Low testosterone can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and low libido. Can hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for men help reduce these symptoms? Read on.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for Men: What It Is and Benefits
Feeling constantly drained, irritable, or like your body isn’t performing as it used to? You might be experiencing low testosterone (low T). As men get older, it’s common for them to experience a decrease in testosterone levels. Testosterone is an important hormone for maintaining men’s energy, muscle strength, mood stability, healthy levels of red blood cells, and sexual health.
Low testosterone levels, also known as hypogonadism, can lead to symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight gain, mood swings, low libido, and decreased muscle mass.
Luckily, low T is treatable with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). TRT can help restore balance, bringing back vitality, mental clarity, and overall well-being. At NP2GO in Edmond, Oklahoma, our hormone specialists create personalized TRT plans, either through shots, pellets, or other treatments, to help men reclaim their energy, confidence, and quality of life.
If you’re struggling with low T, keep reading to learn what HRT for men is, how it works, and how you can benefit from it.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Low testosterone (male hypogonadism) is when your testicles don’t create enough testosterone, the male sex hormone. The American Urology Association (AUA) defines low blood testosterone for adults as fewer than 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
However, some scientists and medical professionals disagree, believing that levels below 250 ng/dL are very low. Healthcare providers also consider symptoms when diagnosing low testosterone.
Low T symptoms may vary greatly, especially depending on age. The following signs indicate low testosterone in men:
- Low sex drive
- Fatigue
- Reduced lean muscle
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hot flashes
- Shrinking testicles and penis size
- Depression
- Low sperm count (azoospermia)
- Armpit and pubic hair loss
- Increased body fat
- Decreased bone mass
- Mood changes
- Decrease in endurance.
Besides sperm production, testosterone controls several other processes in males. These include:
- Bone mass
- Fat distribution
- Muscle size and strength
- Sex drive
- synthesis of red blood cells
Testosterone is also important for developing masculine traits like muscle bulk, deep voice, and facial hair.
When their testosterone levels are inadequate, men can become infertile. This is because testosterone helps develop mature sperm.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help restore affected functions of low T.
What Is HRT for Men?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for men is a medical treatment designed to restore testosterone levels in those experiencing hormonal imbalances.
The most common HRT for men is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This therapy boosts testosterone production when your body is unable to make enough on its own.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves this treatment for males with hypogonadism.
However, HRT is frequently given and sold for a wider variety of off-label (FDA-unapproved) purposes. Studies reveal that these off-label usages account for a significant portion of the sharp rise in testosterone prescriptions.
TRT replaces testosterone lost because of disease, injury, age (i.e., hypogonadism), a congenital (from birth) problem, or a medical condition. Testosterone replacement therapy is also administered following an orchiectomy, which is the removal of one or both testicles because of testicular cancer or other disorders, such as testicular torsion, which is the rotation of a testicle that results in a lack of blood flow.
TRT is also used during gender transitioning to help someone develop male sex traits and decrease feminine ones. When administered in this way, many of the effects of testosterone on the body are long-lasting.
Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men
At NP2GO in Edmond, Oklahoma, we offer several testosterone replacement therapy options tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. Based on your individual needs, our hormone specialists may recommend one of the following methods:
Testosterone injections (TRT shots)
Bioidentical testosterone is administered via intramuscular (into a muscle) injection, usually weekly or bi-weekly, at a doctor’s office. TRT shots allow steady absorption into the bloodstream.
Pellet therapy
Pellet therapy involves inserting small, crystallized testosterone pellets under the skin, usually in the hip or buttocks area. These pellets gradually release a steady dose of testosterone for four to six months, making it an effective, long-lasting option.
Topical creams (gels)
Testosterone creams are applied directly to the skin, usually on the shoulders, upper arms, or thighs. The hormone is absorbed transdermally, entering the bloodstream over time. However, after applying the cream, you should be cautious to avoid skin-to-skin contact with others until the cream has fully dried to prevent unintentional hormone transfer. You should also avoid wetting the area until the skin fully absorbs it.
Oral pills
Oral testosterone therapy comes in pill or capsule form, taken once or twice daily after meals. Another option involves placing a small tablet against the gumline, allowing for slow absorption through the oral tissues.
Patches (transdermal)
This skin patch is applied to the arm, upper body, or any other area where you won’t likely sweat or put pressure on it, such as when lying down. The patch is applied once daily, between 8 p.m. and midnight. You’ll have to pick a new location every time you apply it.
All of these formulations work well to treat the symptoms of low testosterone and increase testosterone levels to a normal range.
Choosing the right testosterone replacement therapy depends on factors like your lifestyle, health conditions, cost, and how well you tolerate the treatment. At NP2GO, our hormone specialists will assess your symptoms, order necessary testing, and create a customized treatment plan to optimize your hormone levels.
