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testosterone
What exactly is male hypogonadism?
What exactly is male hypogonadism?
Hypogonadism in men is a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. Hypogonadism can cause various symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, mood swings, and erectile dysfunction. The causes are diverse, but the following forms can generally be distinguished:
Primary hypogonadism: Primary hypogonadism occurs when the problem lies directly in the testicles. In this case, the testicles do not produce enough testosterone – regardless of signals from the brain. Possible causes include genetic factors (as in Klinefelter syndrome), physical damage (e.g., from injuries), or damage from chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Secondary hypogonadism: In secondary hypogonadism, the problem lies in the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus – two glands in the brain that release hormones to regulate testosterone production in the testicles. Causes can include genetic abnormalities, tumors (e.g., a prolactinoma), infections, or certain chronic diseases.
Tertiary hypogonadism: Tertiary hypogonadism is an alternative term for a disorder of the hypothalamus that affects the pituitary gland and thus indirectly alters testosterone production in the testes. The causes are similar to those of secondary hypogonadism and include genetic disorders, tumors, and other diseases that affect the hypothalamus.
Functional hypogonadism: Functional hypogonadism refers to reduced testosterone production that is not caused by direct problems of the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus, but rather by external factors or lifestyle conditions. These include factors such as obesity, chronic stress, metabolic disorders, or long-term illnesses.
How can I find out if I have hypogonadism?
How can I find out if I have hypogonadism?
Hypogonadism is always diagnosed by a doctor. This involves considering clinical symptoms as well as blood tests that determine your testosterone levels and other relevant parameters.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone levels?
What are the symptoms of low testosterone levels?
Possible symptoms of low testosterone levels or testosterone deficiency include:
- Reduced sex drive/libido
- Erectile dysfunction/decrease in morning erections
- Decline in cognitive performance
- Tiredness/Exhaustion
- Loss of muscle mass/decline in athletic performance
- Increase in body fat/increased waist circumference
- Reduced body hair
- Lack of motivation and depressive mood
- General mood swings
- Sleep problems/restless sleep
I am an active professional athlete – am I allowed to use testosterone or get tested?
I am an active professional athlete – am I allowed to use testosterone or get tested?
The use of testosterone in sports is subject to strict anti-doping rules. Violations can lead to bans of several years.
Athletes should strictly adhere to the official information provided by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) before any application or therapy.
There you will find:
- All current regulations regarding testosterone,
- Information on the application process for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs),
- As well as the relevant documents and forms.
Official source: NADA – Testosterone in sports
All binding and authoritative information is available exclusively on the official NADA website.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
For whom is testosterone replacement therapy suitable?
For whom is testosterone replacement therapy suitable?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be suitable for men of any age with low or borderline low testosterone levels who have signs and symptoms of hypogonadism and for whom contraindications to therapy have been medically ruled out.
What are the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy?
What are the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can offer a number of potential benefits, particularly for men with clinically diagnosed testosterone deficiency. It is important to emphasize that TRT should only be used in cases of diagnosed testosterone deficiency and under medical supervision.
Potential key benefits include:
1. Improved libido and sexual function: One of the most common effects of testosterone deficiency is a decrease in libido or sexual desire. TRT can help improve sexual desire and erectile function, which can lead to a more satisfying sex life.
2. Increased energy and overall well-being: Low testosterone levels can lead to fatigue, lack of energy, and a general feeling of malaise. Many men report increased energy and an improved quality of life after starting TRT.
3. Improvement of muscle mass and body composition: Testosterone plays a key role in building and maintaining muscle mass. TRT can increase muscle mass and reduce body fat percentage, especially when combined with regular exercise.
4. Positive effects on bone density: Testosterone contributes to bone health, and a deficiency can lead to a decrease in bone density. TRT can help increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
5. Improved mood and mental clarity: Testosterone deficiency can lead to mood swings, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Normalizing testosterone levels can alleviate these symptoms, contributing to better mental clarity and a more stable mood.
6. Possible positive effects on the cardiovascular system: Some studies suggest that well-monitored TRT may have positive effects on the cardiovascular system, although research in this area is not yet complete.
Are there risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy?
Are there risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy?
As with any medical treatment, testosterone replacement therapy also carries potential risks – you should discuss with your doctor how these may apply to you before starting therapy in order to make an informed decision:
- Headache
- Hot flashes
- insomnia
- High blood pressure
- acne
- Emotional lability
- Skin irritation at the application site
- nervousness
- Temporary infertility during therapy
- Person-to-person transmission of the drug during testosterone gel therapy (e.g., to women, children)
In recent years, large-scale and highly regarded studies have generally ruled out significant side effects of testosterone replacement therapy, such as the development of prostate cancer or an increase in cardiovascular risk . Of course, you will receive detailed information about potential side effects during your initial consultation with your doctor.
How much does testosterone replacement therapy cost?
How much does testosterone replacement therapy cost?
The costs for potential testosterone therapy can vary depending on the doctor, the type of therapy, and individual circumstances. Generally, the following costs may arise when using Adon Health:
- Laboratory test (entry test)
The first lab test costs €99.90 .
- Medical consultation
The consultations with the treating, independent doctors are billed according to the German Medical Fee Schedule (GOÄ).
The cost per appointment is usually between €90 and €100 .
Follow-up appointments are usually cheaper (approx. €60-70 ) because they involve less effort on the part of the doctor.
An initial consultation takes place before any potential therapy, a first check-up appointment after about 4 weeks, and then usually every 3 months.
