Thursday, April 18, 2024

Is Male Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe

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Testosterone And Death Risk

6 YEARS ON HRT UPDATES ( Male to Female Hormone Replacement Therapy ) – Vikki Le

Low testosterone levels are associated with an increased risk of death, according to Robin Haring, a researcher from the Institute for Community Medicine at Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University in Griefswald, Germany, who presented the finding at the meeting.

He evaluated data on nearly 2,000 men, aged 20 to 79, who participated in the Study of Health in Pomerania, following them for seven years until August 2007. He noted testosterone levels, age, weight, smoking habits, and physical activity. The drugmaker Novo Nordisk partly funded the study.

During the follow-up, 226 men died. “Men with low testosterone have a more than twofold higher risk of death during the follow-up period,” he says.

They were more likely to die of cardiovascular disease and cancer, but not of other causes.

Consultation And Evaluation For Hormone Pellet Therapy

Completion of the Female Hormone Pellet Therapy Consultation will involve full symptom discussion and evaluation, a pelvic ultrasound in our facility, and a panel of laboratories for baseline hormone levels plus other indicated labs. Hormone Pellets may be inserted during the second visit after a discussion of lab and ultrasound results.

How To Know You Need A Low T Clinic

In determining whether you may be suffering from Low T, our hormone replacement therapy doctors will ask some questions and conduct a simple blood test. Common symptoms to be on the lookout for include sexual dysfunction, low energy, moodiness or irritability, and loss of muscle mass combined with increased areas of fat. While a change in testosterone level is normal with age, if the level dips too low, the symptoms can drain your energy and wreck your quality of life.

Our doctors can help you regain your balance through hormone replacement therapy. The objective of Low T treatment is to restore hormones to more optimal levels. Treatment options are available if you are diagnosed with testosterone deficiency. Topical cream may be applied right to the skin once or twice daily. Alternatively, testosterone replacement injections can be performed, either at home or by our skilled doctors specializing in hormone replacement therapy

Read Also: Can Low Testosterone Cause Weight Gain

Legitimate Health Concerns Demonstrated In Women Taking Pelleted Hrt

In this study, Xuezhi Jiang, MD, PhD, and his colleagues examined the medical records of postmenopausal women who were patients at the Reading Hospital in Pennsylvania. Their goal was to compare serum levels of estradiol and total testosterone in women who had taken bioidentical pellet hormone therapy compared with women who used regular hormone therapy. The women who received hormones by solid pellet had it inserted under the skin. Dr. Jiang is an obstetrician-gynecologist and associate professor of medicine at Jefferson Medical College, in Reading, Pennsylvania.

The researchers were surprised by their findings; they reported that the mean serum estradiol and total testosterone levels for women using pellet therapy were 237.7 pg/mL and 192.84 pg/mL, respectively, compared to 93.45 pg/mL and 15.59 pg/mL in women receiving traditional hormone therapy.1 These high levels of hormones can be very concerning, Dr. Jiang tells EndocrineWeb.

Pellet therapy users also had significantly higher incidences of negative side effects, he says. Among the issues reported by the women who had pelleted hormones were: abnormal bleeding, mood swings and anxiety, breast tenderness, changes in hair patterns, acne, and weight gain.1

What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Bradenton

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is the use of hormones to help resolve symptoms related to hormonal imbalance or decline in hormone production tied to aging. Certain hormone treatments are called bioidentical or sometimes natural because the types of hormones used are chemically identical to those produced by the human body.

Specific hormones that BHRT aims to increase or balance include those tied to reproduction and youth, such as;estrogen , progesterone, and sometimes testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and adrenal hormones. During the years leading up to menopause, and then through this transition, a womans body produces less of these hormones , which may lead to symptoms like fatigue, hot flashes/night sweats, vaginal dryness and thinning bones.;Various hormone therapy products are used to overcome these symptoms, some of which have been approved by the FDA and are available by prescription through health care providers, but many of which have not.

