What Is TRT?

What Is TRT?

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) has become a hot topic lately as more men are looking for ways to combat the symptoms of low testosterone. As part of the natural ageing process, testosterone levels start to decline gradually after a man turns 30, and what’s commonly known as ‘male menopause’ sets in. While this decline is inevitable, Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a medical solution to help men restore testosterone balance and vitality in their lives.

Understanding Testosterone and Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone responsible for developing male physical characteristics, muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution and sexual function. In short, it’s what makes men feel and function on a daily basis. According to the British Society for Sexual Medicine, testosterone levels in men decline by about 1-2% per year from 30-40. As their natural testosterone production declines, many men start to notice the symptoms of low testosterone, commonly known as “Low T.”

The symptoms of this decline include fatigue, reduced motivation, low mood, anxiety, poor quality sleep, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, reduced, libido and erectile dysfunction. A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and decreased morning erections as the most reliable indicators of low testosterone in ageing men.

It is not uncommon for some of the above symptoms to be mistaken for depression, and often patients will have unsuccessfully tried antidepressant medications before finding their testosterone levels to be the cause of their symptoms.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment for men whose testosterone levels have declined to a level that is causing them unwanted symptoms. TRT helps restore normal testosterone levels, ease the symptoms of Low T and help men get back their energy, strength and confidence. TRT can be administered through creams, gels, patches or injections. The goal is to maintain consistent testosterone levels so as to achieve stability in the way that patients feel.

Learn more about our TRT services here.

What Does Testosterone Do?

1. Muscle mass and strength: Builds and maintains muscle tissue
2. Bone density: Supports bone mineral density
3. Fat distribution: The anabolic effect of testosterone means when levels are healthy the body is more likely to break down fat and build muscle under the right conditions
4. Red blood cell production: Stimulates red blood cell production - this can also be one of the main complications of TRT to look out for
5. Sexual function: Improves libido and erectile function, including morning erections
6. Mood and cognitive function: Mood, energy and cognitive abilities improve as well an improvement in sleep quality

A study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism highlights the importance of testosterone in men’s overall health: "Low Testosterone and Men’s Health," published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in May 2004. This publication emphasises testosterone's crucial role in male health, including its impact on sex drive, sperm production, muscle mass, and bone density. It discusses the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for low testosterone levels in men.

Discover our treatments for erectile dysfunction.

Why is Testosterone Important for Men?

Testosterone is important for many aspects of men’s health throughout their life:

1. Physical development: It drives the development of male characteristics during puberty
2. Muscle and bone health: It maintains muscle mass and bone density in adulthood
3. Sexual health: It is essential for libido and erectile function
4. Mood and cognition: It affects mood stability and cognitive function
5. Metabolic health: It plays a role in fat distribution and metabolism and reduces risk of cardiovascular disease

The key findings from the T4DM trial," published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology in 2021 shows the far reaching effects of testosterone on men’s health and the consequences of low testosterone. . This research investigated the effects of testosterone treatment on men with low testosterone levels and type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. The findings highlighted that testosterone therapy, combined with lifestyle interventions, led to significant improvements in body composition, sexual function, and glycemic control.

Learn more about our men's health services

What is Bound Testosterone?

Testosterone in the bloodstream exists in two forms: bound and free.

• Bound testosterone: This is testosterone that is attached to proteins such as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin. About 98% of testosterone in the blood is bound, though this proportion varies from patient to patient
• Free testosterone: This is not bound to proteins and is available for use by the body. Only about 2% of testosterone is free. Often if one is low in testosterone the body tries to combat this by lowering SHBG levels to increase the free proportion.

Both are essential markers of hormonal health. Research in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that, in some cases, free testosterone levels can provide a clearer picture of androgen status than total testosterone. However, since many laboratories calculate free testosterone based on estimates rather than directly measuring it (assays), this value may not always serve as a fully reliable indicator.

What are the Symptoms of Low T?

