About this topic
Hormone replacement therapy is also called HRT. For men, HRT is testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone is an important male hormone made in the testes. Testosterone helps men develop and keep male features. Testosterone helps make sperm and keep men interested in sex. ‚
As you get older, your body makes less testosterone. Other health problems can lower your testosterone levels. So can drugs or an injury to your testes. Your body makes less male hormones which can cause: ‚
- Low sex drive
- Problems getting an erection
- Less muscle and more body fat
- Not able to father a child or infertility.
- Bone loss
- Changes in mood
- Trouble remembering and focusing
- Less body hair
- Sweating
- Feelings of warmth
- Feeling tired
- Growth of breasts
General
Men with low testosterone levels can take HRT. HRT gives your body more testosterone to replace what your body has lost. ‚
Ways to Get HRT ‚
- Shots deep into the muscle
- Patches to place on your body or scrotum
- Gels that you put on your body
- Tablet that soaks in through your gums
- Testosterone stick, which is used like deodorant
What Are the Benefits of HRT? ‚
- Raises sex drive
- Adds to muscle mass
- Prevents bone loss
- Helps mood
Who Should Use HRT? ‚
- Men with low testosterone levels who have signs
Who Should Not Use HRT? ‚
You should not use HRT if you have: ‚
- A history of breast or prostate cancer
- Problems with your prostate
- Heart problems
- High blood counts
What Are the Side Effects of HRT? ‚
- Trouble breathing when sleeping
- Snoring
- Rash or itching where testosterone is placed
- Too many red blood cells
- Acne or other skin problems
- Bigger breasts
- Testes shrink and may make too little sperm
- May develop problems with prostate
- Loss of hair
- Changes in mood
Will there be any other care needed?
- Exercise regularly. Exercise can help keep your strength, energy, and muscle mass. Exercise can also help your mood and make you feel better. Try to do at least 30 minutes of activity, like a brisk walk, most days.
- Eat a healthy low-fat diet that has fruit, vegetables, and whole grains.
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Trouble breathing when sleeping
- You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
Where can I learn more?
Better Health Channel ‚
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Androgen_deficiency ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