Category Archives: Testosterone Therapy

Andropause: Explained

Andropause: Men’s Menopause

“Women are not the only ones who experience menopausal symptoms”, doctors claim. How true is this and what should men know about it?

Many thought that only females experience the anxiety of being in the menopausal stage. Surprisingly, medical experts are proposing the possibility of the existence of andropause or MANopause, the counterpart of menopause for males. They notice that men’s reports on experiencing symptoms similar to menopause have been increasing drastically over the years. This is the reason for the ongoing debate on whether or not males undergo the same process. This term has been existing in medical literature since the early 1940s however during the time, methods for proper diagnosis were not available. What exactly is andropause and how does it differ from menopause?

Doctors refer to it as a condition wherein aging males have great decline in testosterone or androgen production. This goes along with difficulties in sexual activities due to erectile disfunction, uncontrolled temper, anxiety, back pains, difficulty in sleeping, forgetfulness, hair fall, irritability, overfatigue, depression, development of gynecomastia (male breasts) and unexplainable and sudden weakness. Symptoms are normal for diabetics however, the debate resulted from a considerable number of non-diabetic aging males who reported the same body conditions. The signs are noticed gradually unlike menopause wherein abrupt changes occur.

Androgen is responsible for signaling the body to produce sperm, determining the possibility of having a male child and controlling sexual interest and potency. It also affects the prostate, muscles, bones and the central nervous system. This is the reason why lower androgen level comes with the aforementioned symptoms that greatly affect men.

Normally, a man in his 80s or later can still produce enough sperms for fertilization. This is why andropause differs greatly from menopause. Ovaries can run out of substances that produce egg cells whereas the testes only slows down and produce smaller amounts of sperm than they should.

This malfunction in males’ testes can be seen as early as their 40s. Thirty years after that, more dramatical decline in testosterone level may occur. Doctors say that it is fairly common for men to have it. 2 to 6 percent of men in their 40s, 6 to 40 percent of those in their 50s, 20 to 45 percent of those in their 60s and 34 to70 percent of those in their 70s have it. By analyzing the given statistical data, it is safe to say that older men have higher risks of having andropause. What are the possible causes of this testosterone production deficiency?

External causes related to this condition are excessive alcohol intake, stress, recent surgical operations, side effects of certain medication, traumatic brain injury, lack of sexual activity, lack of sleep and poor diet.

The internal causes include downturn in the proper circulation of male hormones and drastic shift in hormonal patterns. How can a man be diagnosed of this condition?

A doctor will conduct a series of physical examination and ask him if he is experiencing any unusual physical or mental changes. After this, the doctor will order the patient to undergo tests to identify medical conditions that may be triggering the situation. Blood tests and testosterone level tests will also be conducted. What would happen if a male is diagnosed of such condition? Is there treatment he can undergo? How much money should be prepared for the treatment?

Testosterone replacement therapy is known to relieve some of the symptoms including decreased libido which is the cause of loss of sexual interest and potency. It can also relieve depression and overfatigue and enhance bone density and muscular strength.

The replacement therapy is available in various forms such as patches, topical gels and injections amounting to about $300 monthly. Gels are more often used than the others because they have fewer side effects and they are more affordable. Injectibles function quickly but have higher risks of negative aftereffects.

The downside of this therapy is the possibility of worsening prostate cancer. Additional adverse effects of this kind of supplementation include risks of strokes and heart attacks, increased hematocrit, oily skin, significant loss of hair and spermatogenesis.

Before anyone undergoes testosterone replacement, he should consult his doctor and ask about the possible risks. Each male has a different body condition therefore, what works for the one may not work for another. He must inform the doctor about his allergies, former operations, medical history and the like. Also, a man undergoing the therapy should observe proper diet, undergo regular exercise programs and take antidepressants.

The concept of this male condition is still not universally accepted. What are the reasons why clinicians argue about the possibility of this medical condition despite the reports regarding the symptoms?

Debates exist because some believe that male menopause is not an acceptable concept. They say that unlike women, men are capable of reproducing even until their old age. In addition to this argument, men’s reproductive systems do not completely break down during midlife therefore they do not exhibit the same conditions that women go through during their menopausal stage.

Other doctors from Europe and the United States claim that the so-called andropause is just the same with late onset hypogonadism (very low testosterone level) or androgen decline in aging men (ADAM). They also pointed out that the symptoms are not enough to describe a new medical condition. They explained that those symptoms may have other causes. Added to that, applying testosterone therapy to conditions that are not well-defined, proven and tested may be too risky.

Though the said arguments are still ongoing and the concept is being questioned, treatments are available in different parts of the world. The population of men undergoing the therapy and accepting the idea of male menopause is continuously increasing through the years.

While proponents and opponents on the existence of a condition called andropause still exist, belief or disbelief still rely on the hands of the public. Nonetheless, those opposing the idea are advising the public to be cautious and inquisitive on the aftereffects of undergoing treatment for that condition.

