Testosterone has a significant role in men’s appearance and sexual development throughout their lives. It is also a key player in many other bodily functions, including sperm production and the development of muscle and bone mass. 

As men grow older, they undergo a hormonal change that could be compared to menopause in women. This "male menopause," or andropause, significantly reduces testosterone levels that can sometimes result in unwanted side effects. However, the symptoms of this testosterone deficiency can be alleviated with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Some men may experience a sudden and drastic drop in their testosterone levels as well as a sudden onset of symptoms. Others may have a more gradual decline in the production of the hormone while experiencing a slow appearance of symptoms. Some of the ways low levels of testosterone can manifest include:

• Low Sex Drive. While a decline in a man’s sex drive is a natural part of aging, men with low testosterone will sometimes experience a substantial drop in their sex drive.
• Erection Difficulty. When the body does not produce enough testosterone, there is no stimulation of the brain receptors that produce the nitric oxide needed for the chemical reactions that cause an erection. This is one of the common causes of erectile dysfunction during andropause.

• Hair Loss. Another function of testosterone is to aid in the production of hair. While hair loss is also an inherited trait, less testosterone in your body when you are older can also result in a loss of facial and body hair even when you aren’t predisposed to it.
• Changes in Mood. Testosterone also affects your mental faculties and mood. Men with reduced testosterone tend to be more depressed, distracted and irritable.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Low Testosterone

Bioidentical hormones are plant-based molecules that are derived from wild yam and soy. These molecules are manufactured in a lab to not only have the same molecular structures of hormones that are produced naturally but to also perform the same function. The cells in your body respond to the bioidentical hormones the same way they do to the hormones that the body produces on its own. 

With bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, the testosterone deficiency that your body undergoes as you age can help restore balance. It is a safe method for elevating your testosterone levels because the bioidentical hormones bind with your internal hormone receptors without initiating side effects seen in other types of therapies. The intensity of the therapy, or how many bioidentical hormones you will need, will be determined by your body’s unique physiology and chemistry. Our pharmacist can work closely with your physician to determine your unique formuation.

At Arena District Pharmacy, we offer private consultations with the pharmacist to discuss treatment plans for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men and women in Central Ohio. Contact us today to see how we can help you restore your testosterone levels.