How Much Testosterone
Do Doctors Prescribe for TRT?

How Much Testosterone Do Doctors Prescribe for TRT?

Get answers to questions like “what is TRT” and “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?”  

Table of Contents

How is TRT Administered?

While the question “How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?” is important, so is knowing how this hormone will enter your system.

Just like medicines come in different forms, such as pills or liquid, testosterone can also get administered in a few ways.
Doctors choose the method based on your health, lifestyle, and personal preference. The main methods of testosterone administration include injectable, transdermal, and oral forms.
How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?

Injectable Testosterone

The injectable form of testosterone is one that you would often get at a clinic or self-administer at home. This involves injecting testosterone directly into the muscle, often in the thigh or buttocks.

This method tends to be effective, as it allows the hormone to slowly release into your system. The frequency of injections varies and can range from once a week to once every two weeks. This depends on the specific needs of your body and your doctor’s prescription.

Transdermal

Transdermal testosterone gets applied directly to your skin, either in the form of a gel or a patch. Gels get applied once daily on the skin of the upper arms, shoulders, or abdomen.
A patch is often applied to the skin of the:
  • Back
  • Stomach
  • Thighs
  • Upper arms
These methods help testosterone enter your bloodstream steadily over time. This way, your hormone levels don’t spike and fall dramatically but remain relatively stable, which can make you feel more balanced.

Pellet

Testosterone pellets are small, solid cylinders or pellets that contain testosterone. They get implanted under the skin, often in the buttock area, through a minor surgical procedure. The pellets slowly release testosterone into the body over a period of several months.

Oral Testosterone

Oral testosterone is taken by mouth, similar to a regular pill. It gets absorbed into your bloodstream and enters your system relatively quickly. As with other forms of testosterone, this form helps to maintain stable hormone levels.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone can bring about a number of changes in your body and mind. Recognizing these signs is the first step toward considering TRT as a potential solution and determining how much testosterone doctors prescribe for TRT.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms of low testosterone can be subtle or quite noticeable. Some of these include:
  • Fatigue or low energy levels
  • Difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection
  • A decrease in muscle mass
  • Increase in body fat, particularly around the waist
  • Decreased bone density, which could make you more susceptible to fractures
  • Hair loss, particularly on the body and face
The presence of these symptoms may prompt a doctor to consider how much testosterone to prescribe in order to address the physical changes you’re experiencing.

Psychological Symptoms

Low testosterone can also have an impact on your emotional state. Psychological symptoms can include:
  • Mood swings or increased irritability
  • Difficulty with memory or concentration
  • A decrease in motivation or self-confidence
  • Feelings of sadness or depression
  • A general decrease in the sense of well-being
It’s important to note that these symptoms can have other causes as well, but if you’re experiencing several of these in combination with physical symptoms, it might be worth discussing TRT with your healthcare provider or reaching out to Immortal Male for guidance.

Diagnostic Tests for Low Testosterone

Asking “How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?” first takes a diagnosis of low testosterone. This diagnosis often involves a two-step process: blood tests and a hormone profile evaluation.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are the primary tool doctors use to check for low testosterone levels. These tests are often performed in the morning when testosterone levels tend to be the highest. The test measures the amount of testosterone in your blood.
If the test shows that your testosterone levels are lower than they should be for someone your age and sex, this can be an indicator that you might benefit from TRT. But, it’s important to remember that this test is just the first step.

Hormone Test

A hormone evaluation looks at the overall balance of hormones in your body, not just testosterone. Hormones are like messengers in your body. They tell your body how to function. If one hormone is out of balance, it can affect the way your body works.
Your doctor may also check the levels of other hormones, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones work with testosterone to control reproductive function.
If a hormone profile evaluation reveals that you have low testosterone but normal levels of LH and FSH, it can help confirm the diagnosis of hypogonadism. This is a condition that affects the testicles and can lead to low testosterone levels.1

Results of These Tests

After all these steps, your doctor can better answer the question, “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?” for your particular case. The aim is to make sure TRT is the right treatment for you and to determine the most effective dose.

Factors to Consider for TRT Eligibility

While exploring “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT,” it’s essential to understand the factors that may influence TRT eligibility. There are three key aspects to consider: age, health conditions, and lifestyle factors.

Age

Age is a significant factor when considering TRT. Testosterone levels naturally decrease as you get older, particularly after age 30. If you’re over this age and experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, TRT may be an option for you.

But, this doesn’t mean that younger people cannot experience low testosterone. Some men may have abnormal hormone levels from birth or experience a decrease in testosterone due to an injury, medical condition, or lifestyle choices.

Health Conditions

Certain health conditions can affect your eligibility for TRT. These include type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity. These ailments cause hormonal imbalances that can lead to low testosterone.
TRT may also not be advisable if you have:2
  • Prostate or breast cancer
  • Uncontrolled heart failure
  • Sleep apnea
  • High red blood cell count
A detailed medical evaluation will help assess the risk-benefit ratio and guide the decision on “How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?”

Lifestyle Factors

Other lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and recreational drug use can also influence testosterone levels. These habits can cause harm to your endocrine system and should be stopped before considering TRT.

Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, can lead to hormonal imbalances.
If you’re an avid smoker or drinker, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes before recommending TRT. A professional medical evaluation will take into account all these factors when determining how much testosterone to prescribe.

The Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

In answering “How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?”, we must first understand what benefits this treatment can bring. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has numerous potential benefits for men with low testosterone levels.