Testosterone Cypionate

Testosterone Cypionate: Explained

Uses, Adverse Reactions, Dosage and Safety Procedures

Some people have issues with low T (testosterone) level. This may be caused by the kind of food the person eats or the harmful chemicals in the environment. According to statistics, this affects two to four million men in the United States but only 5% receive proper treatment. Those who suffer from low T level may experience physical and mental changes that may affect their lifestyles. They experience shyness and feeling of inferiority. Nowadays, it is easier to help people who complain about having low testosterone level. Artificial methods such as testosterone replacement therapy through gels or injectable drugs are available. One of these drugs is testosterone cypionate. What is it and how can it help patients?

Testosterone Cypionate, also called depo-testosterone, is an oil soluble crystalline powder used to treat medical conditions that are caused by lack of hormones. It was initially synthesized in the 1930s and is now the most commonly prescribed testosterone in the United States. Depo-testosterone functions by producing circulating testosterone to meet the amount that should be found in healthy individuals. What happens to a person with low testosterone level?

Testosterone is responsible for the normal development and function of both internal and external male sex organs. Insufficient secretion of this hormone will result to late maturation of prostate, penis, seminal vesicles, muscles and axillary hair.

Symptoms of testosterone deficiency are decreased sexual interest (whether accompanied by impotence or not), mood swings, physical weakness and osteoporosis.

The dosage differs depending on the patient’s age, gender and diagnosis. Testosterone Cypionate is taken through injection. It is available in two concentrations: 100 mg/mL and 200 mg/mL. For hypogonadal males, the recommended dosage is 200 milligrams every two weeks. What are the contraindications?

Though testosterone occurs naturally in men, this drug is sometimes used for the treatment of breast cancer in females. However, this kind of use is not advisable. Women who use this treatment should go for trusted contraceptive methods or use two kinds of birth control methods (ex: a combination of condom use and pills) to ensure that they would not get pregnant. The drug can also cause birth defects or even miscarriage.

Depo-testosterone is not advisable for individuals over 65 years of age and below 18 years old.

A person should not take testosterone cypionate if he has adverse reactions to any of its compositions (depo-testosterone, cottonseed oil, benzyl benzoate and benzyl alcohol). Men who suffer from prostate cancer, carcinoma of the breast, heart, liver or kidney problems are not advised to take it.

Depo-testosterone has negative reactions with some kinds of drug. You have to tell your doctor if you are taking one of more of the following: anticoagulants, propranolol, insulin, corticosteroids and carbamezipine.

Side effects of taking this kind of drug include disorders in the blood and lymphatic system, nervous system disorders (depression, anxiety and headache), immune system disorders (skin irritation and hypersensitivity), nausea, gum pain, inflammation, swelling of the breast, baldness, frequent or persistent erection of the penis, seborrhea and acne. These may occur if the patient’s physical condition is not fit for the drug. It should be used only for treatment of hypogandal conditions and not to improve athletic abilities in order to avoid fatal physical reactions.

To avoid improper use of this drug, you have to follow instructions carefully. Most of the time, testosterone cypionate is injected by doctors in the hospitals but if you prefer injecting it yourself, make sure to ask your health care provider for instructions. Be sure to inspect the vial before using the contents. If it has a crack or any kind of damage, do not take the risk. Check for discoloration, floating particles or cloudy texture. If crystals are visible, warm the vial up and shake it properly to dissolve them.

Do not reuse needles and keep them out of reach of children and pets. It would also be best to keep track of time. If you miss a dose, take it immediately but if it is almost time for the next one, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule.

For the whole duration of testosterone cypionate use, all patients should undergo strict monitoring. Lab tests will be conducted to keep the patient away from risks of side effects. Tests include liver function testing, blood cell count, blood pressure and blood cholesterol test, hemoglobin and hematocrit level tests and bone growth monitoring.

This testosterone supplement drug is often mistaken to be the same as Testosterone Enanthate. What are their differences?

Enanthate is easier to find because it is distributed all over the world. It uses sesame oil for suspension. Cypionate is commonly found in the US and uses cottonseed oil for suspension. Cypionate has one carbon ester more than the other which makes it more soluble in oil and less soluble in water. The result is a slower release and longer active life. It takes effect 24-48 hours after injection and then declines slowly. How much does it cost?

Price varies depending on your insurance and brand preference. Online pharmacies are accessible but be sure to pick the legally distributed ones. The origin and authenticity is important in ensuring your safety. They are usually available at a price range of $40 to $150.

Once this drug is used, the patient is expected to regain sexual interest, function and performance and normal sex organ development. His health and well-being will be enhanced due to enhanced libido, better energy level, regular sleeping patterns, lean muscles, fat loss and prevention of osteoporosis. Aside from this, depo-testosterone promotes retention of phosphorus, sodium, potassium, calcium and nitrogen.

