Get started

What Is an Alternative
to TRT for Men?

What Is an Alternative to TRT for Men?

What is an alternative to TRT for men? Our guide explores natural options, including risks, benefits, and effectiveness.

Table of Contents

What Is TRT?

Testosterone levels in males decrease by 1-2% as you age beyond 40. In fact, 25% of men aged 30 or more suffer from low testosterone levels in the United States. Testosterone replacement therapy can help improve symptoms of low testosterone in men.1

Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in male development and health, including maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and sexual function. As men age, their testosterone levels naturally decline, which can lead to fatigue, lower sex drive, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and other symptoms.2

While TRT can be effective in improving symptoms of low testosterone, it can also have potential risks and side effects. 

What is an alternative to TRT for men?

What Is an Alternative to TRT for Men?

One potential drawback of TRT as a method of regulating low t levels is that it might reduce sperm production for some people, thereby disrupting fertility.3

Gonadotropins can be an effective replacement for TRT if you want to boost short-term fertility. Gonadotropins are hormones that stimulate the testicles to produce testosterone naturally. Gonadotropin therapy can be administered via injections or nasal sprays, and it is typically prescribed for a short period of time.4

However, it comes with its own set of risks and important considerations you must know before making any choice.

Side Effects and Benefits of TRT

There are several side effects to be aware of if you decide to take TRT or gonadotropin. Below are some common side effects associated with each treatment:

  • Unusual chest pain
  • Increased risk of heart strokes
  • Acne
  • Decreased level of good cholesterol
  • Swelling in some body parts

Gonadotropin Side Effects

If you decide to go through with gonadotropin, some of the side effects can include the following:5
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Acne
  • Infections in upper respiratory tracts
  • Abnormal bleeding
  • Sinus congestion
  • Injection site pain
  • Allergic reactions
  • Mood swings

Benefits

There are some benefits you may experience associated with each treatment option. The benefits of TRT include the following:
  • Increased muscle mass
  • Improved bone density
  • Increased sex drive and performance
  • Decreased body fat
  • Better erectile function
  • Improved mood
  • Increased energy levels

Gonadotropin Benefits

Below are some of the benefits if you choose to take gonadotropin:
  • Stimulates natural testosterone production
  • Maintains fertility
  • Preserves sperm count
  • Can improve symptoms of hypogonadism
  • Provides a more natural approach to testosterone therapy

Accessibility and Price of Alternatives of TRT

TRT is available in a variety of forms, including injections, gels, and patches. Injections can be more costly than the other forms. It can be covered by insurance, but it can be expensive. It is widely available at most pharmacies and clinics. In some cases, it may require ongoing monitoring and follow-up appointments.
Gonadotropin, as compared with TRT, may not be as widely available. It is usually administered by injections, which are regularly given and may add up over time. A specialist may also be required to administer it to you. It is less expensive than TRT but is not always covered by insurance. 

Is TRT Better?

While TRT and gonadotropins have their benefits, there are several reasons why TRT may be a better choice for some individuals. 

Here are some key advantages to consider:

  • TRT is available in various forms, providing more flexibility in how it’s administered.
  • It is widely available and can be obtained from most pharmacies and clinics, while gonadotropins may require a specialist to administer.
  • TRT can help to improve muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive, as well as reduce symptoms of fatigue and depression.
  • TRT may be covered by insurance, reducing the overall cost of treatment.

Ultimately, the decision between TRT and gonadotropins will depend on various factors, including individual medical history, preferences, and accessibility. 

What is an alternative to TRT for men?

What Are Some Additional Alternatives?

There are also some other options to consider in place of TRT. However, here are some reasons why TRT may still be the better choice:
  • Natural remedies: Natural remedies, such as dietary changes and exercise, may be helpful for some individuals, but they can take longer to show results and may not be as effective as TRT.
  • Herbal supplements: Herbal supplements, such as ginseng and tribulus terrestris, have been promoted as alternatives to TRT, but there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness and safety.
  • Clomiphene citrate: Clomiphene citrate, a medication that stimulates the release of hormones that regulate testosterone production, is another alternative to TRT. However, it may not be suitable for all individuals and can have side effects.
  • Testosterone pellets: Testosterone pellets, which are small pellets containing testosterone inserted under the skin, are another alternative to TRT. However, they require surgical insertion and may not be as widely available as other forms of TRT.
Overall, while there are alternative treatments to TRT, it remains a highly effective and widely available option for treating low testosterone levels.

Reach Out to Immortal Male to Learn More

What is an alternative to TRT for men? If you’re interested in learning more about TRT and how it could benefit you, experts at Immortal Male are here to help. 

Our TRT membership program offers a comprehensive approach to hormone replacement therapy, with personalized treatment plans and ongoing support from our team of healthcare professionals. 

Here are just a few reasons to consider reaching out to Immortal Male:

  • Our membership program is easy to join, with a simple 4-step process that can be completed from the comfort of your own home.
  • Our program physician will review your test results and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.
  • With our continuous support, you’ll have access to ongoing guidance and advice as you navigate the world of TRT.

Get In Touch With Us Today

At Immortal Male, we’re committed to helping men feel their best at any age. Contact us today to learn more about our membership program and how we can help you achieve optimal health and wellness as a lifestyle choice. 

If you still have any questions about alternatives for TRT,  then our experts will be happy to clarify any confusion. 

Resources

  1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/treating-low-testosterone-levels 
  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/side-effects-of-low-testosterone#sexual-function 
  3. https://www.webmd.com/men/features/infertility
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33375030/#:~:text=Gonadotropins%20are%20a%20good%20alternative,though%20they%20require%20frequent%20injections.
  5. https://www.verywellfamily.com/gonadotropin-side-effects-1959875

Have a question?

Live More Today

Immortal Male is an online clinic that helps men optimize their hormones.

As part of your membership and as medically indicated, physicians prescribe medications, and recommend supplements that are delivered to you from the comfort of your home.

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)