Risks & Benefits:

It is important to Reviving Wellness that you understand the risks and benefits associated with Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) before beginning or continuing treatment. TRT is not a new area of medicine, however the treatment modalities employed by Reviving Wellness may involve innovative therapies. The hormones that may be prescribed as part of treatment may include Testosterone, as well as other treatments for thyroid function, and Vitamins D and B12, where indicated. Testosterone therapy is a treatment that may be used to raise a man’s sexual interest, muscle mass, or physical function. Testosterone may also enhance mental clarity and focus.

Testosterone therapy has been shown in some instances to increase sexual function, improve, bone density, decrease body fat and cellulite, improve collagen in the skin decreasing wrinkles, and increase lean muscle mass.

Side Effects:

There are a number of potential side effects related to TRT which could include bloating, breast swelling and tenderness, fluid retention, weight gain, liver cysts, mood swings, acne, hair growth, sleep apnea, heightened cholesterol levels, or increased red blood cells (secondary erythrocytosis which is not harmful, NOT polycythemia vera). In some patients, there could be increased risks of blood clots, stroke, gallbladder disease, or high blood pressure. Each man’s own risks can vary depending upon his health history and lifestyle.

For male patients with low blood testosterone levels, the benefits of hormone replacement therapy for men usually outweigh potential risks. However, for most other men it's a shared decision with your provider.

FDA INFO:

When a drug is approved for medical use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the manufacturer produces a “label” to explain its use. Once a medication is approved by the FDA, physicians may use it “off-label” for other purposes if they are well-informed about the product, base its use on firm scientific principles and sound medical evidence, and maintain records of its use and effects.

Testosterone is approved by the FDA only for use in men. However, only in levels less than 300. This is a problem! Many men have symptoms of low Testosterone long before their level reaches 300 or lower. Many men are turned away by their providers due to this. At Reviving Wellness, we treat symptoms not numbers. We strive to achieve the Free Testosterone levels you had back in your 20s & 30s. Ironically, you didn’t have a stroke back then at those levels! Because TRT treatment in levels greater than 300 is “off label” your health insurance likely will not provide coverage for Testosterone therapy. This means that you will be required to pay for these services at the time they are rendered.

You can learn more about side effects and contraindications for these drugs by contacting your Provider or the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.