BHRT treatments include creams, lotions, injections, gels, sprats or tablets that;have the goal of raising hormone levels back up to a more youthful state. Examples of popular bioidentical hormone replacement therapy products now on the market include Estrace, Premphase, Prempro, Activara and Vivelle-Dot, just to name a few .

Read Also: Do You Need Estrogen After Menopause

Is Bhrt Safe Plus Other Treatments To Consider First

BHRT products have not been proven to be safe or unsafe. Because not enough is known about their long-term efficacy or safety, theyre still considered controversial. Be aware of potential side effects, and know that claims stating BHRT is protective against cancer or heart disease in women has not been validated. If you do decide to use them, do so using the lowest dose that helps and for the shortest time period needed to help reduce the chance for side effects.

How Else Can You Balance Hormones Naturally?

Before considering BHRT, I urge you to make lifestyle changes that are truly natural to see how you feel. Chances are your weight, sleep, mood and energy would greatly improve if you tried some of the following hormone-balancing solutions:

Final Thoughts on Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

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Is Testosterone Therapy Safe For Men A Research

According to the old birthday joke, youre over the hill after your 50th birthday.

But why do we assume this milestone is an old age prison sentence? Why should living an active and fulfilling life slip out of reach after your 50th or 60th birthday?

Thanks to the convergence of incredible technologies and scientific breakthroughs, 90 is the new 60. Being old in 2019 is;not;what it used to be. We want to live longer, feel better, and take advantage of every minute were given.

So forget about being over the hill. You can add three decades of vibrant living to your life story just by optimizing your health.;Bioidentical;testosterone therapy for men;is one of the core components of optimal health, especially for men over 40.

If youre committed to living your best life, testosterone therapy may be the key.

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What Does The Research Say

Testosterone replacement therapy is sometimes questioned since its older and more traditional applications can cause unwanted side effects. Its important to distinguish these methods from todays customized bioidentical hormone replacement methods.

The most trusted medical journals and organizations have published extensive research documenting proof of the safety of testosterone therapy for men.

Mayo Clinic

The Mayo Clinic published a;lengthy report in 2015;responding to studies that questioned BHRTs correlation to cardiovascular disease. This report investigated every study performed between the years 1940 and 2014 with keywords like testosterone, androgens, cardiovascular, stroke, heart attack, and death.

Out of hundreds of studies, only four suggested an increased risk of cardiovascular disease for people optimizing with bioidentical testosterone. Of those four studies, three were discredited by serious methodological issues.

In contrast, several dozen studies reported beneficial effects of normal testosterone levels on cardiovascular risks and mortality. Testosterone therapy for men is actually associated with reduced obesity, fat mass, waist circumference, and improved glycemic control.

NIH

AACE

EMA

Indications And Other Uses

Is Testosterone Replacement Therapy Safe for My Prostate?

TRT in males with low concentrations of testosterone is controversial because this condition is often a normal sign of aging; testosterone concentrations in men naturally begin to decline at age 40 years, at an average of 1% to 2% per year.5 Clinical hypogonadism, however, is an approved indication for TRT and is the only FDA-approved indication for TRT in men. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists defines male hypogonadism as a decrease in testicular function accompanied by signs or symptoms.6 In women, additional FDA-approved indications include vasomotor symptoms of menopause and breast cancer. Despite having only the abovementioned FDA-approved indications, TRT is often recommended by prescribersbased on a presumption of low testosteronefor sexual function, bone density, body composition, muscle strength, mood, behavior, and cognition. Two areas of use that are beyond the scope of this article are TRT in sportsan ongoing controversyand in female-to-male transgender patients.

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The Benefits And Results Of Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy For Transsexuals Who Are Undergoing The Gender Reassignment Transition Process

Depo-testosterone vials are available by prescription in a 10mL and a 1mL size.

