How do I qualify for treatment?
Treatment protocols are based on lab results AND symptoms. Not just one or the other. It is important not to chase lab results but to base testosterone therapy on how the patient feels. Someone may have low testosterone and feel great while others may be in low to normal range and feel terrible. Most physicians do not understand this and guidelines by insurance companies create roadblocks to prevent treatment coverage. Yes, lab ranges matter but symptoms matter equally. Read this article for more info: https://www.medpagetoday.com/resource-centers/hypogonadism/trouble-serum-testosterone-testing/1084
Are there side effects or complications of testosterone therapy?
Side effects from testosterone therapy are rare. During your first year of treatment your testosterone levels will be monitored closely at intervals of 3, 6 and 12 months to ensure you are at an optimal level where you are feeling great with no side effects. Side effects are usually a result of improper usage or dosage. After year one, blood tests will be taken every 6-12 months.
Recent data shows that testosterone therapy may be beneficial for your prostate. Read more here:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/appropriate-use-of-testosterone-therapy-does-not-appear-to-raise-prostate-cancer-risk
Studies also show that having optimal testosterone levels is beneficial for cardiac health.
Read more here: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2215025
Do you have to take testosterone forever?
No, you do not NEED to be on therapy forever. However, if an individual comes off therapy, symptoms of low testosterone will come back. Testosterone Replacement Therapy is often continued indefinitely due to the numerous positive benefits men experience. If needed, there are protocols that can be followed to safely discontinue testosterone therapy.
What forms of testosterone do you prescribe?
Testosterone injection is the most optimal delivery of this medication. It is quick and safe (generally injected only 2-3 times a week) and is almost painless. We prefer injections over creams, gels and pellets . About 20% of the population does not absorb creams transdermally. They also may increase DHT, which may cause side effects. Oral testosterone may be an option and taken twice daily. If you would rather use creams or capsules, it can be offered under special circumstances.
Do you prescribe additional medications to testosterone?
We may prescribe:
-Enclomiphene, an oral medication that functions as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). When used with TRT, enclomiphene helps counteract one of the common drawbacks of testosterone therapy—reduced sperm production. This is particularly valuable for men concerned about fertility.
-HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin), a natural occurring substance in the body that is used to stimulate the testicles to produce and boost your body’s natural production of testosterone.
Do you use aromatase inhibitors (AIs)
Rarely. Anastrozole is a medication used to control the levels of estrogen within the body otherwise known as an aromatase inhibitor (AI) or estrogen blocker. Estrogen is an essential hormone for men and women and blocking it is an outdated and detrimental practice. We believe if you are on the right protocol, the use of an AI is not necessary for optimal testosterone results.
How long before I see results?
Benefits can occur in as little as 1-2 weeks! In weeks 2-4- you may start to experience psychological improvements, in 4-16 weeks- you may start to feel physical and sexual improvements. At about 6-12 months you will see consistent benefits and hit your “stride”.
Do you take health insurance?
No. Many health insurance companies make it difficult for people to receive testosterone therapy by having very strict guidelines that are not evidence-based. If these guidelines are not met, then they will not cover your treatment.
We do accept HSA payments. Our clinic offers individualized treatment, lab work, and guidance for a very affordable price. Lab work may be billable to insurance through our partnered lab companies if you prefer.
Do you treat women?
Yes! Women can benefit from low dose testosterone too!