Testosterone Treatment

What is testosterone replacement therapy?

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) aims to restore testosterone levels in men with confirmed testosterone deficiency when treatment is appropriate.

Is testosterone treatment safe for everyone?

No. TRT should be prescribed only after appropriate evaluation. The benefits and risks need to be considered individually.

Can testosterone injections improve sexual function?

Testosterone treatment can improve symptoms in men with genuine testosterone deficiency, particularly when low libido is related to testosterone deficiency. It is not a universal treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Can testosterone treatment improve muscle mass?

Testosterone replacement can increase lean body mass in appropriately selected men with testosterone deficiency.

Can testosterone treatment reduce body fat?

Some men may experience a reduction in fat mass, but testosterone should not be used simply as a weight-loss treatment.

Does testosterone treatment improve fertility?

This is extremely important: testosterone treatment can reduce sperm production and may cause infertility.

A man who wants to have children should discuss fertility before starting testosterone therapy.

Can I take testosterone if I am planning a baby?

Testosterone therapy is generally not used as a treatment for male infertility because external testosterone suppresses LH and FSH and can markedly reduce sperm production.

Men wishing to preserve or achieve fertility need a different evaluation and treatment strategy.

Can testosterone be stopped suddenly?

Stopping treatment may result in testosterone levels falling again and symptoms returning. The appropriate approach depends on why testosterone was started and should be discussed with the treating doctor.