Overview:
Testosterone is a hormone that plays a vital role in fertility and sexual desire. In men, most testosterone is made in the testes. Testosterone is responsible for the development and maintenance of male characteristics such as muscle bulk, bone mass, strength and body hair. Low testosterone is a relatively common condition in men over 30.
Low testosterone can lead to erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, decreased body hair and a low sex drive. Low testosterone therapy can boost the amount of testosterone in a man’s system. Testosterone replacement therapy may be administered through pills, patches, gel or an injectable liquid.
What to Expect:
A testosterone test will be administered to measure the amount of testosterone in your system. Your physician will work with you to determine which form of low testosterone therapy is best for you. Options may include a daily pill, patches, gel that is applied to the skin, or injecting testosterone into the bloodstream directly.
Once beginning low testosterone therapy, you will need frequent blood tests to check for side effects and measure the amount of testosterone in your system. Your physician may choose to alter the dosage and type of testosterone therapy based on results.
