Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can improve sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and sexual satisfaction in men with low testosterone. When prescribed and properly monitored by a doctor, it can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.
This guide aims to give you a balanced view based on current evidence and guidelines of the benefits, risks, and practicalities of TRT.
Contents
- What is TRT?
- What are the treatment options?
- How to get TRT in the UK
- How much does TRT cost?
- How long to take TRT for
- Is TRT right for me?
What is TRT?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) describes the hormonal medications used to treat symptoms related to a testosterone imbalance. You may also come across the term testosterone therapy (TTh) - but they mean the same thing.
TRT is an option for men with testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism) in the UK. Testosterone is a primary sex hormone for men's health, responsible for many aspects of physical and mental health.
Is TRT suitable for everyone?
TRT may not be suitable for you if you have certain health conditions (see below) or if you have an active desire to have children. If you want to have children, discuss this with your TRT expert, as there are other treatment options available.
To be eligible for TRT, you must confirm low testosterone with two blood tests and have a thorough doctor's consultation.
TRT will not be started if you have:
- A current desire to have children
- Active prostate cancer
- High levels of red blood cells
- Male breast cancer
- Severe chronic heart failure
You can read more on this in our blog on the benefits and risks of TRT.
What is testosterone deficiency?
Testosterone deficiency (TD) is having low testosterone levels and experiencing associated signs and symptoms. Low testosterone can affect your mood, energy levels, and sexual function. It can cause erectile dysfunction and even affect your muscle mass and ratio of muscle to fat.
Specific symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Reduced morning and night-time erections
- Sexual dysfunction - especially a low sexual desire
Other prominent symptoms include:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Depressed mood
- Loss of physical strength
- Reduced energy and motivation
- Sleep disturbance
Who prescribes TRT?
Doctors can prescribe TRT to treat and improve symptoms of testosterone deficiency. A doctor or other TRT professional must monitor and review treatments to ensure they are safe and effective.
Is TRT legal?
Doctors can prescribe TRT legally in the UK. To do this, the doctor will test your testosterone levels and monitor the effects of the treatment. They'll also want to rule out other potential causes of low testosterone and offer supportive healthy lifestyle changes.
Is TRT the same as steroids?
TRT and anabolic steroids both contain testosterone, however they are not the same thing. Anabolic steroids have a much higher dose of testosterone than TRT with a focus of building muscle mass quickly.
The goal of TRT is bring testosterone levels into the normal range. It's closely monitored by a doctor to ensure the treatment is safe.
What are the treatment options?
You (or a doctor) can administer TRT as an intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, topical gel or cream, or oral capsule.
How to get TRT in the UK
To get TRT, you must begin by taking a Testosterone Blood Test to measure your total level of testosterone. You'll then need a second, more comprehensive test to check other key markers. Your doctor will then review your results alongside your symptoms and lifestyle information.
Your doctor will go through your general health and questions like whether you're looking to have a child in the near future. This information helps assess your suitability for treatment and your treatment options.
Bear in mind, even if your testosterone levels are low, it does not necessarily mean you will be considered for TRT — this decision is based on several factors. And not every man with low testosterone levels is started on TRT.
How much does TRT cost?
TRT costs in the UK vary significantly depending on your treatment type and dose. Most men pay around £45 per month, but it ranges from £10 to £180 per month. As well as the treatment, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of the initial blood tests, monitoring blood tests, and any necessary consultations. Get the ins and outs of costs on our pricing page.
How long to take TRT for
To see an improvement, you should administer and monitor TRT for at least six months. It may take longer than twelve months to see the maximum benefit.
Is TRT right for me?
TRT isn't suitable for everyone. However, under the guidance of a doctor, TRT can be an effective and safe treatment for men with low testosterone. TRT can improve quality of life by reducing the symptoms of living with low testosterone.
You can check your testosterone levels with our home Testosterone Blood Test. If your levels are low, we'll invite you to take a second blood test and then book a consultation. Find out more on how TRT works with Leger.
References
- Hackett G, Kirby M, Edwards D et al. British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on adult testosterone deficiency, with statements for UK practice. J Sex Med 2017; 14: 1504–1523.
- Saad, F., Aversa, A., Isidori, A., Zafalon, L., Zitzmann, M. and Gooren, L., 2011. Onset of effects of testosterone treatment and time span until maximum effects are achieved. European Journal of Endocrinology, 165(5), pp.675-685.
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