Any drug that a person takes will have effects on his body whether they are taken orally, through topical application or regular injection. This is why proper knowledge and precaution are requirements for all patients. However, a person’s physical response to drug differs from others. Even if you have gained knowledge on a certain kind of drug, do not forget to consult your physician to ensure your safety.

Low Testosterone Symptoms

What Does Low Testosterone Feel Like?

Testosterone is often times associated with the overall sense of masculinity of the males. Although this is correct, as it is the sex hormone for males, however that information is incomplete. Testosterone is not limited to the development of the secondary sexual characteristics of the males only. It is also linked to numerous bodily functions such as skeletal, muscular, cerebral, cardiovascular, and even neurological. In addition, the psychological and social aspects of the males are also affected when there is a deviation from the normal of this hormone’s count.

Imagine then what a male would feel like when there is a low testosterone count. It could really be devastating and frustrating for him. Why? Here are the three possible experiences a male might encounter with low testosterone count.

1. Decreased physical sense of manliness. For a male, physically speaking, the sense of manliness is oftentimes linked with the external reproductive organ and the ability to perform the sexual act. An inadequate testosterone serum count can cause low libido or sex drive. What he used to find as pleasurable before is slowly losing its appeal to him. This is not something that he chose for himself but it is an effect of the condition of his body that he has no control of. More upsetting for the male is the development of erectile dysfunction. Although both are physical symptoms, low sex drive and erectile dysfunction could progress to emotional and psychological disorders such as depression, low self-esteem and poor self-worth, which in turn, could affect his social relationships with his family, friends and eventually, with all people.

Another negative effect of reduced testosterone production is decreased in energy. Men are typically active creatures. They are more into sports and strenuous activities compared to women. However, due to the decreased energy brought about by this medical condition, the male’s ability to perform seemingly simple tasks is compromised. Daily activities such as exercising, going to work or even an act as mundane as walking, cannot be accomplished effortlessly as before. For an active person, this is really frustrating and even, frightening.

As a consequence of that side effect (low energy) due to having low testosterone count, this could lead to decreased muscle mass and lower bone mass and mineral density. In here, the muscles start to atrophy or become smaller plus there are decreased in strength. The bones, on the other hand, become weak and are prone to fractures and other skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis.
It is not a surprise then that a feeling of being a “lesser man” is widely felt by the males when this hormone is low in production.

2. It can make the male feel ugly. A wrong perception is that women are the only ones who are vain. Males are concerned with how they look, too. There are even some instances where they are more narcissistic than women. Hence, you would see more guys spending more time in the gym than women. How would a male feel then when his muscles start to waste away and begin to look small? Do you think it is not bothersome and stressful for a guy when he starts to notice hair loss taking place? How about when his skin starts to sag and wrinkles appear all over? It would be an understatement to say that he would really be anxious to be experiencing all of these symptoms, all because he has low testosterone level.

Not everything grows small, however, in the physical aspect of males with this medical condition. There is, unfortunately, an increase in abdominal fat mass, aggravating the overall look of the male, especially one, who is so conscious with physical appearance.

These changes of the outward appearance are enough to affect the inward conditions of the average males. Some will lose their confidence while others may start to feel depressed. Their fears, because of the physical changes, could also affect their performances in their works and their attitude towards their family and friends. Again, though this is a physical symptom but the overall wellbeing of the male is greatly affected.

3. Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness can take over. Man is used to be in control of most things. He is looked upon as the leader. He is always in charge of the seemingly difficult tasks, be it in the house or in workplace. However, when the symptoms of low testosterone serum count strike, he loses that sense of control. He cannot seem to stop the feelings of being hopeless and helpless over his situation. Maybe for some, for the first time in their lives, they cannot do something over what is happening to their bodies.

The disturbing thing about this medical condition is that it is not the physical body alone that is affected. It can also affect the brain functions of the patient. One becomes disorganized. He will not be able to concentrate and focus as before. Cognitive and intellectual capabilities are affected. As if these are not enough, even the emotional and psychological aspects could suffer. Hence, you cannot blame a man to feel hopeless and helpless in this situation.

These three feelings of males to low testosterone count could be summarized in this one sentence – everything feels wrong when a man is afflicted with low sex hormone count. Why? Testosterone may be just a sex hormone but for a guy, that hormone affects everything that man counts as important. It affects his source of pleasures and desires. It negatively alters his physical appearance. It causes changes in his activities. It also disturbs his mental functions. It leads him to feelings of depression and low self-esteem.

Everything that man deems as important seems gone in the presence of this medical condition. However, this is not the end of man. This can be remedied by a simple therapy that is available today. With testosterone replacement therapy, the symptoms could be reversed and man can have his “everything” back to himself again.

A male who is diagnosed with inadequate testosterone level can still enjoy a great life. To avoid all these life-changing symptoms, an early consultation with his primary health care provider could save the day. Be free from the numerous ill effects of this medical condition today! Have that testosterone replacement therapy, now.