Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Aging brings about many changes you might not have expected. If you notice a decline in your mood, sexual vivacity, or energy, consider testosterone replacement therapy. At the office of Bruce R Gilbert, MD, PhD, in Great Neck, Long Island, New York, Dr. Gilbert provides several types of testosterone therapy to fit your preferences, from pills to topical products. Discover the benefits of testosterone replacement by calling the practice of Bruce R Gilbert, MD, PhD, PC, or request an appointment online today.

What is testosterone replacement therapy?

Testosterone therapy is a treatment focused on helping men feel like themselves despite the physical changes of aging. Many of these changes are linked to a drop in testosterone, a hormone produced in the testicles with many essential purposes.

Your testosterone levels peak during your teenage years and slowly decline after that. They can decline 1% per year after age 30. The drop is much more severe for some men due to conditions that stop or slow their testosterone production.

Testosterone replacement therapy comes in the form of pills, skin patches, injections, or topical gels. Dr. Gilbert can discuss your options to help you choose the right type for your lifestyle.

Who is a candidate for testosterone replacement therapy?

Testosterone replacement therapy is especially beneficial for men whose testosterone levels are diminishing quickly due to conditions affecting hormone production. But it may help with normal aging, too. Low testosterone can cause:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Muscle losses
• Increased body fat
• Memory and concentration difficulties
• Weight gain
• Gynecomastia (breast development)
• Thinning hair
• Low energy
• Fatigue
• Low sex drive
• Infertility
• Bone loss 
• Achy muscles
• Irritability
• Reduced overall quality of life

These symptoms have many possible underlying causes. Examples include aging, medical conditions, medications, unhealthy lifestyle habits, drinking alcohol, smoking, stress, anxiety, and depression.

What are the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy?

Testosterone replacement therapy can benefit your well-being if your symptoms are linked to low testosterone. Even if you can’t pinpoint specific symptoms, you’ll likely see noticeable improvements, including:

• More energy
• Better bone density
• More muscle mass
• Increased sex drive
• A better mood
• More restful sleep
• Improved sexual functioning 
• Easier concentration
• Fewer mood swings
• Increases in muscle and strength
• Thicker hair

Diagnosing low testosterone involves reviewing your medical history and symptoms, a physical exam, and a simple blood test. 

The side effects of testosterone replacement therapy are few and far between. If you notice a skin rash from using a testosterone patch, you should be able to switch to another mode of application if you wish to continue treatment. Dr. Gilberts follows up to ensure successful results.

To determine if testosterone replacement therapy is right for you, call Bruce R Gilbert, MD, PhD, PC, or request an appointment online today.

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