How Is Low Testosterone Diagnosed?
Low T can be diagnosed through several tests and examinations. The first steps in the diagnosing procedure are usually a physical exam and a medical history analysis. Your healthcare provider may ask about symptoms like infertility, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, decreased sex drive, decreased muscle mass and strength, and reduced bone density.
After the physical examination, your provider may order blood tests to check the testosterone level in your blood. This test is usually done in the morning when hormone levels are highest. The total testosterone test, which measures the blood’s overall testosterone level, is the most widely used.
Your provider may also order a testosterone test, which measures the quantity of testosterone that is available for the body to use and is not attached to blood proteins.
Other hormone markers, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), may also be tested to identify underlying causes.
Benefits of HRT for Men
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for men, specifically testosterone replacement therapy, offers several health benefits for those experiencing low T.
1. Increased energy and stamina
Men with low T struggle with fatigue and low motivation. TRT helps boost energy levels, making daily activities and workouts easier to manage. Many patients report feeling more alert and active within weeks of starting treatment.
2. Improved mood and mental clarity
According to studies, low testosterone is linked to mood swings, anxiety, and even depression in men. By restoring optimal testosterone levels, HRT can enhance emotional stability, reduce irritability, and promote positivity. Some men also experience improved focus and cognitive function.
3. Enhanced muscle mass and strength
Testosterone plays a key role in muscle development. With TRT, men can experience increased muscle mass, improved strength, and better workout recovery. Combined with regular exercise, hormone therapy can help reshape the body by reducing fat and increasing lean muscle.
4. Healthy weight management
Research shows low testosterone can lead to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. HRT helps regulate metabolism and fat distribution, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight when combined with proper diet and exercise.
5. Increased libido and sexual performance
One of the most common symptoms of low T is a decline in libido and sexual function. TRT can help improve sex drive, performance, and overall satisfaction.
6. Stronger bones and heart health
Testosterone supports bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures as men age. Balanced hormone levels can also improve heart health by regulating cholesterol levels and improving circulation.
Are There Risks and Side Effects?
The side effects of TRT are minimal as long as it’s administered under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in male hypogonadism. This is why many men visit NP2GO because we are specially qualified to treat men with low T using bioidentical testosterone that functions just like the testosterone your body creates naturally.
Before starting any low T treatment, we require all potential TRT candidates to undergo all lab tests. We only offer it to eligible candidates with few health risks.
FAQs About HRT for Men
How effective is testosterone replacement therapy for men?
TRT is effective for men with low testosterone. Many experience increased energy, improved mood, enhanced muscle mass, weight loss, and better sexual function within weeks to months. The success of TRT depends on proper dosage, consistent treatment, and lifestyle factors.
Is testosterone replacement therapy safe?
Hormone replacement treatment for men is usually considered safe when used under the guidance of a licensed healthcare professional. Regular monitoring is necessary for long-term use to make sure hormone levels stay balanced and to monitor any possible side effects. Your healthcare professional will customize your treatment plan to reduce risks and maximize benefits.
Can lifestyle changes help boost testosterone naturally?
Yes! Healthy lifestyle choices can help support testosterone levels naturally. Regular exercise, strength training, a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats, quality sleep, and stress management can all help balance hormones. However, if levels remain low despite these efforts, TRT may be necessary for better results.
How long does it take to see results from TRT?
Most men start noticing improvements within a few weeks of starting testosterone replacement therapy. Increased energy, mood enhancement, and better sleep often appear first. Muscle growth, fat loss, and improved libido may take a few months. Full benefits are usually achieved within 3-6 months, depending on individual response and treatment consistency.
Discover the Benefits of HRT for Men at NP2GO in Edmond, Oklahoma
The journey towards healthy testosterone levels starts with a consultation with our team at NP2GO. During this meeting, our hormone specialist will do the required physical examinations and discuss your symptoms, medical history, and overall goals to determine your eligibility for hormone replacement treatment.
This might involve several lab tests. Following a comprehensive and individualized evaluation of your circumstances and desired outcomes, our healthcare provider can develop a personalized hormone replacement treatment plan to help you achieve your objectives.
At NP2GO, we use bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to boost testosterone levels. Bioidentical hormones are the recommended, safest, and most efficient treatment in functional medicine since they are the same as the ones the body naturally produces. We can adjust testosterone dosages to meet the needs of each patient.
NP2GO clinic is Edmond’s preferred choice for hormone replacement therapy. If you are struggling with the symptoms of low testosterone and want a natural and safe treatment, contact our clinic today or book an appointment now.