Do Doctors
Prescribe TRT?

Do Doctors Prescribe TRT?

Get answers to questions like “what is testosterone replacement therapy?” and “do doctors prescribe TRT?”

Table of Contents

Understanding Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Testosterone is a hormone, a type of chemical messenger, produced mainly in the testes in males. TRT is a medical treatment designed to boost levels of testosterone in men. 

The question, “Do doctors prescribe TRT?” arises because this treatment is a valid medical approach.

TRT can be used to treat men with low testosterone levels – also known as hypogonadism or “low T” – which may be caused by a variety of different factors, including aging and certain medical conditions.

Do doctors prescribe TRT?

Importance of Testosterone in Men's Health

Stability in testosterone levels is important for the following reasons:

Muscle Mass and Strength

Testosterone plays a significant role in the development and maintenance of muscle tissue, which is essential for strength and physical performance.

Bone Density

Low levels of the hormone can lead to thin, brittle bones, which can increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

Sexual Function

Testosterone is essential for the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty, and it maintains adult sexual function into later life. A significant drop in testosterone levels can lead to decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

Mood and Mental Health

Testosterone can also affect mood and mental capacity. Low levels are often associated with:

  • Depression
  • Irritability
  • Trouble concentrating

Fat Distribution

Testosterone plays a role in the way the body stores fat. Men with low testosterone levels can experience increased body fat, particularly in the abdominal area.

Red Blood Cell Production

Testosterone aids in the production of red blood cells, which transport oxygen around the body. Lower testosterone levels can lead to anemia.

Heart Health

Some research suggests that men with higher testosterone levels have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The relationship between the two isn’t completely understood, and more research is needed.1

So, do doctors prescribe TRT? A doctor can prescribe TRT if a man’s testosterone levels are lower than normal and he’s experiencing symptoms related to the decreased levels.

Medical Indications for TRT

Before asking, “Do doctors prescribe TRT?” it’s necessary to understand the diagnostic criteria for low testosterone, which could indicate the need for such treatment.

Medical professionals don’t simply prescribe TRT based on symptoms alone. A blood test is often necessary to measure testosterone levels.

Diagnostic Criteria

Doctors look for a consistent measure of low testosterone levels in the blood, often below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). 

But, this threshold can vary depending on the laboratory. These blood tests are generally performed in the morning when testosterone levels are highest.

Additionally, doctors will take into consideration the presence of symptoms. These may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Low mood
  • Reduced muscle mass
  • Increased body fat
  • Problems related to sexual function such as low libido or erectile dysfunction

Conditions That May Require TRT

For what conditions do doctors prescribe TRT? Some of these are detailed below.

Andropause

Andropause, sometimes called “male menopause,” is a term used to describe age-related changes in male hormone levels, specifically testosterone. 

Unlike women, men don’t have a clear-cut sign like the stopping of menstrual periods to indicate a drop in hormone levels.

In men, the change happens slowly, often starting as early as the mid-30s. Symptoms of andropause can include:

  • Decreased libido
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Infertility
  • Depression
  • Fatigue

Do Doctors Prescribe TRT During Andropause?

TRT can be a helpful treatment for men experiencing symptoms of andropause, helping to improve energy levels, mood, and sexual drive.2

Testicular Injury

Any injury or disease affecting the testes can disrupt the normal production of testosterone.

  • Testicular cancer
  • Torsion (a painful twisting of the testes)
  • Orchitis (inflammation of one or both testes)

Do doctors prescribe TRT for testicular injuries? They might prescribe TRT to help maintain normal testosterone levels.

Pituitary or Hypothalamic Disorders

The pituitary gland and hypothalamus in the brain control the production of testosterone in the body. They release signals that tell the testes to produce testosterone.

If either the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus is not working correctly, due to a condition like a tumor, an infection, or certain genetic disorders, this signaling can get disrupted. 

As a result, the testes may not receive the correct signals to produce enough testosterone. Men with pituitary or hypothalamic disorders might experience symptoms of low testosterone.

Genetic Disorders

Some genetic disorders can affect the body’s normal production of testosterone. These disorders may directly affect the testes or other parts of the body that help control testosterone production, like the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.

Klinefelter syndrome is one such disorder. Men with this condition are born with an extra X chromosome, which can cause the testes to develop abnormally and produce less testosterone.3

When faced with these conditions, do doctors prescribe TRT? TRT can be a helpful way to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for men with these genetic disorders.

Chemotherapy or Radiation Treatment

Chemotherapy and radiation are treatments used to fight cancer. These treatments can be very effective, but they can also affect normal cells in the body, including those involved in testosterone production.

Chemotherapy or radiation targeted to the testes or to the brain (where the pituitary gland and hypothalamus are located) can disrupt testosterone production.

Do doctors prescribe TRT for men undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment? Doctors can prescribe TRT to help manage these symptoms. This is a conversation you should have with your healthcare provider.4

Treatment Options for Low Testosterone

There are many signs and symptoms of low testosterone. Some are quite clear, while others can be more subtle. In general, you should consider TRT if:
  • You have persistent signs and symptoms of low testosterone
  • You have an underlying medical condition that’s causing your low testosterone levels
  • You’re not responding to other treatments for your condition
  • Your doctor has recommended TRT based on their assessment and diagnosis

It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy Methods

If you’re wondering, “Do doctors prescribe TRT?”, the answer is yes. However, it’s also important to understand that there’s more than one method of delivering testosterone replacement therapy.

Testosterone can be introduced into the body in several ways, each with its own set of considerations.

Skin Patches or Gels

These are applied once daily, releasing testosterone through the skin and into the bloodstream. It’s simple and convenient, but you need to be careful not to let others come into contact with the treated skin.th

Injections

Testosterone can be directly injected into the muscle every one to two weeks. This provides a steady level of testosterone. You may want to avoid this option if you don’t like needles.

