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Testosterone Implant Therapy for Men

Testosterone implant therapy is used for men who produce low levels of the hormone, which can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis, male menopause and a lowered sex drive. Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles that is essential for male growth, development and reproduction. If your testosterone levels are too low, you can experience issues such as fatigue, impotence, infertility and cognitive problems.

  1. Testosterone

    • When your testosterone levels are too low, your doctor may recommend testosterone implant therapy. The goal of this therapy is to bring your testosterone levels back to normal. Aging is the biggest cause of decreased testosterone but disorders of the testicles and pituitary gland also have a major affect on production. Your doctor inserts the implant, which will then release testosterone into the blood, under the skin in either the buttocks or the belly. An implant will usually last for a few months. Before inserting the device, your doctor will check the level of testosterone in your blood and repeated checks will be required while you wear the implant.

    Warning

    • Though the implant is effective in most men, your doctor may need to adjust the level of testosterone it releases. For example, too much testosterone can cause frequent erections, weight gain and anxiety. If you experience any of these symptoms, your doctor will need to adjust the amount of testosterone the implant releases. Another risk of hormone therapy is the increased possibility of prostate cancer or growth of benign tumors. If you receive testosterone implant therapy, your doctor will need to check your prostate annually for problems. Certain preexisting conditions will preclude you from testosterone therapy. Men who have prostate cancer, breast cancer, excessive calcium in the blood and kidney issues should not receive the implant.

    Interractions

    • People on other medication generally tolerate the testosterone implant well but there are some precautions. If you take anti-coagulant drugs such as warfarin or phenindione, testosterone implant therapy may increase their effects. Your doctor will need to monitor your blood clotting time to avoid risks. Also, if you use the implant with corticosteroids your risk for edema is greater since both testosterone therapy and corticosteroids cause fluid retention. Diabetic men may also need to reduce insulin while on testosterone implant therapy.

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