Testosterone Replacement Therapy

When to Consider TRT

When testosterone goes below 300 ng/dL, men and their doctors might consider further testing to determine if TRT might be beneficial. This level may be explored if men have experienced the following:

• • Unexplained anemia
  • Bone density loss
  • Radiation to the testicles
  • Chronic narcotic use
  • Pituitary gland disorders
  • Diabetes
  • Low-trauma bone fracture
  • Positive HIV/AIDS test results
  • History of infertility
  • Insulin resistance
  • History of corticosteroid use
  • History of chemotherapy use

TRT Administration

There are several ways men might take testosterone if it is prescribed. The first is the transdermal approach. This comes in the form of topical gels, liquids, creams, or patches. When applying these, it must be to an area where there is no skin damage or irritation. The area should not be washed until the next dose is going to be administered. Always apply with clean hands and ensure that no one else touches the area or the medication.

There are oral options, and the most common is the dissolvable form. The patient will place the tablet in the mouth and then it dissolves. There is also a buccal patch that can be placed above an incisor tooth.

Pellets that steadily administer testosterone are another option. The pellets are placed under the skin, usually in the buttock or a hip. The skin is numbed, a small incision made, and the pellets are inserted. Depending on how many pellets are placed, this can last for three to six months.