In short
TRT is a prescription treatment for men with confirmed low testosterone. In Australia it takes a consult and two morning blood tests, and PBS rules decide whether it’s subsidised.
On this page
TRT, or testosterone replacement therapy, is a prescription treatment for men whose bodies don’t make enough testosterone. In Australia a doctor can prescribe it once symptoms and two morning blood tests confirm the diagnosis. Whether it’s subsidised depends on PBS rules.
Who it’s for
Men with symptoms of low testosterone and blood tests that confirm it. The clearest cases are men with a problem in the testes or the pituitary gland, for example after injury, surgery, chemotherapy or a genetic condition. It isn’t for men with normal levels who want more energy or muscle.
How it works in Australia
- A consult. A GP goes through your symptoms, health and medicines.
- Two morning blood tests. Total testosterone, fasted, on different mornings, with the pituitary hormones LH and FSH.
- A diagnosis, and a search for the cause. Weight, sleep apnoea, some medicines and other illnesses lower testosterone and are dealt with first.
- A decision about treatment. If it’s appropriate, your doctor explains the forms, the risks and what monitoring involves.
- Follow-up. Blood tests in the first few months, then at least yearly.
See how to get TRT in Australia for each step in detail.
PBS or private
The PBS subsidises testosterone when two morning results are below 6 nmol/L, or between 6 and 15 nmol/L with a high LH, or when there’s an established pituitary or testicular disorder. A specialist such as an endocrinologist or urologist has to be involved. Men who don’t meet those rules can still be prescribed it privately when a doctor judges it appropriate, and pay the pharmacy’s full price. See TRT cost in Australia.
The forms available
- Long-acting injection. Given by a doctor or nurse about every 10 to 14 weeks.
- Shorter-acting injection. Every two to three weeks.
- Gel or cream. Applied to the skin every day.
What to weigh up
- It lowers sperm production, so it isn’t suitable if you’re planning children soon. See TRT and fertility.
- It needs regular blood tests for as long as you’re on it. See TRT side effects.
- It’s usually long term. Stopping returns you to where you were.
The law
Testosterone is a Schedule 4 prescription-only medicine, and each state and territory adds its own controls. Having it without a prescription is an offence everywhere in Australia.
Next step: talk to a GP
Request an appointment and we’ll be in touch to arrange a time. A consultation doesn’t guarantee a prescription.
References
- Yeap BB, et al. Endocrine Society of Australia position statement on male hypogonadism (parts 1 and 2). Medical Journal of Australia. 2016.
- Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme: Testosterone
- Healthy Male: Testosterone replacement therapy
This guide is general information, not medical advice. It doesn’t replace a consultation with a doctor who knows your history. In an emergency, call 000.