Pellets

Small pellets get inserted under the skin every few months by a doctor. This method offers a slow, steady release of testosterone but requires a minor procedure.

Oral Tablets

These tablets are a convenient option and are taken daily.

Nasal Sprays

Applied daily, this method delivers testosterone through the nose. It’s convenient but may cause nasal irritation.

Sublingual Tablets

Placed under the tongue, these dissolve and enter the bloodstream directly.

Do doctors prescribe TRT based on your preferences? The best way to find out which method of TRT is best for you is by talking to your healthcare provider. They can help you decide which option is best for your health and lifestyle.

Monitoring and Adjusting TRT

Do doctors prescribe TRT? Once a doctor prescribes TRT, the journey doesn’t stop there. Regular monitoring is a key part of the process. During follow-up visits, your doctor will review how you’re feeling and may order blood tests to measure your testosterone levels.

This monitoring serves two main purposes: ensuring the therapy is working as intended and watching for any potential side effects. For instance, too much testosterone can lead to unwanted side effects like acne or mood swings, while too little might not reduce your symptoms.

Based on these check-ups, your doctor may adjust your dose or switch to a different delivery method to better meet your needs. The goal is to find the treatment approach that best suits you, and that may take some fine-tuning along the way.

Discussing TRT With Your Doctor

How do doctors prescribe TRT? First, describe your symptoms in detail. Don’t just say you’re feeling tired. Share how these feelings are affecting your daily life, like making it hard for you to complete tasks at work or enjoy your favorite hobbies.

Then, explain why you think low testosterone might be the cause. Maybe you’ve noticed several symptoms that match those of low testosterone, or perhaps you’ve had blood work done that shows lower levels. 

This isn’t about convincing your doctor to prescribe TRT, but about exploring if it’s the right choice for you.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

After you’ve shared your thoughts, you’ll want to ask some questions. This will help you understand if  TRT is a good option for you. 

Here are some to consider:

  • What other lab tests do I need to determine if my symptoms are due to low testosterone?
  • Are there any lifestyle changes I can make that might improve my symptoms?
  • What type of delivery method would best suit me?
  • How often will hormone levels need to be checked after starting TRT?
  • What side effects should I expect from TRT?
  • If we decide to proceed with TRT, how will we measure its effectiveness?

Expected Timeline for Treatment Results

The expected timeline can vary from person to person, and it also depends on what symptoms you’re looking to improve.

Often, you might start to notice an improvement in energy levels, mood, and sexual desire within a few weeks of starting treatment.

But, changes in muscle mass and fat distribution often take a bit longer—possibly up to six months or more. You should talk with your doctor about what to expect based on your personal health profile.5

Lifestyle Considerations with TRT  

While you may wonder, “Do doctors prescribe TRT?”, it’s also worth considering that testosterone replacement therapy works best when paired with a healthy lifestyle.

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and a good sleep routine all support overall health and hormone balance.

Exercise

Exercise isn’t just good for your heart and muscles. Regular physical activity can help boost your body’s natural testosterone production.

Weightlifting and resistance training are particularly effective, but even moderate exercises like walking or jogging can make a difference.

Diet

The food you eat plays a role in testosterone levels. A diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain a healthy weight and support well-being, including hormone health.

Overeating and constant dieting can disrupt your testosterone levels. Try to eat balanced, nutritious meals.

Managing Stress and Sleep

Stress and sleep have a strong influence on hormone balance. High stress can lower testosterone levels, and lack of sleep can interfere with hormone production.

Find ways to relax, like reading a book or taking a walk. A good night’s sleep is also essential for your health and hormone balance.

Do doctors prescribe TRT?

Do Doctors Prescribe TRT at Immortal Male?

Immortal Male serves as a refreshing twist to the conventional men’s TRT subscription programs. Our program was designed with the modern man in mind. 

The objective is not just to boost testosterone levels but to transform your physical and mental well-being on a continual basis.

Do doctors prescribe TRT? Through Immortal Male, the journey towards optimal testosterone levels and the benefits it brings has never been more straightforward.

Services and Approach

Offering more than just TRT, Immortal Male combines convenience, expertise, and transparency in its unique approach to men’s health. 

The program’s cornerstone is a healthcare solution you can access from the comfort of your home, creating an environment of ease and discretion.

With a straightforward home testing kit and rapid, confidential delivery of TRT medications, the program is designed to seamlessly integrate into your daily life. 

Our Team

The team behind Immortal Male is a group of certified doctors, health specialists, and wellness advisors, all experts in the field of men’s health

They have a keen understanding of the health dynamics specific to men and are driven by the commitment to positively impact their patients’ lives.

Treatment Cost

When it comes to costs, Immortal Male believes in transparency. The monthly fee covers all aspects of the program after the initial testing, including:

  • Doctor sessions
  • On-demand consultations
  • Shipping
  • Delivery

Contact Immortal Male Today

Ensuring all-encompassing men’s health, Immortal Male has made its mission to provide a comprehensive TRT pathway to a vibrant life.

You can finally take control of your health by restoring optimal testosterone levels and enjoying the full benefits of being an Immortal Male. 

Join us on the journey — there’s no better time than the present to begin leading the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life you deserve.

Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism

Stephanie T. Page, John K. Amory, F. DuBois Bowman, Bradley D. Anawalt, Alvin M. Matsumoto, William J. Bremner, J. Lisa Tenover, Exogenous Testosterone (T) Alone or with Finasteride Increases Physical Performance, Grip Strength, and Lean Body Mass in Older Men with Low Serum T, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 90, Issue 3, 1 March 2005, Pages 1502–1510, https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2004-1933B)