Testosterone  
As men age, the decline in male sex hormones, called androgens, may result in decreased muscular strength, energy, or libido and an increased risk of erectile dysfunction or depression. 

For men with a low level of free testosterone in the blood, testosterone or other hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be considered. HRT can help men with low testosterone levels increase their libido and sexual arousal.
 
Testosterone replacement also can improve muscle strength and bone mineral density in men with low levels of the hormone.
 
Androgens also promote an overall decrease in fat and an increase in muscle strength and lean body mass. Testosterone replacement therapy has been shown to lift mood and decrease anxiety. It may enhance orientation and memory and it may also have antidepressant effects.
 
Possible Side Effects
The goal of testosterone replacement therapy is to achieve normal levels of testosterone. For most patients, testosterone replacement therapy seems to be safe. Possible side effects, however, include water retention, male pattern baldness, gynecomastia (enlarged breasts). The oral forms are also associated with liver problems. The use of large doses of testosterone (in bodybuilding, for example) increases the risks of side effects.
 
Decreased Normal Testosterone Production
Prolonged or excessive testosterone therapy prompts the pituitary gland to stop producing the hormone gonadotropin. This in turn, suppresses normal testosterone and sperm production, accompanied by shrinkage of the testicles and frequent or continuing (and sometimes painful) erections. Because of this, testosterone replacement therapy is usually prescribed in cycles. After a period of time, the patient takes a different drug (such as HCG) that stimulates the testicles to begin production again.

Optimal Treatment 
The drug of choice for Testosterone replacement is Human (bio-identical) Testosterone, of course.  Many pharmaceutical companies produce natural testosterone, but their mode of delivery varies greatly.  From pellets to creams to injections (shots), which one is best?  Pellet therapy is ideal for men (and women).    These bio-identical pellets hormones, after being inserted under the skin, are readily absorbed directly into the bloodstream.  The body recognizes these as the exact hormone it no longer makes and uses it as its own.  Pellets release testosterone very slowly and continuously for 3-6 months!  No pills to remember, patches to wear, or injections to receive.  All it takes is just a brief visit a few times a year...that's it!

Conclusion
Listening, understanding and treating your hormonal decline can be very tricky and frustrating, but on the other hand, very rewarding when you obtain optimal hormonal balance.  Testosterone is the primary hormone. So here comes the next question.  "How in the world do I know if I'm deficient?"

This is precisely why all of our patients answer a Detailed Questionnaire and Dr. Pearsall performs a comprehensive physical exam and laboratory analysis. Your hormone balance is unique to you. Therefore, the hormone(s) prescribed will be specific to you according to your age, body size and history.