Low testosterone can lead to a range of adverse effects, including:

1. Decreased muscle mass and strength
2. Increased body fat, especially around the midsection
3. Reduced bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis
4. Hair loss
5. Reduced sexual function and libido
6. Mood changes, including depression, anxiety and irritability
7. Difficulty concentrating, brain fog and memory issues
8. Low motivation and energy levels
9. Hot flashes
10. Small or shrinking testes

A large-scale study published in the European Journal of Endocrinology found that low testosterone levels were associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, whereas reviews of the literature have shown that in these patients TRT can improve not only cardiac risk but also diabetic control

How Does TRT Work?

TRT supplements the body’s natural testosterone production. It aims to get testosterone levels back to normal range, usually between 9-35 nmol/L. This can be done through:

1. Topical applications: Creams, gels or patches applied to the skin
2. Injections: From between 2 to 3 per week to an injection every 12 weeks
3. Pellets: Implanted under the skin, releasing testosterone for several months

The method depends on the individual’s needs, lifestyle and preferences, as determined by one of our doctors.

What Is TRT - Testimonials

Andrew, Age 45, Accountant from Manchester

"TRT at Omniya has genuinely been a game-changer. The team’s responsiveness and willingness to work around my hectic schedule made a real difference. I never imagined such an improvement—my energy’s up, my focus is sharper, and I feel like I’ve got my vitality back."

Mr. Bailey, Age 42, Engineer from London

"The last six months with TRT have been remarkable. My energy, mood, and drive have never been better. Omniya’s team has been fantastic—they’ve guided me throughout, and I feel like I’m finally back in the driver’s seat of my life."

What is the Difference Between TRT, Testosterone, and HCG?

While TRT focuses on supplementing testosterone levels directly, Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is sometimes used alongside TRT to stimulate natural testosterone production and maintain fertility. HCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), which signals the testes to produce testosterone.

When the body detects adequate levels of testosterone in the blood it has a tendency to stop producing it’s own. Without an adjunct taken alongside TRT, there is a risk of the body’s natural production of testosterone (and sperm) being suppressed longterm. HCG maintains testicular production and keeps the production of natural endogenous testosterone and sperm going.

• TRT:  Supplements testosterone levels
• HCG: Stimulates the body's natural testosterone production.

"Low-Dose Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Maintains Intratesticular Testosterone in Normal Men with Testosterone-Induced Gonadotropin Suppression," published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2005. This research demonstrated that administering low doses of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) alongside testosterone therapy helps maintain intratesticular testosterone levels, which is crucial for preserving spermatogenesis and, consequently, fertility in men undergoing testosterone replacement therapy.

Is TRT Actually Good for You?

When administered correctly and monitored by healthcare professionals, TRT can be very beneficial for men with clinically low testosterone levels. A systematic review found that TRT can improve sexual function, mood, and quality of life in men with low testosterone.

But, like any medical treatment, it has potential risks and side effects that should be discussed with your doctor. These may include:

• Increased risk of blood clots
• Oestrogen related symptoms including gynaecomastia
• Acne or oily skin
• Sleep apnoea

To learn more about the potential risks, it is important to consult with your doctor. Some of the associated risks can be found in our blog posts. It's crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation by a doctor to determine if TRT is appropriate for you.

What Can You Expect from TRT at Omniya Clinic?

• Increased Energy and motivation: Say goodbye to that mid-day slump and regain the stamina you once had.
• Improved Muscle Mass & Strength: Get back in shape faster with enhanced muscle development.
• Enhanced Mental Clarity and sleep quality: Experience sharper focus and greater mental agility.
• Boosted Libido & Mood: Reignite your passion and feel more confident in every aspect of life.

At Omniya Clinic London, we know how low testosterone can affect your life. Our team of experienced professionals are committed to helping you feel stronger, more confident, and more like you again, so you can reclaim your energy and live fully.

Our personalised approach to TRT ensures that you receive the most effective treatment tailored to your needs. If you're experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, don't hesitate to reach out for a consultation with one of our specialists.

Book Your TRT Consultation Today

Rediscover Your Vitality with Personalised TRT Solutions

At Omniya Clinic, we know that every man’s journey is unique. Whether you're facing low energy, decreased muscle mass, or a dip in your confidence and mood, these symptoms can often be traced back to low testosterone levels. Our Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) with our team of experts, is designed to restore balance, helping you regain the vitality, drive, and well-being you deserve.