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Update for Men on Replacement Therapy (TRT)

What is Testosterone? The American Urological Association (AUA) has Testosterone is the that helps followed these reports closely. The AUA notes boys become men. This hormone is key during that there are conflicting studies that suggest TRT and the development of male physical may lower risk. More studies need to be features. Testosterone levels can affect men’s sex done to be certain whether and how TRT changes drive, , mood, muscle mass and men’s risk of heart attack. density. Testosterone is also needed for men to The AUA is also concerned about misuse of TRT. produce . You should not take testosterone for non-medical reasons, such as body building, preventing What is or “Low-T”? aging changes or performance enhancement. Some men have low levels of testosterone. This is Men should not take TRT if they have normal called hypogonadism, or low-T. Men with low-T testosterone levels or if their testosterone may also have problems such as: levels have not been tested. If you have normal • reduced sex drive, testosterone levels, using TRT will not help your health problems. Also, if you are trying to father • less frequent sexual activities, a child, you should not be on TRT. TRT can • fewer and weaker erections, decrease your sperm count and . • less energy, Because of new, easier ways to take TRT, many • depressed mood or irritability, men have become aware that low-T might be causing their problems. Before you take TRT, a • less muscle mass and strength, doctor who is skilled in diagnosing low-T should • more body fat, examine you carefully. Your doctor should not • anemia (low iron), and prescribe TRT without taking an in-depth health history and giving you a physical exam and • loss of from bone. blood tests. Many of the symptoms for low-T can What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy be the result of other health problems. Other (TRT)? causes of symptoms need to be ruled out before testosterone is prescribed. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is approved by the FDA to treat men with Before you start TRT, your doctor should talk to hypogonadism (low-T). It most often comes in you about possible bad side effects. Side effects the form of , patches, injections (shots), and can include: pellets placed under your . • (pimples), What should you know about TRT? • swelling or soreness, Two recent studies have suggested that TRT raises • a high red blood count, the risk of heart attack in men. In February 2014, • swelling of the feet or ankles, the FDA stated they would study the risk of heart • smaller and attack, stroke and death in men taking TRT. • infertility. (Continued on next page) 2013 © Urology Care Foundation, Inc. Care 2013 © Urology

1000 Corporate Boulevard • Linthicum, MD • 21090 • www.UrologyHealth.org • 800.828.7866 Update for Men on Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

If your doctor prescribes TRT, you should have of testosterone. You should understand the regular check-ups. Your doctor should follow- possible benefits, side effects and risks before up with blood tests for testosterone level, PSA you start taking TRT. You should also know that and . (PSA is a test for issues today’s science does not offer final answers about including prostate . Hematocrit tests your whether taking TRT will increase your risk of red blood cell count.) Based on your health or heart disease. history, your doctor may want to follow up with This update is based on the American Urological Association’s other tests. Policy Statement on Testosterone Therapy, which is available online at www.AUAnet.org/about/testosterone-therapy.cfm The AUA encourages you and your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of taking 4/2014 testosterone replacement therapy. You should not be taking TRT if you do not have low levels 2014 © Urology Care Foundation, Inc. Care 2014 © Urology

1000 Corporate Boulevard • Linthicum, MD • 21090 • www.UrologyHealth.org • 800.828.7866