HRT for Men: Understanding Andropause and Treatment Options

By Dr. Debra Durst, MD – Founder, RevitalyzeMD

Andropause, often called male menopause, is the gradual decline of testosterone in aging men. Unlike female menopause, which happens relatively quickly, andropause develops slowly over years, typically beginning in the late 40s to early 50s.

Key Points:

• Definition: Male equivalent of menopause, marked by reduced testosterone production
• Onset: Usually begins in late 40s or early 50s

Progression: Symptoms often develop subtly and may go unnoticed for years

Low testosterone can affect physical, emotional, and sexual health.

Physical Symptoms

• Fatigue and decreased energy
• Reduced muscle mass and strength
• Increased body fat, particularly around the abdomen
• Hair loss
• Decreased bone density (risk of osteoporosis)

Emotional & Psychological Symptoms

• Depression or low mood
• Irritability or mood swings
• Reduced motivation and self-confidence
• Difficulty concentrating and memory issues

Sexual Symptoms

• Decreased libido (sex drive)
• Erectile dysfunction or difficulty maintaining an erection
• Reduced sexual satisfaction

Morning fatigue, lower energy, and waning vitality may all be subtle signals that testosterone is declining.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) helps alleviate symptoms of low testosterone and restore quality of life. Treatment is tailored to individual needs, with several delivery methods:

Testosterone Gels & Creams

• Application: Daily to shoulders or upper arms
• Pros: Easy to apply
• Cons: Risk of hormone transfer through skin contact; variable testosterone levels

Testosterone Patches

• Application: Worn on skin, usually applied daily
• Pros: Convenient, maintains consistent levels
• Cons: Can cause skin irritation

Oral Testosterone

• Application: Tablets or capsules
• Pros: Simple to take
• Cons: Less effective due to liver metabolism; potential liver toxicity

Preferred Options

Testosterone Injections

• Administration: Injected into muscles or subcutaneous tissue every 1–2 weeks
• Pros: Quickly raises testosterone levels
• Cons: Requires regular medical visits; injections may be uncomfortable

Testosterone Pellets

• Administration: Small pellets implanted under the skin, releasing testosterone over months
• Pros: Long-lasting effects, minimal maintenance

Cons: Minor surgical procedure required for implantation and removal

Testosterone replacement therapy can significantly improve energy, mood, muscle mass, sexual function, and overall vitality. The key is a personalized approach that addresses the “whole man” through:

• HRT tailored to lab results and lifestyle
• Supportive therapies like Peptides and Sexual Wellness Treatments

Monitoring for safety and effectiveness

Andropause can impact a man’s quality of life, confidence, and health, but Hormone Replacement Therapy offers effective solutions. Understanding your symptoms, exploring treatment options, and partnering with a qualified provider can help men navigate this phase with improved vitality, wellness, and sexual health.

📲 Book a consultation with RevitalyzeMD to explore personalized HRT and male wellness strategies.