If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to address them right away so additional problems will not come up. Potential advantages of testosterone replacement include: Lack of endurance and strength Reduced sex drive Depression
- Lack of endurance and strength
- Reduced sex drive
- Depression
Benefits Of Testosterone Replacement
- Less fat, more muscle
- Stronger bones
- More vigor
- Better libido
- Better verbal memory
- Improved mood
Treatment Options
Injections
Intramuscular testosterone has been used for years due to its effectiveness and low cost.
Disadvantage is that they produce peak, often supraphysiologic levels within 2 to 3 days of injection and decline slowly, often to subnormal levels in 1 to 2 weeks. Such roller-coaster cause swings in mood, energy level, sexual function, and libido.
Transdermal Testosterone
Transdermal teestosterone can be patch or gel. It requires daily administration and has the benefit of mimicking body’s normal rhythem. Another advantage to this modality is that it tends to lower HDL levels significantly, transdermal therapy does not disturb serum lipids.
Testosterone Pellets
Testosterone pellets are a form of hormone replacement therapy. They are about the size of a grain of rice, and a doctor will implant them under the skin. These pellets contain crystallized testosterone and deliver a steady, low dose of this hormone to the individual for up to 6 months at a time.