Low Testosterone Health Center

Low testosterone may develop naturally as a man ages. This is comparable to women entering menopause past their middle age. However, there are a number of ways men can boost their testosterone production.

Talk to your doctor about the reasons you may have lower testosterone levels. While the condition may be natural and age-appropriate for some, it may seem abrupt and without cause to others. If you don't think you are at the right age to have low testosterone, you may wish to jump-start possible treatment options on your own, after checking in with your doctor. 

Stop smoking, if you are a smoker, and cut out alcohol as much as you can. A healthy diet and regular exercise can lower your weight, which may take off excess pressure from the organs that produce testosterone. By eating less and beginning a positive exercise regimen, you could lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, which could help in the production of testosterone.

Talk to your pharmacist about the medications you are taking. Some prescription medications, such as opiate pain medications, heart medications, some supplemental hormones and other medications, can affect testosterone levels.

If you have prostate cancer, ask your doctor if your treatment is at play in any erection difficulties.

If you and your doctor decide that testosterone replacement therapy is right for you, there are several formulations available:

• Transdermal testosterone is when the hormone is absorbed through the skin from a patch worn for 24 hours a day (Androderm).
• Testosterone gels are formulations rubbed on the skin by hand (AndroGel, Axiron, FIRST-Testosterone, FIRST-Testosterone MC, Fortesta, Testim).
• Testosterone injections are formulations injected directly into the body (Andro LA 200, Delatestryl, Depandro 100, Depo-Testosterone).
• Testosterone mouth patches deliver the hormone through the gums in a tablet used twice a day (Striant).
• Testosterone pellets can be implanted in the skin to slowly release the hormone (Testopel).