Androgen replacement therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), also known as androgen replacement therapy (ART), is a form of hormone therapy in which androgens, most often testosterone, are supplemented or replaced. It typically involves the administration of testosterone through injections, skin creams, patches, gels, pills, or subcutaneous pellets. ART is often prescribed to counter the effects of male hypogonadism.

ART is also prescribed to lessen the effects or delay the onset of normal male aging. However, this is controversial and is the subject of ongoing clinical trials.

As men enter middle age they may notice changes caused by a relative decline in testosterone: fewer erections, fatigue, thinning skin, declining muscle mass and strength, and/or more body fat. Dissatisfaction with these changes causes some middle age men to seek ART. Androgen deficiencies in women have also, as of 2001, been recognized as a medical disorder that can be treated with ART. As with men, symptoms associated with androgen deficiency are most prevalent with age, and androgen replacement therapy has been shown to help with symptoms of menopause.

Testosterone has many effects on the body, either when made by the body or when given as a hormone replacement. Testosterone has anabolic effects on muscle and bone, leading to increased muscle mass and bone density. It is also known to stimulate erythropoesis (red blood cell production). It is known to improve penile blood flow to help with erections and also improve sexual drive or desire.