Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be an option for some men looking to supplement declining testosterone levels that occur naturally with age. While the specifics and risks should always be discussed with a medical professional, HRT may provide benefits for some men.
When levels of hormones like testosterone start dropping in men, sometimes referred to as andropause or male menopause, it can lead to undesirable symptoms. Some potential symptoms men may experience as they get older include:
HRT for men typically involves boosting testosterone levels through methods like:
- Testosterone injections - Direct injections of testosterone into the body are effective, but some downsides are required frequent injections and fluctuations in hormones and mood between doses.
- Testosterone patches - Patches infuse testosterone through the skin and provide more stable hormone levels, but skin irritation at the application site can occur.
- Testosterone gels - Topical testosterone gels also go through the skin and provide steady hormone delivery, but the gels can transfer through skin contact raising others' hormone levels unintentionally.
There are also some oral testosterone supplements, but absorption through the digestive system is very poor so they tend to be less effective.
Some
potential benefits men may experience from HRT include:
- Increased energy and endurance
- Improved libido and sexual performance
- Enhanced mood and cognitive function
- Increased bone mineral density
- More muscle mass and strength
- Decreased body fat
However,
there are risks associated with HRT that should be carefully considered before starting treatment:
- Potential for cardiovascular issues like heart attack and stroke
- Liver damage and dysfunction
- Prostate issues including enlargement and cancer
- Raised hematocrit which thickens blood
- Sleep apnea exacerbation
- Hormone fluctuations and mood instability
So
while HRT can absolutely be an option for men looking to manage declining testosterone, there are side effects that should be factored into the decision making process.
Thorough lab testing is highly recommended before commencing HRT to establish a baseline and ensure treatment is truly needed medically.
Finding an experienced hormone therapy clinic for men is key, like
Equilibrium Hormone Institute() that can provide:
- Initial assessment, lab testing and evaluation by specialized clinicians
- Ongoing monitoring and lab work during treatment
- Dosage adjustments as needed over time
- Management of potential side effects
With close management by a reputable clinic,
men can potentially benefit from HRT when testosterone supplementation is truly warranted and levels are properly regulated. Every treatment plan would be customized to the individual patient's lab results and medical history by a trained
hormone therapy provider for men.
