Is It Possible for Testosterone to Help Aging Men?

A significant percentage of males (around 40%) over the age of 45 have testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL, which may impair their capacity to carry out daily tasks.

As men age, they often endure a decline in sexual performance, bone fractures, loss of muscular mass, and anemia. Low testosterone levels, which are thought to develop in men as they get older, are linked to all these concerns.

Some doctors address this problem by recommending testosterone replacement treatment (TRT) to their male patients. For this therapy, the patient takes synthetic testosterone to restore normal testosterone levels. The upshot is that your low T symptoms begin to vanish.

In recent years, TRT’s popularity has skyrocketed. The number of prescriptions written for testosterone in the United Kingdom increased by 90 percent between 2000 and 2010, according to a study published in Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). In the past few years, it has multiplied by several orders of magnitude, and further growth is anticipated in the years to come.

TRT may help younger men, but its efficacy in treating older men is widely questioned.

Here, we’ll take a look at the data from six NIDA-funded T studies to see if TRT is indeed beneficial for aging males.

First of All, What Are Testosterone Trials (T Trials)?

The T trials are a multi-site randomized controlled experiment that took place at 12 different locations across the United States. The study aimed to examine testosterone’s effects on middle-aged and older men whose serum testosterone levels were below 250 ng/dL.

In these studies, 790 males were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or testosterone gel. They were to rub the gel into their chest, back, and stomach daily for a year.

Once every 30 days for the first three months, and then at the six-, nine-, and twelve-month marks, their serum testosterone levels were measured. Their dosage was modified if their testosterone levels were below 500 ng/dL or above 800 ng/dL throughout those three months.

The Findings of the T Trials

The Sexual Function Trial

Lack of T makes it difficult for men to get and keep an erection. Their sperm count drops, and they lose interest in sexual activities.

Findings from the Sexual Function Trial were published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2016. Researchers found that those who used testosterone gel experienced significant improvements in erectile function and sexual engagement.

The Physical Function and Vitality Trials

Some research suggests that low T might also cause feelings of despair, a lack of vitality, and excessive weariness.

Participant depression, fatigue, and emotional state all improved dramatically, according to data from the Physical Function Trial and the Vitality Trial. However, no discernible improvement in gait was noted.

The Anemia Trial

An inadequate supply of oxygen to the body’s tissues and cells causes anemia, also known as low hemoglobin.

As males age, they often get this condition. However, doctors have difficulty identifying the root of the problem in men of advanced age.

Dizziness, headaches, tiredness, and weakness are common complaints of an anemic patient. A broad spectrum of severity is possible with this illness. Anemia, especially if it persists for a long time, can have devastating consequences for one’s health, including permanent brain and organ damage.

Researchers reported that older men with anemia who used testosterone gel saw a significant boost in red blood cell production.

The Bone Trial

Men with low T tend to have weaker bones and less bone mineral density, which might increase the risk of fractures.

Bone Trial participants receiving testosterone therapy underwent DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) scans to measure their bone density. CT scans were also used to evaluate bone density.

Bone strength and bone density ratings increased over the course of the study.

The Cognitive Function Trial

Men in their later years frequently experience a reduction in mental acuity. Since testosterone levels naturally decline with age, there is speculation that low levels may be linked to diminished mental capacity.

According to the results of the Cognitive Function Trial, participants who used testosterone gels for a year showed no improvement in memory impairment.

The Cardiovascular Trial

A man’s chance of developing heart disease grows with age because of the inevitable decline in his cardiovascular health.

The Cardiovascular Trial’s findings suggested that more  testosterone could raise the danger of heart problems in men as they age.

What Is the Overall Outcome?

Six trials have shown that older men with low T can benefit from testosterone therapy, while it is not without its hazards. Indeed, the treatment does have some drawbacks, but they are outweighed by the advantages.

More long-term trials, researchers agree, are needed to fully grasp the treatment’s benefits.

Should You Be Taking Testosterone?

The use of testosterone is a personal decision that should be made with a healthcare provider.

Different low-T cases exist. In order for your doctor to determine whether or not TRT is right for you, they will need to know details about your medical history and current health situation.

Many middle-aged and older men have benefited from TRT to recover from low T and resume healthy lifestyles. If you want to begin TRT, it’s best to consult with a doctor, listen to what they say, and then pick a method of therapy that works best for you.

What Viable TRT Options Do You Have?

TRT comes in various formulations, providing mature men with freedom of choice. It’s possible to get testosterone in pellets, injectables, pills, gels, or transdermal patches. 

Those who suffer from needle phobia may seek out substitute treatments. Likewise, testosterone pills are a popular option for those who don’t like injectables, gels, or pellets.

A Well-Rounded Solution

It is possible for testosterone to help aging men. Testosterone supplementation can help improve muscle strength and bone density and reduce fatigue and depression. Additionally, it has been linked to improved libido, erectile function, and overall quality of life. However, it is important to note that testosterone should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as it can have serious side effects if taken improperly.

Therefore, discussing with your doctor whether testosterone supplementation is right for you is essential.

If you are looking for one of the most trusted TRT clinics that accepts insurance in Roanoke, TX, look no further than our expertise here at RISE Men’s Health. Our medical clinic specializes in Low T and Testosterone Replacement. Call us today, and let us help boost your low testosterone levels!