What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testicles which plays a crucial role in the development of male characteristics like muscle mass, bone density, and libido. However, testosterone levels can decline with age or due to certain medical conditions, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, and mood changes. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) offers a solution for men experiencing low testosterone levels.
What Is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
TRT provides various administration methods tailored to individual needs and preferences. Understanding these options is crucial for men considering TRT in Australia. Whether you're experiencing symptoms of low testosterone or exploring TRT for other reasons, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine if TRT is suitable for you.
Who Should Consider Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT):
There are several cases where TRT could be worth exploring. Below, we outline some of the more common rationales for exploring TRT, but at The Functional Doctors, we always recommend to consult your healthcare professional (The Functional Doctors or Other) before making any decisions.
Men with Low Testosterone Levels: TRT is primarily prescribed for men diagnosed with low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism. Symptoms of low testosterone include fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass, and mood changes.
TRT is primarily prescribed for men diagnosed with low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism
Men with Age-related Testosterone Decline: As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline. While this decline is a normal part of aging for many men, some may experience symptoms severe enough to warrant TRT. For context, age-related testosterone decline can impact overall quality of life, including energy levels, sexual function, and mood.
Men with Specific Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as pituitary gland disorders, testicular cancer, or HIV/AIDS, can lead to low testosterone levels. In these cases, TRT may be recommended to help restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms associated with low testosterone.
Men with Symptoms Impacting Quality of Life: Beyond the physical symptoms, low testosterone levels can affect mental well-being, including mood swings, irritability, and depression. If you're finding that symptoms significantly impact your quality of life, and you discuss this with a qualified healthcare professional, you may find TRT can be considered as a treatment option.
Men Seeking to Improve Physical Performance: Some men may consider TRT to enhance physical performance, including muscle mass and strength gains. However, it's essential to recognise that TRT is not a shortcut to achieving fitness goals and should be pursued under medical supervision for legitimate medical reasons.
It's essential to recognise that TRT is not a shortcut to achieving fitness goals and should be pursued under medical supervision for legitimate medical reasons.
If you're interested in exploring treatment further, you can visit our dedicated service for TRT patients, cactusmen.com.au. As leaders in Telehealth and offering 100% private telehealth services, cactusmen.com.au offers specialised TRT care nationwide in Australia. Wherever you are, we're here for you - visit CactusMen today to get started with blood tests for new patients or begin your clinic transfer if switching from another clinic!
What Are The Different Methods of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) in Australia?
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) offers a range of administration methods tailored to individual needs and preferences. Understanding the various options is essential for men considering TRT in Australia. Below, The team at The Functional Doctors has outlined a range of methods for treatments which exist. Please note: this list is intended purely for educational purposes, and we do not recommend (or in some cases prescribe) all of these treatments.
1.Transdermal Application
Testosterone can be given transdermally as a gel or cream. This can be a convenient option applied directly to the skin, typically on the inner thighs shoulders, upper arms, or scrotum. Men looking at this treatment should note that caution is necessary to prevent unintentional transfer to others as this can lead to serious health reactions.
Our Tip: To minimise the risk of transfer, apply it to clean, dry, and covered skin, and wash hands immediately after application.
2. Intramuscular Injections
There are several types of testosterone ester that can be given as intramuscular injection. Depending on the half life of each one (in otherwords: how quickly it is broken down in the body) Testosterone injections can be given weekly, fortnightly, monthly or even every 10-12 weeks. Some men prefer this as it requires less frequent administration
3. Pellet Therapy
Testosterone pellets are one option for patients taking testosterone. Pellets are inserted under the skin in the buttock area, and slowly release testosterone into your body. The pellets dissolve over the course of 2-6 months and do not need to be removed once they have dissolved. Please note that this treatment options is not currently available through The Functional Doctors and is not prescribed by our medical team.
4. Patches (Androderm)
Testosterone transdermal patches, such as Androderm, are applied directly to the skin and worn continuously for 24 hours.
Tip: It's essential to rotate patch placement to prevent skin irritation and ensure optimal absorption. Patch replacement should occur every 24 hours, with different application sites used each time.
5. Orally
Testosterone can be given orally but in practice is very rarely done so as it can cause elevated liver enzymes and potentially cause damage to the liver. Please note that this treatment options is not currently available through The Functional Doctors and is not prescribed by our medical team.
6. Boosters (Testofen):
Testosterone boosters, distinct from TRT therapeutics, are often marketed as supplements to enhance muscle mass, strength, and libido. Evidence supporting their efficacy is limited, and potential side effects include aggressiveness, breast enlargement, cholesterol changes, prostate problems, and cardiovascular risks.
Conclusion
As outlined above, Testosterone Replacement Therapy can be administered through a diverse range of methods, each with its benefits and considerations. If you are considering TRT across Australia, we strongly recommend you to consult a GP to determine the most suitable option based on your medical history, preferences, and lifestyle.
If you're interested in exploring treatment further or transferring from another clinic, you can visit our dedicated service for TRT patients, cactusmen.com.au. As leaders in Telehealth and offering 100% private telehealth services, cactusmen.com.au provides specialised TRT care nationwide in Australia. Wherever you are, we're here for you - visit CactusMen today to get started with blood tests for new patients or begin your clinic transfer if switching from another clinic!
While we've ensured that everything you read on our blogs is medically reviewed and approved, the information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should never rely on this blog for specific medical advice, and if you have any questions or concerns specific to your personal case, you should speak to your doctor or reach out to our team directly.
Have been on my therapy for 10 weeks and has been life changing … just amazing