There are many Low T treatment options available.
Low testosterone, or Low T, is typically treated with testosterone hormone therapy. At Urology Austin, patients who are diagnosed with Low T, without any other significant underlying medical issues, can generally begin Low T treatment using one of the many hormone replacement therapy methods available today.
Injections
Testosterone can be injected into muscle, allowing the hormone to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Urology Austin’s staff teaches the patient how to do his own injections at home, usually about every week to three weeks depending on patient testosterone levels. For ease and comfort, injections are most often inserted into the thigh.
Gels and patches
There are several ways to treat Low T with topical gels and patches that deliver medication to the bloodstream through the skin, gum or nasal tissue. Some of the most popular medications include:
Androderm® is a skin patch or transdermal medication applied to your arm or upper body daily.
Striant is a mucoadhesive, or mouth patch. It’s basically a tablet that you apply to your gums twice daily.
Gels are applied directly to the skin once or twice a day as prescribed by the physician.
- Androgel®, Axiron®, and Fortesta® gels come in a pump that delivers a prescribed dosage of medication. Androgel is also available as a clear gel in a packet.
- Testim® is a packet of clear gel.
- Natesto is a gel applied inside the nostrils.
Testosterone Pellets
While injections, gels, and pellets are easy for patients to manage, some men may prefer long-term solutions that do not require daily dosing. Testosterone pellets are a convenient and effective long-lasting solution for slow release testosterone over the course of three to six months. The number of pellets injected will vary depending on testosterone levels. Approximately the size of a grain of rice, pellets will be injected into a buttock just below the skin during a regular in-office visit. As with all forms of testosterone delivery, men will have their testosterone levels checked on a regular basis in order to monitor results and adjust testosterone dosages as needed.
Our Urology Austin physicians work with patients to determine which medication suits their needs and lifestyle so that they are comfortable with their treatment method, while benefiting from the treatment.
Side effects and possible risks
Some patients may not qualify for Low T treatment. This includes patients who have had breast or prostate cancer.
Possible side effects of testosterone medications could include:
- Problems with breathing, especially when sleeping
- Sleep apnea symptoms may increase
- Frequent or persistent erections
- Breast enlargement
- Acne
Discuss these and other possible side effects with your urologist before deciding to start Low T treatment.
Natural treatment for Low T
Some men may not be able to use the medication treatment for Low T, or they may have symptoms that do not seem to warrant medication. Here are some tips to help naturally treat Low T:
- Reduce body fat with a healthy diet and exercise.
- Increase cardio and weight bearing activities.
- Talk to a doctor at Urology Austin about safe, natural supplements that may help with symptoms.
If you suspect you have problems with low testosterone, contact Urology Austin to learn more about diagnosing and treating low T.
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