Types of Testosterone Therapy

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It is secreted in the testes and is responsible for essential masculine body functions as sperm production; sex drive; development of the male reproductive organ; muscle strength; bone density; red blood cell production and fat distribution. Males are born with it, although these hormones start becoming effective around puberty and are produced into old age. Testosterone also performs secondary sexual functions as providing density and distribution of body, facial and pubic hair; lending depth to the voice; broadening the shoulders; and increasing body height.

Testesterone Therapy

• In some men testosterone levels start dropping considerably with age. As a result of this condition, called hypoganadism, men may experience a dip in libido; exhaustion; a reduction in bone density; appreciable decrease in frequency and sustainability of erections; a drastic drop in sperm production; erectile dysfunction; increase in cholesterol and lowering of glucose; memory loss; depression; reduction in the size of the penis and the like. This is thought to be similar to what women undergo at menopause. In fact, some sexologists like to use the word "male menopause" to denote these functional losses. However, there is considerable disagreement in the medical community about the appositeness of this term. Furthermore, the whole idea of hypogonadism is very speculative, mainly because it does not occur in all men; it happens over several years and can often be mistaken for general aging.

Types of Testosterone Therapy

• Testosterone therapy is offered as a possible solution to make up for decline of testosterone production. The aim of the treatment is to restore the levels of hormones lost during the process of hypogonadism. Testosterone can be administered in many ways. These methods include oral supplements, injection, gel, gum and patch.

Dosage Methods

• When testosterone is administered as tablets, the recommended dosage is 120 to 160 mg twice a day. When it is delivered via intramuscular injections, the dose is 25 to 50 mg twice a week. Gel can be applied on any area of open skin such as chest, abdomen or legs. 5 g daily must be applied. The patch is applied every night on your back. Finally, 30 mg strength gum can be chewed twice daily at 12-hour intervals.