Discover everything you need to know about testosterone replacement therapy
TRT stands for Testosterone Replacement Therapy.
TRT is prescribed to men who can’t make enough testosterone on their own and who are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, such as decreased libido, fatigue, muscle loss, and mood changes. TRT aims to restore testosterone levels to a normal range and alleviate these symptoms. At Prime Life Clinic, TRT is administered in the form of injections or a compounded testosterone cream.
An in-depth analysis by a doctor trained in TRT, is required to determine this. Blood tests, along with medical history and information about lifestyle helps us decide on the right treatment for you.
TRT is often sought privately, despite treatment being available through the NHS.
From our perspective, there exist several reasons, with the following being key issues you might encounter:
1. The NHS typically conducts tests solely for total testosterone levels, providing an incomplete understanding of how your body utilises testosterone.
2. TRT treatment through the NHS may not adequately address your testosterone concerns, as the treatment approaches and ongoing management of testosterone levels may not meet the standards upheld by private TRT clinics.
3. Private clinics often boast highly skilled doctors who specialise in this particular treatment.
4. Frequently, private clinics are established by TRT experts or individuals actively undergoing treatment themselves.
5. The blood testing methods employed by private clinics for accurately assessing low testosterone levels are often more advanced than those utilised by the NHS, offering a more precise depiction of your overall health.
Hypogonadism comes in two forms – primary and secondary.
Primary hypogonadism, also known as primary testicular failure, refers to a condition where the testicles are unable to produce adequate levels of testosterone and sperm due to intrinsic dysfunction.
Secondary hypogonadism refers to a condition where the dysfunction lies not within the testicles themselves, but rather in the parts of the brain that regulate the production of testosterone. In secondary hypogonadism, the brain fails to send sufficient levels of the hormones necessary to stimulate the testicles to produce testosterone.
Low mood, brain fog, low energy, reduced muscle mass or weakness, low libido and erectile dysfunction, lack of motivation, insomnia, loss of interest in life.
Low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, can have various causes, including:
1. Age: Testosterone levels naturally decline as men age. This decline typically begins around age 30 and continues gradually throughout life.
2. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect testosterone production. These may include obesity, diabetes, chronic liver or kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, pituitary gland disorders, and hormonal disorders.
3. Injury to the Testicles: Injury to the testicles, such as trauma or infection, can impair testosterone production.
4. Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, opioids, and certain hormones used in hormone therapy, can interfere with testosterone production.
5. Chronic Illnesses: Chronic illnesses and conditions such as cancer, inflammatory diseases, and infections can impact testosterone levels.
6. Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have genetic conditions that affect testosterone production, such as Klinefelter syndrome.
7. Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse (including anabolic steroids), smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise can contribute to low testosterone levels.
8. Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone levels, including testosterone.
9. Obesity: Excess body fat, especially abdominal fat, is associated with lower testosterone levels.
10. Sleep Disorders: Sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea, can affect testosterone levels.
Improved Libido and Sexual Function
Increased Muscle Mass and Strength
Improved Mood and Wellbeing
Increased Bone Density
Increased Energy and Vitality
Improved Cognitive Function
Better Cardiovascular Health
Increased Confidence
Improved Sleep
As you get older, your body’s production of testosterone decreases naturally. This decline typically begins in your late 20s or early 30s, with the average male experiencing a gradual decrease in testosterone production of approximately 1 to 2 percent per year.
Initially two blood tests are required. The first is a simple finger-prick blood test to check your testosterone levels.
The second blood test is a more comprehensive blood panel, with over 40 biomarkers. This must be carried out by venous blood draw.
At Prime Life Clinic we offer injectables in the form of Testosterone Cypionate, Testosterone Enanthate and Sustanon. We also offer a compounded testosterone cream.
Testosterone should be injected at least twice a week and can be injected into the subcutaneous layer of bodyfat or intramuscularly.
The best intramuscular injection sites are the deltoid muscle (main muscle in the shoulder), or the ventrogluteal muscle.
Subcutaneous injections can be administered into the belly fat.
The cream can be applied to the scrotum or forearms (it is more effective applied to the scrotum).
A superfine half inch insulin needle can be used (27G or 29G 12mm) for both subcutaneous and intramuscular injections.
If you are particularly overweight, you may require a slightly larger needle for intramuscular injections.
TRT may potentially help you build muscle, particularly if you have low testosterone levels. Testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle development and maintenance. When testosterone levels are low, individuals may experience difficulties in building and maintaining muscle mass.
TRT can restore testosterone levels to within the normal range, which may facilitate muscle growth and strength gains. It is important to note that TRT alone will not help you build muscle. To get the best outcome, you must include a strength training program and proper diet with your TRT treatment.
TRT may potentially help with reducing body fat, particularly in individuals with low testosterone levels. Testosterone plays a role in regulating metabolism and fat distribution in the body. When testosterone levels are low, individuals may experience an increase in body fat, especially in the abdominal region.
By restoring testosterone levels to within the normal range through TRT, some individuals may experience improvements in body composition, including a reduction in body fat. However, the effectiveness of TRT for fat loss can vary among individuals.
It’s important to note that TRT should be part of a comprehensive approach to weight management, which includes proper nutrition, regular exercise, and lifestyle modifications. Simply undergoing TRT without addressing other factors that contribute to body fat accumulation may not lead to significant changes in body composition.
TRT does not cause hair loss. It may be accelerated if you are genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness.
Testosterone influences the production of sebum, an oily substance that can clog pores and lead to acne. When testosterone levels rise, sebum production may increase, which can contribute to the development of acne.
TRT may initially cause acne in the first few months as your hormones adjust to treatment. We recommend using a natural bodywash and natural fibre clothing until your hormone levels adjust to treatment.
No, TRT is not a magic “fix-all” treatment. While TRT can provide significant benefits for individuals with clinically low testosterone levels, it’s important to recognise that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not address all health issues or concerns.
TRT is most effective when combined with a holistic approach to health and wellness. This includes proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and other lifestyle modifications tailored to individual needs and goals.
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