  • Letter from therapist to begin hormones
  • Blood work and testosterone levels

Blood work will be taken more frequently just after beginning hormone therapy. It is important to monitor your testosterone and CBC results after introducing the new hormone into the body. Testosterone intake may need to be increased if it is too low, or decreased if it is too high. Testosterone can increase red blood cell count, thereby increasing the probability of side effects.Testosterone can be given as:

  • An intramuscular injection, usually the glutes or thigh;
  • A transdermal implant placed under the skin, usually the abdomen or buttocks; or
  • An oral tablet, not recommended because of liver toxicity

In biological men, testosterone is a hormone produced by the endocrine system though the testes. It is responsible for:

  • Libido
  • Energy
  • Development of male secondary sex characteristics, such as body hair growth, penile growth, and deepening of the voice

Being Normal Doesnt Make You Healthy

The more I learned about;bioidentical hormones;and testosterone therapy, the more I discovered that our countrys entire disease management protocol is misaligned. We maintain a dangerous all-or-nothing mentality. Your doctor says you either have diabetes or you dont. You have cancer or you dont. But disease isnt black and white! It isnt so simple.

The truth is that you dont wake up one day with a disease. Chronic conditions develop progressively over time. They only pose severe threats to your life and wellbeing when the warning signs are overlooked or ignored. Reassuring yourself that youre normal creates a false sense of security that may allow you to ignore telltale symptoms of a serious problem.

When it comes to testosterone, very low levels are easy to identify. The real breakthrough comes in identifying low testosterone levels that are technically normal and asking yourself, is this optimal? Even if your bloodwork shows testosterone levels that are;technically;okay, they wont stay that way for long.

Think of it this way: is driving a car at 25 mph normal? Sure, its normal if youre in a school zone or parking lot. Once you hop on the highway, however, driving 25 mph is unacceptable. Youll either take two hours to get across town, or youll get run over by the vehicles behind you.

Also Check: How To Test Testosterone Levels At Home

What Are The Health Risks Of Having Low Testosterone

Low levels of testosterone can contribute to a number of problems which might lead someone to become interested in testosterone replacement therapy. Common symptoms of low or declining testosterone include:

  • Issues with sexual function. Men with low testosterone may experience erectile dysfunction, lack of libido, and fewer erections.
  • Changes in sleep patterns. Low testosterone can lead to insomnia and other problems with sleep.
  • Physical changes, like increased body fat and reduced muscle mass, as well as weaker bones. Premature hair loss and lack of energy are also common.
  • Emotional issues. Men with low testosterone may have problems with self-confidence, depression, or motivation. Cognitive issues like difficulty focusing may also emerge.

Testosterone Treatment Should Be Given Only For Sexual Dysfunction Guideline Suggests

Hormone Replacement Pellet Therapy

Men looking for improved energy and memory won’t find it in testosterone treatment, which should be used in older men only for sexual dysfunction, according to researchers and a new guideline published Monday.

The only scientifically proven use for the hormone in older men with age-related low testosterone levels is for sexual dysfunction, according to a new recommendation from the American College of Physicians published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

The new recommendation was decided after researchers reviewed 38 randomized, controlled testosterone treatment trials, which ranged from 10 to 798 male participants from the U.S., Europe, Asia and Australia between 1997 and 2018. The studies tracked men from less than 12 months up to three years. Twenty four of the studies reported at least partial industry sponsorship.

In the studies, men were given testosterone via intramuscular shots or through the skin with a hormone patch or gel. That analysis was published Monday, along with the new guideline.

Millions of men seek a quick health fix with testosterone replacement, both from prescriptions and over-the-counter supplements. The new analysis showed that there’s no evidence that long-term testosterone supplementation improves or damages health, said Dr. Robert McLean, president of the APA and a rheumatologist at Yale New Haven Health’s Northeast Medical Group. The only benefit is a short-term treatment for men with sexual issues.

  • Overexercise.

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Why Is Male Hormone Replacement Therapy Used

Testosterone replacement therapy is used to combat low levels of testosterone, caused by disease or old age.