Improved Sexual Function and Libido

TRT can bring about a positive change in your sexual life. This means that you might find yourself more interested in sex and may also have better performance.

Enhanced Mood

Testosterone has been shown to influence mood, and low levels can lead to symptoms of depression and irritability. Testosterone replacement therapy can help to improve mood and energy levels.

Increased Energy and Vitality

People undergoing TRT often report feeling more energetic.3 This boost can help you stay active, participate in your favorite activities, and simply enjoy life more.

Preservation of Bone Density

Your bones need testosterone to stay strong. TRT can help maintain bone density, thus protecting against conditions like osteoporosis.
When determining “How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?” your physician must consider the desired benefits of TRT while also taking into account any potential risks.

Maintenance of Muscle Mass and Strength

Testosterone is a key player in building and maintaining muscle mass. TRT might help you maintain muscle mass and strength as you age.

Enhanced Mood and Mental Well-Being

Low testosterone is often linked with mood swings and depressive symptoms. TRT may help stabilize mood and enhance well-being, leading to improved quality of life.

Cognitive Function and Memory Improvement

A study suggests that TRT may have positive effects on cognitive function, including memory, attention, and executive functioning.4

Standard Range and Guidelines for Testosterone Prescription in TRT

Testosterone levels can vary greatly from person to person. But, when discussing normal ranges, health professionals often refer to the average levels seen in healthy males. These levels can range between 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
The bottom limit, around 300 ng/dL, is often seen as the threshold below which testosterone deficiency, or low testosterone, may get diagnosed. When asking “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT,” this baseline range is taken into account.

Medical Organizations and Guidelines

Different medical organizations offer guidelines for TRT). For instance, the International Society for the Study of the Aging Male (ISSAM) recommends treatment if TT levels fall below 12.1 nmol/L or FT is under 225 pmol/L.5

European Organizations

The European Association of Urology (EAU) sets their treatment threshold similarly for TT but slightly higher for FT at 243 pmol/L.
Both the Endocrine Society of Europe (ESE) and the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) suggest treatment when TT drops below 320 ng/dL, or FT is less than 220 pmol/L.

The American Urological Association

The American Urological Association (AUA) recommends considering TRT when TT levels are less than 300 ng/dL.
In all these guidelines, “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT” can depend on the patient’s initial testosterone levels and the desired target within the normal range.

How Much Testosterone Do You Need?

When you’re asking “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT,” understanding the units of measurement for testosterone levels becomes necessary.

Understanding Testosterone Measurements

Total testosterone (TT) is the sum of all testosterone circulating in your bloodstream. On the other hand, free testosterone (FT) represents the amount of active testosterone that isn’t bound to proteins and is readily available for use by cells in your body.

Taking TRT means doctors will increase your levels of FT and TT to a baseline range. The specific amount of testosterone prescribed for this purpose can vary from patient to patient depending on their needs.

Measurement of Testosterone in the Blood

Testosterone in the blood is measured in different units, and the two most commonly used are nanomoles per liter (nmol/L) and picomoles per liter (pmol/L).
In the US, testosterone is often expressed in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).1 This means 300 ng/dL = 10.41 nmol/L.
How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT will depend on the amount of testosterone needed to reach either the TT or FT target levels.

Common Dosage Options for Testosterone Replacement Therapy

The type or form of testosterone replacement therapy, as well as the dosage, should get determined by a doctor. Dosage will depend on factors such as individual needs and medical history.

The following are possible doses for TRT:
  • Injections: 50-200 mg every 1-2 weeks
  • Transdermal : 5-10 mg applied daily
  • Pellets: 150-450 mg every 3-6 months
  • Oral: no more than 396 mg per day

Important Note About the Method of Delivery

It is important to note that each method of delivery has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. It’s best to speak with your doctor about which option is right for you.

Warning Signs of Testosterone Overdose

Answering the question “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?” is not just about the dosage. It also involves an understanding of potential overdose and its signs.
Common symptoms of testosterone overdose include:
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Swelling in the ankles
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Mood changes
  • An increased frequency of erections
If any of these symptoms are noticed, it’s advisable to immediately seek medical attention to avoid further complications.

Precautions and Monitoring

Doctors recommend regular blood tests to monitor testosterone levels when on TRT. You should also maintain consistent communication about any changes you experience during the treatment.

“How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT” is not a static figure. It can be adjusted as per individual needs and responses, minimizing the risk of overdose and side effects.
How much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?

The Role of Immortal Male in TRT

Immortal Male isn’t a run-of-the-mill TRT subscription program. It’s a comprehensive lifestyle improvement platform designed to reinstate the vitality and drive of manhood.
At Immortal Male, we acknowledge the obstacles men face in accessing the necessary healthcare support to live an optimally satisfying lifestyle. By providing an at-home healthcare solution, we aim to bridge that gap.

Services and Approach

Starting your journey with Immortal Male is a simple four-step process:
  • Apply for membership
  • Measure your biological markers with our home test kit
  • Meet online with your personal program physician
  • Begin your treatment
Our subscription plans offer a range of features to suit different needs, enabling you to take back control of your life. As part of our proactive approach, Immortal Male also provides an online community to support men who are trying to lead healthier lives.

Take Control of Your Health

Immortal Male’s team strives to craft an experience that goes beyond simply treating disorders—we focus on improving the quality of life. With our personalized approach, we help people take back control of their health and build a healthier future.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution to boost your testosterone levels through safe and effective TRT, Immortal Male can help you on that journey. Contact us with any questions, including, “how much testosterone do doctors prescribe for TRT?”

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)