HRT for Men, Natural Male Hormone Replacement in Tucson AZ

The gradual decline in a man's testosterone levels due to aging is referred to as andropause, or male menopause.  Some common symptoms of andropause include: irritability, sleeping problems, hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, muscle loss, memory loss, hair loss, erectile dysfunction, diminished sexual desire, fatigue and depression. Reduced testosterone levels due to aging also put men at risk for osteoporosis and heart disease.

The male hormone testosterone has many functions, including the production of protein and blood cells, bone formation, prostate gland growth and liver function. Sexual desire and the ability to produce and maintain erections are also functions of testosterone. When testosterone levels are reduced, men experience an associated increase in Sex Binding Hormone Globulin (SHBG), which effectively neutralizes some of the remaining testosterone in the body, further reducing the amount of available hormone.  

Symptoms of andropause can be successfully treated with hormone replacement therapy. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a preferred form of hormone replacement for age-related low hormone levels because the hormones used are an exact biological match to those produced naturally in the body. In addition, bio-identical hormones can be compounded, or customized, to meet each individual's specific biological needs, thus reducing the likelihood of dangerous side effects. Synthetic hormones are produced in a lab or derived from animals, and may be similar, but not identical, to the human body's own natural hormones.

The best candidates for bio-identical testosterone replacement therapy are healthy males (of any age) who have had a comprehensive physical examination (with appropriate lab tests) that confirms a significant reduction in testosterone levels. Hormone replacement therapy is contra-indicated for individuals with male breast or prostate cancer.  A thorough evaluation by a physician will need to be made to determine the candidacy of individuals with diabetes, edema, an enlarged prostate gland, or heart, kidney or liver disease.

 

There are several options for administering bio-identical testosterone replacement therapy, including pills, patches, injections, gels/creams, dissolving tablets placed under the tongue, and pellets introduced under the skin.  The most common delivery agents for testosterone are intramuscular injections and pellets, but the delivery method used can vary depending on the patient's medical history, treatment needs, and personal preference.

Men considering bio-identical hormone replacement therapy need to consult with an experienced medical doctor and obtain an individualized prescription indicating the testosterone dose and delivery method.  Over-the-counter products marketed as hormone therapies may not contain any testosterone and have not been thoroughly evaluated for safety and efficacy.

Periodic prostate screenings will need to be conducted during the course of the therapy to monitor the testosterone's impact on the prostate gland. Confirmation of increased testosterone levels throughout the body can be achieved with follow-up lab tests