In short
TRT tops up testosterone in men whose bodies don’t make enough, to bring levels back to normal. It’s prescribed after blood tests, by injection, gel or cream.
On this page
TRT stands for testosterone replacement therapy. It’s a medical treatment that tops up testosterone in men whose bodies don’t make enough, to bring levels back into the normal range. It’s prescribed by a doctor after blood tests, and it isn’t the same as taking steroids to build muscle.
What testosterone does
Testosterone is made mostly in the testes. It drives sex drive, erections and sperm production, and helps maintain muscle, bone strength, red blood cells, mood and energy.
When levels are too low
Doctors call it hypogonadism or androgen deficiency. The cause is either in the testes, or in the pituitary gland in the brain, which tells the testes to work. Symptoms include low sex drive, fewer morning erections, tiredness, low mood and loss of muscle. See signs of low testosterone.
How TRT is given
| Form | How often | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Long-acting injection | About every 10 to 14 weeks | Given into the buttock by a doctor or nurse. Steady levels. |
| Shorter-acting injection | Every 2 to 3 weeks | Levels rise and fall more between doses. |
| Gel or cream | Daily | Applied to the skin. Has to be kept off partners and children until dry. |
What it can and can’t do
In men who are truly low, sex drive and energy often improve within weeks, mood over a couple of months, and muscle, fat and bone over many months. It doesn’t help men whose testosterone is already normal, and for them the risks outweigh any benefit.
TRT versus steroids
The medicine is the same hormone. The difference is the dose and the purpose. TRT aims for the normal range under a doctor’s care. Steroid use for bodybuilding takes many times that amount, without monitoring, and carries far higher risks.
The trade-offs
- It switches off your own testosterone and sperm production while you’re on it. See TRT and fertility.
- It can thicken the blood, so regular blood tests are part of treatment. See TRT side effects.
- It’s usually ongoing.
For how it’s prescribed and paid for here, see TRT 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
- Healthy Male: Testosterone replacement therapy
- Yeap BB, et al. Endocrine Society of Australia position statement on male hypogonadism. Medical Journal of Australia. 2016.
- Healthdirect Australia: Testosterone
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.