Hypogonadism, for example, is a condition in which men are unable to produce the necessary amount of testosterone. For these people, testosterone therapy can certainly be influential in helping to bring optimal health. There are some who like to use hormone replacement therapy and weight loss programs together because of the enhanced benefits.

In regards to old age, there is some debate as to whether or not testosterone production is actually responsible for the symptoms of aging, such as weakness and muscle loss. Some people have had positive experiences using testosterone replacement therapy, but others have seen negligible benefits.

Whatever the case, its certain that there are some risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy, and it may not be the best solution for all men.

Take A Cautious Approach

A large, definitive trial for hormone treatment of men is still to come. Until then, here is how to take a cautious approach to testosterone therapy.

Take stock of your health first

  • Have you considered other reasons why you may be experiencing fatigue, low sex drive, and other symptoms attributable to low testosterone? For example, do you eat a balanced, nutritious diet? Do you exercise regularly? Do you sleep well? Address these factors before turning to hormone replacement therapy for men.

  • If your sex life is not what it used to be, have you ruled out relationship or psychological issues that could be contributing?

  • If erectile dysfunction has caused you to suspect “low T” as the culprit, consider that cardiovascular disease can also cause erectile dysfunction.

Get an accurate assessment

Be mindful of unknown risks of testosterone replacement therapy

  • Approach testosterone therapy with caution if you are at high risk for prostate cancer; have severe urinary symptoms from prostate enlargement; or have diagnosed heart disease, a previous heart attack, or multiple risk factors for heart problems.

  • Ask your doctor to explain the various side effects for the different formulations of testosterone. The different treatments include testosterone injections,;gels and patches. Know what to look for if something goes wrong.

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How Ab Hormone Therapy Helps Men

Male hormone replacement therapy is very effective, and safe if treatment is done under the supervision of a doctor who is experienced in male hormone treatment. It also means that your lifestyle includes a healthy diet and sufficient physical activity. Our personalized program includes bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men suffering from hormonal imbalance.

Hormonal imbalances in men are at the root of many chronic health problems and can increase the risk of serious disease. Advanced Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for men has proven successful in supporting mens health and a healthy hormonal balance. With our ongoing support, we can help make men have the energy, enthusiasm for life, and sex drive they had when they were 25 to 30 years old!

Why Men Seek Over

Safe Use of Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men with TDS

In order to understand the rise of over-the-counter testosterone treatment, we have to understand how important testosterone is, and how it affects the male body. Testosterone is an incredibly powerful hormone. When levels are normal, testosterone helps maintain several markers of vitality that a man might feel really good aboutmusculature, sex drive, energy, and mood. However, many men have testosterone levels that fall below the normal range, particularly as they age, potentially causing a host of symptoms that can deeply affect how you look, feel, and experience the world around you.

Enter testosterone replacement therapy . TRT is an innovative treatment option that helps men who experience andropause or other forms of hypogonadism restore their bodys natural testosterone levels. After having your hormone levels tested by a qualified practitioner, you would begin taking medications that contain a dose of testosterone determined to be appropriate for your symptoms and physiology. Your body responds to these hormones as it would to endogenous testosterone, often resulting in improved energy, mood, sex drive, lean body mass, and cognitive function. Hormone replacement therapy is highly effective and accessible to men across the United States.

Any of these could spur someone to try over-the-counter supplements claiming to boost testosterone. But having a good reason for wanting to seek out OTC products does not mean its a good idea.

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Facts About Mens Hgh Therapy

  • GH production decline is a natural part of life
  • Symptoms associated with adult growth hormone deficiency are not natural
  • Some factors, such as a brain tumor or head injury can increase GH decline
  • HGH therapy can be beneficial when GH levels get too low
  • A doctor must prescribe and supervise HGH use
  • Blood analysis and physical exam are essential before receiving HGH therapy

Mens HGH therapy can help make up for declining growth hormone levels.

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