control the gonads properly. Most cases of hypogonadism are responsive to appropriate medical treatment.

Ways of Supplementing Testosterone

There are several available ways of supplementing testosterone. These include skin patches (transdermal), gels, mouth patches, injections, and implants. Skin patches must be applied on the arm or upper body once a day, while gels must also be applied once a day.

Mouth patches are applied twice a day and continually release testosterone into the blood through the oral tissues. Finally, injections may be injected directly into the muscles or implanted as pellets in the soft tissues. These methods allow the testosterone to bypass the liver and get directly into the blood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is testosterone?

Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone found in humans and other animals. In males, they are primarily made by the testicles. It is most typically associated with libido, sperm production, bone and muscle mass, red blood cell production, and how men store fat in the body. Testosterone levels may also affect a man's moods.

Is testosterone replacement therapy right for me?

It is always best to ask your doctor before beginning any new medical treatment program. However, testosterone replacement therapy is usually not recommended for those with above-average red blood cell counts, obstructive sleep apnea, severe congestive heart failure, and severe lower urinary tract symptoms (e.g., urinary frequency and urgency associated with an enlarged prostate).

Do I need to fast before my blood test?

No. However, we recommend that you drink plenty of water before your appointment, so we can ensure you stay hydrated.

How will I be monitored throughout my testosterone replacement therapy treatment?

We will measure your testosterone levels after three and six months after treatment begins, respectively. After that, you may be tested once yearly and stay on your current dose if your levels are okay. However, we may adjust your dose if your testosterone levels are too low. We will also check your red blood cell levels.

How long do I have to keep taking testosterone replacement therapy?

As the name implies, testosterone replacement therapy replaces the testosterone no longer present in the body due to age or other conditions. As such, it must be taken indefinitely for results to last. Once you stop taking testosterone replacement therapy, your testosterone levels will be as low as they were before or lower.