Testosterone is a hormone responsible for promoting and developing sexual characteristics in a male. This is also produced by females but in small quantities. It is an androgen produced by the testicles in cells known as Leydig cells. The production of this hormone is the highest in a man during his early adulthood and keeps dropping a bit every year thereafter. It implies body hair growth, muscle development and strength, deepening of the voice and other visual aspects of “maleness.” It is also responsible for additional male health benefits like bone density, mood and mental outlook. When there is inadequate testosterone, it leads to infertility in men.

When the right amount of this hormone is not produced by the body it is called hypogonadism or “low T”. Men suffering from hypogonadism gain from testosterone therapy. This therapy is recommended only if the levels fall below the normal range according to age. The range of this hormone in males varies according to age. It appears in a large amount in adolescence and remains static in adulthood till the mid-30s or 40s. The injection dosages in TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) plans are checked by a physician. Low doses of this hormone are available in pharmacies but same dosage protocol may not work as dosages differ according to brand and product.

Various risk factors

According to a research study, there was found a relation between high levels of testosterone and body fat. This hormone is responsible for determining other hormones that cause fat loss inclusive of insulin and glucose. It also has an impact on metabolism. When this hormone level decreases, the body’s ability to regulate the functions decreases too, leading to fat accumulation. This hormone also helps in addition of lean muscle mass. Increasing the hormone levels within the normal range do not help significantly. Men suffering from low T also notice symptoms like a decrease in sex drive.

Maintaining optimum levels of testosterone helps your body to fight diseases. People with low T possess a higher risk for type 2-diabetes and a higher risk of death. This is due to lower insulin sensitivity, increased atherosclerosis and adverse lipid changes. Low T men have a higher chance of heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The high hormone levels are associated with better tissue preservation in parts of the brain and in older men; high levels are linked with better performance in cognitive tests. Men who are suffering from depression have low levels of this hormone and testosterone treatment results in an increase in mood.

Treatments for low testosterone

A subcutaneous implant is a form of testosterone replacement therapy in which a small pellet is implanted beneath the skin of your buttock or abdomen. The implant raises testosterone levels and you are required to get it implanted in every four to five months. In transversal patch method, a patch is applied on the upper arm and the stream of this hormone is given to the patient. Gels and creams are easy to apply. You can easily apply them on shoulders once or twice every day. Intramuscular Injections are an effective method. This method is easy to administer and can be done at homes. The methods produced effective results but same dosage protocol is not applicable as the dosage differs according to individual’s requirement.

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