Published on: 03.11.2025
Last updated: 27.07.2026
When your body's own levels are no longer sufficient
The testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medically indicated treatment used in men with diagnosed testosterone deficiency ("hypogonadism"). The goal is to restore hormonal balance, alleviate symptoms such as loss of libido, lack of motivation, or muscle loss, and stabilize physical and mental health in the long term.
When is TRT worthwhile?
TRT may be considered if
- Symptoms of testosterone deficiency are present (e.g., loss of libido or mood, declining performance).
- Blood tests, ideally over two morning measurements, show clear deficiency levels (< 12.1 nmol/l).
- Conditions such as sleep apnea, prostate cancer, and high hematocrit have been ruled out.
- A doctor-supervised assessment of a professional hormone panel has been carried out.
The Premium Testosterone Test by Adon Health is ideal at this stage: It measures testosterone, SHBG, LH, albumin, and PSA. This can be followed by a medical review via video call, perfect for those who want to obtain their levels independently and have them medically assessed. Determining LH and FSH helps narrow down the cause of testosterone deficiency. This makes it possible to distinguish whether the disorder lies primarily in the testicles or in the hormonal control system.
How does TRT work?
- Diagnosis via the TRT Check or in a medical setting
- Therapy decision: depot injection (e.g., testosterone enanthate), gel, or other forms
- Individual starting dose planned (e.g., 125–250 mg of testosterone enanthate every 1–2 weeks)
- Regular check-ups: blood tests (hormones, PSA, hematocrit), monitoring of therapy success
- Goal: bring testosterone into the upper physiological range, alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life
The dose is adjusted individually. Symptoms, laboratory values, and tolerability are decisive. The goal is a physiological testosterone level, not the highest possible value. The appropriate form of administration is chosen individually. Gels are applied daily, while injections are administered at larger intervals depending on the preparation.
Mechanisms of action & effects
TRT works on several levels:
- Increased libido and possible improvement in erectile function
- Muscle strength and mass increase, body fat decreases
- Energy levels improve, mental clarity returns
- Mood can stabilize
- Metabolism can improve, especially insulin sensitivity and liver function
The effect varies individually, but is usually noticeable within a few weeks (mood, libido) and lasts for months (body composition, sleep quality). The effect does not occur in all areas simultaneously. Libido, energy, and mood can improve after just a few weeks. Changes in muscle mass or body composition usually take more time.
Risks & side effects of TRT
Like any hormone therapy, TRT carries potential risks, which are well controllable when used under medical supervision:
- Elevated hematocrit (risk of thrombosis)
- Estrogen increase due to aromatization (breast tenderness, mood swings)
- Skin side effects, such as acne or hair loss (in cases of sensitivity to DHT)
- Inhibition of the body's own testosterone production (LH suppression)
- Reduced sperm production (relevant for those wishing to conceive)
- Potential effects on the prostate (with high doses or existing cancer)
👩⚕️ Crucial: Safe TRT requires regular blood tests, PSA testing, hematocrit monitoring, and medical supervision—exactly what Adon Health offers through the TRT Check and medical follow-up.
After discontinuation, sperm production can recover. However, how quickly and completely this happens varies individually.
Overview structure
| Trend / Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic path | TRT Check or medical check-up, including a comprehensive hormone panel |
| Therapy options | Depot injections (e.g., testosterone enanthate), gel, tablets |
| Monitoring parameters | Testosterone, SHBG, hematocrit, PSA, estradiol, LH, FSH, TSH, lipids |
| Success criteria | Better muscle tone, increased libido, improved mood, reduced body fat percentage |
| Risks/side effects | Blood count monitoring essential for safe use, regular prostate check recommended |
Conclusion
Testosterone replacement therapy is not a lifestyle hack, but a medically supervised intervention in your hormone network. With the right indication, implementation, and monitoring, it can significantly improve quality of life. TRT is often designed as a longer-term treatment. If it is discontinued, the original symptoms and low testosterone levels may reoccur.
If you suffer from symptoms such as loss of libido, fatigue, muscle loss, or sleep problems, it is recommended to start with a TRT Check by Adon Health, combined with further blog content and explanatory podcasts, to make informed decisions.