Low testosterone (also known as hypogonadism or andropause) can be caused by a problem with the testicles, pituitary, or hypothalamus. If you are suffering from low testosterone, the treatment options available to you will depend on the underlying cause for the deficiency.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is an FDA-approved treatment for men with low testosterone. TRT comes in the form of gels, patches, injections and pellets.

Gel therapy: Testosterone gel is the most common form of TRT. In this therapy, gel or creme is rubbed into the skin directly. If you are using topical testosterone, care must be taken that the gel is dry before your skin comes in contact with another person.

Injections: Testosterone can be injected into the muscle every two weeks. Injections are most beneficial for men experiencing fertility issues.

Patches: TRT can also be administered by using a patch, applied nightly to the upper arm, thigh, abdomen or back.

Oral inserts: Testosterone undecanoate is a naturally occurring form of testosterone which can be absorbed when taken by mouth. This method tends to be more expensive and less effective than other forms of delivery, but it is a good option for men who cannot tolerate other forms of testosterone.

Long acting pellets: Testosterone pellets are small cylinders of testosterone which are surgically implanted into the fat of the buttocks where testosterone is absorbed into body over the course of several months. This delivery method is not safe for older men at risk for prostate cancer.

If your low testosterone is caused by problems with your pituitary gland, your doctor can give you pituitary hormones. If problems with your pituitary stem from a tumor, surgery, medication or radiation treatment, your doctor may administer testosterone replacement therapy.

Lifestyle Changes

Other factors which may contribute to your low testosterone are drug and alcohol use, obesity, or a diet high in animal products.

Medication for chronic illness such as diabetes or hypertension may also depress your hormone levels. Beta blockers interfere with nerve impulses and may compromise your hormone levels. Alternative treatment to beta blockers include antihypertensives (such as calcium beta blockers) which don't interfere with sexual function. H2-receptor antagonists (Tagament and Zantac) can also interfere testosterone levels.Your doctor can work with you to implement lifestyle changes in your diet and sleep habits.

Finding the Right Treatment

When you begin treatment for low testosterone, your urologist will conduct a detailed medical assessment. Your doctor may also consider where hormone production is being disrupted by running diagnostic tests such as semen analysis, pituitary imaging, or testicular biopsy.

As men age, their testosterone levels decrease naturally. TRT is not recommended for the normal aging process because there are a number of risks involved with treatment.

Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of testosterone replacement therapy, and what the best treatment options are for you.