Hormones are little chemical messengers that pretty much run the show in our bodies. When it comes to men’s health, testosterone takes center stage. It’s like the captain of the ship, steering everything from mood to muscle power.
If you’re suffering from low testosterone and your hormone levels need a boost, there’s more than one way to crank up the volume.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is probably the most well known, but there are TRT alternatives to consider.
Each holds the promise of restoring hormonal equilibrium and enhancing the quality of life. But, which is best?
Low Testosterone Risks for Men
Testosterone does more than regulate sexual and reproductive health in men. It’s a multitasker, setting the tone for your mood, maintaining muscle integrity, warding off excess fat, ensuring your heart runs smoothly, and keeping your brain sharp and focused.
So, when levels take a dip, it can have a significant impact on quality of life.
Those suffering from low testosterone have fatigue that just won’t budge, libidos that take extended vacations, mood swings that feel like an unwelcome rollercoaster ride, and more. It can mess with your muscle mass, your bone density, and your cognitive abilities.
If your testosterone levels aren’t where they should be, it can seem like your body’s internal orchestra is missing a crucial instrument, and the result is a tune that’s a bit off-key.
TRT to Increase the Level of Testosterone for Men
TRT is a hormone replacement therapy designed to restore testosterone levels to a normal and healthy range. It uses synthetic testosterone to supplement the body’s naturally occurring hormone, boosting levels back to where they should be.
TRT doesn’t stick to a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s more like a menu with options catering to individual preferences and needs:
- Injections: The classic route involves injecting testosterone directly into the muscles at regular intervals. This method ensures a controlled and sustained release of the hormone, maintaining consistent testosterone levels.
- Topical Gels and Patches: For those who prefer a non-invasive option, gels or patches applied to the skin provide an alternative. The testosterone is absorbed into the bloodstream, offering a steady release over time.
- Pellets: If you’re not a fan of frequent administrations, pellets might be the answer. Implanted under the skin in a minor surgical procedure, pellets release a slow, continuous dose of testosterone, reducing the need for frequent interventions.
- Oral Forms: While less common due to potential strain on the liver, oral testosterone formulations are available in the form of testosterone undecanoate.
Choosing the right form of TRT depends on factors such as personal preference, lifestyle, and individual health considerations. This needs to be a collaborative decision between you and your healthcare provider to ensure that you are choosing the option that best suits your needs.
TRT Alternatives for Low Testosterone
While TRT is the most common treatment for low testosterone, there are other options available. Testosterone replacement therapy may not be the right choice for everyone. There are other factors to consider.
- If there are fertility concerns. TRT may not be the best option if fertility preservation is a priority. It can lower sperm count or have a negative impact on male fertility.
- If elevated estrogen is an issue. For those with elevated estrogen or similar issues, an alternative treatment option may better serve their needs.
- If synthetic testosterone is an issue. TRT typically uses synthetic testosterone to supplement the naturally occurring hormone. If an individual would prefer to stimulate natural testosterone production, TRT is not the right choice.
TRT Alternatives: Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone naturally produced during pregnancy, making it more associated with women. But, hCG is an FDA-approved treatment option for males assigned at birth (MAABs) suffering from hypogonadism.
Injections can stimulate the testes and enhance the production of testosterone by mimicking the activity of luteinizing hormone (LH).
Unlike direct testosterone replacement, hCG supports the body’s intrinsic testosterone production mechanisms. It can also mitigate the risk of elevated estrogen levels, a potential concern in some testosterone replacement therapies.
The main draw of hCG for low testosterone treatment is its ability to maintain the function of the testes and prevent testicular atrophy. For those who prioritize fertility preservation, hCG is an excellent option.
TRT Alternatives: Clomiphene citrate (Clomid)
Once again, this is a medication more commonly associated with women. However, clomiphene citrate, often referred to as Clomid, can be used to treat infertility in both males and females.
While it is FDA-approved selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to treat anovulatory or oligo-ovulatory infertility in females, it is used off-label for men as well. In men, it increases sperm production, but it also stimulates natural testosterone production, making it an effective treatment for low testosterone.
It works by binding to estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, which causes the hypothalamus to release more Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH). The heightened GnRH signals the pituitary gland to release more luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
The increased LH prompts the Leydig cells in the testes to produce more testosterone, effectively elevating overall testosterone levels in the bloodstream.
Clomiphene citrate therapy not only boosts testosterone but also maintains or even improves sperm production. This makes it a valuable option for individuals concerned about fertility preservation.
TRT Alternatives: Aromatase Inhibitors
Aromatase Inhibitors are a class of medications designed to modulate the hormonal balance by impeding the activity of the aromatase enzyme. This enzyme plays a pivotal role in the conversion of androgens, such as testosterone, into estrogen.
Unlike clomiphene citrate therapy, aromatase inhibitors do not seem to stimulate the production of sperm. But, they do indirectly improve testosterone levels by preventing the conversion of excess administered testosterone into estrogen.
This is a natural alternative to testosterone replacement therapy that also helps to mitigate the excess estrogen that often comes with TRT.
Increase Testosterone Levels
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a direct and targeted approach for treating low testosterone, which often makes it the preferred choice. However, it is not the only choice.
For those prioritizing natural methods, fertility preservation, or nuanced approaches, alternative options are available. The key is recognizing that the best solution is the one that aligns with individual health goals, preferences, and the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals.
If testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the best option for you, Heally can help. We can connect you with a qualified TRT provider online so you can start increasing your testosterone levels now. Schedule your consultation!
