Replacement Therapy A significantly low level of testosterone in the body may require treatment. This hormone can be administered either in the form of tablets, injections, or through transversal systems.

Tablets can be taken orally, while injections are administered into the muscle tissues. On the other hand, the transversal system involves the use of skin patches and ointments or gels. Testosterone patches can be worn on the scrotum, abdomen, the back, buttocks, or on the arms, while the gels or ointments can be applied on shoulders, abdomen, or upper arms. All these methods of administering testosterone can be effective in alleviating the problems and symptoms associated with the deficiency of this hormone. So, this therapy can significantly increase mental and physical energy, libido, and muscle strength, and reduce anger, depression, irritability, tiredness, nervousness, and body fat. However, before recommending it, physicians usually evaluate the medical history of the individual and perform certain physical tests. Physicians usually try to find out if any kind of abnormality was present at birth, as well as the rate and extent of civilization or masculinization at the time of puberty, and the status of secondary male characteristics. A hormone screening is also performed to determine the level of testosterone in blood. 

The level of serum prolactin is also examined, as a Spartagen XT high level of this hormone may indicate that the pituitary gland is not functioning properly. Apart from these, the level of serum LH or luteinizing hormone is tested, as it helps distinguish a failure of the testes to produce sufficient amounts of testosterone from a deficiency resulting from the abnormality of the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland. Side Effects There can be several side effects that can be associated with this therapy, such as acne and oily skin, excessive growth of body hair, loss of scalp hair, and worsening of sleep apnea. It can also inhibit the endogenous production of testosterone. Sometimes, this therapy is recommended for women, especially to treat some postmenopausal symptoms, like reduction in libido. But this therapy can produce some serious side effects, like fluid retention, excessive growth of body hair, enlargement of the clitoris, and masculinization. On the other hand, the use of skin patches can cause skin irritation. The long-term use of testosterone replacement therapy can cause significant damage to the liver. It is also not suitable for people with prostate cancer, as this treatment can worsen the disease by stimulating the growth of cancerous cells. Therefore, one should opt for this therapy only under the supervision of a physician. 

The physician usually monitors the level of testosterone in the individuals undergoing this treatment at regular intervals, in order to prevent the complications associated with this therapy. The testosterone therapy seems a great solution to increase muscle mass, sharpen the memory and mental focus, boost libido, and improve energy levels. However, the benefits of this therapy to treat age-related problems in men still need proper research. Testosterone is the primary androgenic hormone responsible for normal growth and development of male sex organs and maintenance of secondary sex characteristics. Dr. Todd Nipped, M.D., Mayo Clinic Rochester said: "We just can't predict all the potential harmful effects of taking hormones even though on the surface they may seem beneficial." The classical testosterone therapy is administrated as a treatment to men with low testosterone levels (hypogonadism), but lately healthy aging men have started taking this therapy thinking it to be the ultimate anti-aging formula. Although this has a sound logic, there have not been extensive long-term studies on this subject. Therefore, the therapy must be looked at taking into consideration various side effects behind the evident positive effects. Even if there is not enough research on this subject, the possible risks of testosterone therapy include prostate problems and infertility. To check whether your testosterone level is lower than normal, have it tested by your doctor. This can be done by performing a blood test. 

There are some common symptoms that show a possible low testosterone level, but they can be misinterpreted. Therefore, it is recommended to have test done before you decide on whether you need this kind of therapy or not. The possible changes that occur in the body due to testosterone deficiency are: 1. Decrease in muscle mass and strength, with an increase in body fat. 2. Changes in cholesterol levels 3. Decrease in hemoglobin and possibly mild anemia 4. Fragile bones (osteoporosis) 5. Decrease in body hair 6. Changes in cholesterol and lipid levels 7. Decreased energy 8. Less sexual interest or potency 9. Depressed mood if you're experiencing the aforementioned signs and symptoms, then consult your doctor. This way you can get the proper help and he can determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment plan. The possible benefits and risks of testosterone therapy are mentioned here. Pros: - restore sexual function - prevent bone loss, and increase bone mineral density - protect against heart diseases (atherosclerosis) - improve muscle mass and strength - thicken body hair and skin - improve sexual desire - boost energy - decrease irritability and depression - improve cognitive function Cons: - stimulate noncancerous (benign) growth of the prostate - stimulate growth of prostate cancer that's already present - enlarge breasts (gynecomastia) - stimulate growth of breast cancer that's already present - cause testicle shrinkage (testicular atrophy) - limit sperm production (infertility) - stimulate excess blood production (polycythemia, that can lead to stroke) - skin reactions - fluid retention - baldness - cause or aggravate sleep apnea (brief, repeated cessation of breathing during sleep) - acne Make sure you find out what's known and not known about testosterone therapy before you start using it, so that you can make the best decision for you and your long-term health. 

Testosterone is the male hormone produced in the testes and the adrenal glands. It gives men certain definitive male characteristics such as facial hair, deeper voice, and higher muscle mass and aggressive behavior. Typically, the production of testosterone begins around the time of puberty. It starts to decrease slowly in your 30s; and drops by about 1% every year. However, sometimes the testosterone levels in men can drop due to various reasons. A decrease in the level of testosterone may cause loss of libido, impotence, loss of lean muscles, and increase in body fat, fatigue, and depression. This makes men prone to high blood pressure, bone fractures, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and sleep disorders. However, there is hope! One can increase the testosterone level with the right exercise and diet plan. This is the best way to get back to your normal testosterone level without using any medicine. Here is an outline of a simple procedure that will illustrate the point. Consult a professional and discuss the health issues that you have. This will help the professional devise the right exercise program for you. Similarly, a dietitian may help you work out the right diet plan. Don't go overboard. Try and lose one pound per week. There is no necessity of starving yourself and exercising. When you reduce intake of calories by 15% or more, the body reduces production of testosterone. Avoid getting into fad diets. 

These will not help you as you have a specific problem to counter. Stick to the exercises that are recommended by the professional. Don't lift weights that you cannot manage. The ideal workout regime should include exercises that involve several muscle groups. Eat the right foods. Foods, like peanuts are good for testosterone production. If you feel like having a midnight snack, go for such foods. Reduce intake of alcohol, coffee and tea. This helps with your exercise and diet regimen; and prevents depletion of testosterone in the body. This is because caffeine increases blood pressure and stresses the adrenal gland. Alcohol acts as a depressant and reduces the level of testosterone in the male body. Follow the diet plan. Eat a good breakfast, a nice lunch and a light dinner. Take enough rest. It is essential to get back to your normal testosterone level. Resting your body gives it time to revitalize and re-energize for the next day. This will also reduce fatigue and stress-related symptoms. In short, following a regular diet and exercise plan will help increase your testosterone level, and help you get back to your regular life. Testosterone is defined as 'a potent androgenic hormone produced chiefly by the testes and is responsible for the development of male secondary sex characteristics'. Very small amounts are also secreted by the adrenal glands. Normally, the level of testosterone in the blood should be between 350 - 1230 monograms per deciliter.