Testosterone for HRT

Testosterone is one of the most explosively powerful hormones found in the male body. It controls sex drive, muscle mass, strength and body hair. When something goes wrong with this chemical, hormone replacement therapy or HRT is often prescribed through an endocrinologist.

Causes

• There are many causes for low testosterone in men. Because 90 percent of the testosterone in a man's body is created by the testicles, any damage to the region can cause loss of testosterone production. Congenital (birth) conditions can cause low testosterone. Conditions affecting the testicles of a male infant are a frequent cause for life long issues with testosterone. Diseases such as testicular cancer can also affect the production of testosterone.

Considerations

• It is important to consider overall health when researching testosterone for HRT. For example, those with preexisting liver, heart or kidney conditions are advised to not take testosterone. Men with a history of breast cancer are also at risk for developing the disease as testosterone can increase breast tissue. Testosterone also has a potential for abuse, so those with a history of drug abuse are advised to stay under the care of a physician who can check testosterone levels and adjust dosages.

Types

• If diagnosed with low testosterone, options available are injections, oral medication transdermal (through the skin) gel and implanted pellets. Each type has its benefits and downfalls. Oral testosterone is rarely prescribed due to its negative effect on the liver. Injectable testosterone may not be the best option for someone who is uncomfortable with needles.

Side Effects

• Side effects of testosterone include increased sweating, breast growth in men and even irritability. Breast growth (gynocamastia) in men is of particular concern because increased breast tissue increases the risk for breast cancer. More extreme cases of gynocamastia can be treated with liposuction.

Benefits

• The benefits of testosterone are numerous and well documented. Improved mood, increased libido, increased muscle mass and strength are all common results of testosterone as HRT. These benefits are generally enough to increase a man's quality of living. When HRT is stopped, however, these benefits will diminish.

Warnings

• It is best to discuss all medication questions witha physician. For hormone-related issues, an endocrinologist may be able to provide the most information. Endocrinologists, sometimes just called "endos," are doctors who specialize in hormone-related disorders. It is critical to continue to see a doctor for the duration of HRT to test for liver complications.