- Laboratory test (progress test)
A regular laboratory check is usually scheduled every 3 months.
The cost for this is €97.50 (including service fee) .
- Medication costs
If a doctor prescribes testosterone therapy, the costs depend on the medication and dosage.
Typically, prices range from €30 to €70 per month .
The products are dispensed exclusively through pharmacies.
Note: The medical decision regarding therapy and the prescription of medication rests solely with the treating, independent physicians.
Treatment
Can I easily stop my TRT?
Can I easily stop my TRT?
You can stop TRT at any time. However, it is important that you do not stop TRT abruptly, but rather discuss the discontinuation of therapy with your treating physician.
How does the therapy work?
How does the therapy work?
In most cases, treatment with testosterone enanthate or testosterone gel is prescribed by a doctor if treatment is deemed necessary. Testosterone enanthate is injected weekly or bi-weekly, depending on the doctor's recommendation, while the testosterone gel is applied to the skin once daily. You will discuss the exact application with your doctor before starting treatment. Further instructions can be found in the package insert.
Can I increase the dosage of my medication?
Can I increase the dosage of my medication?
Dose adjustments should always be made only in consultation with your treating physician.
What happens if I can't use the medication for a while?
What happens if I can't use the medication for a while?
It's best to avoid interrupting the therapy. However, if you don't use the gel for a few days, it's not dangerous. Your testosterone levels will simply drop slightly without you having to worry about serious side effects.
What are the side effects of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)?
What are the side effects of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)?
Like any therapy, TRT has potential side effects. These include, among others:
- Increased red blood cell count (polycythemia) – This can increase the risk of thrombosis, which is why regular blood tests are important.
- Temporary reduction in fertility – TRT can inhibit the body's own testosterone production and sperm production. In many cases, this normalizes after discontinuing the therapy.
- Skin changes – Increased sebum production can lead to acne or oily skin.
- Hormonal fluctuations – Mood swings can occur, especially at the beginning of therapy.
- Gynecomastia (breast growth) – In rare cases, an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen can lead to an enlargement of breast tissue.
Previously feared side effects such as an increased risk of cardiovascular disease or prostate cancer could not be confirmed by large, high-level studies.
Nevertheless, medical supervision is essential to ensure that the therapy is safe and tailored to the individual.
What should I do in an emergency?
What should I do in an emergency?
Emergencies are very unlikely during TRT. However, should an unexpected medical emergency occur, please call emergency services immediately at 112 or go to an emergency room.
Could further tests be necessary in addition to the regular blood tests?
Could further tests be necessary in addition to the regular blood tests?
Depending on the results of the lab tests and your presentation of symptoms, further examinations may be necessary, some of which cannot be covered solely via telemedicine. This may require an appointment with your general practitioner, and possibly also with a specialist. Your doctor will discuss the next steps with you during your consultation.
Can the costs be covered by health insurance? If so, which ones?
Can the costs be covered by health insurance? If so, which ones?
Unfortunately, reimbursement by statutory health insurance (GKV) is not possible, as this is a purely private medical treatment.
Private health insurance (PKV) can generally cover part of the costs. However, this depends on the individual insurance contract, and coverage cannot be guaranteed.
Medical consultations are billed according to the German fee schedule for physicians (GOÄ). These fees, as well as any necessary medication, are generally reimbursable by private health insurance providers.
However, laboratory tests for home use cannot be reimbursed, as these are lifestyle tests that cannot be billed according to the German fee schedule for physicians (GOÄ).
For more detailed information, we recommend contacting your private health insurance company directly.
Can I deduct the costs of my treatment from my taxes?
Can I deduct the costs of my treatment from my taxes?
Yes. The costs for medical treatments, laboratory analyses, medications and accessories within the scope of a medically necessary therapy (e.g., in the case of diagnosed testosterone deficiency / hypogonadism) are generally considered extraordinary expenses according to § 33 EStG and are therefore tax deductible.
Whether the costs lead to an actual reimbursement in a given case depends on the so-called reasonable burden, which varies depending on income, marital status and number of children.
Tip: Keep all invoices and payment receipts (e.g., Adon invoices, doctor's invoices according to the German Fee Schedule for Physicians (GOÄ), pharmacy receipts) and include them in your tax return.
Our service
For whom is Adon Health's offer generally suitable?
For whom is Adon Health's offer generally suitable?
Adon Health is aimed at men who suspect they may have low testosterone levels or who have already been diagnosed with a testosterone deficiency. Through our platform, you gain access to independent doctors who will take a holistic approach to your lab results and symptoms during a consultation.
Your doctors will decide whether and which treatment options are medically appropriate in your case. If you don't have a testosterone deficiency, your doctor can provide helpful tips and recommendations on how to positively influence your hormone levels and lifestyle factors.
Do I need a prescription to use testosterone therapy through Adon Health?
Do I need a prescription to use testosterone therapy through Adon Health?
Yes. Testosterone therapy is administered exclusively with prescription medications and therefore always requires a doctor's prescription. The decision regarding a possible therapy rests solely with the treating physician.
In addition, Adon Health is working to expand its offering in the future to include supportive options such as nutritional supplements and behavioral approaches that can also be used without a prescription.
How do Adon Health blood tests work?
How do Adon Health blood tests work?
We use capillary blood tests. You simply take a few drops of blood from your fingertip – quickly and conveniently from home. The samples are then analyzed in a certified partner laboratory. You can find out more about the process on our website.
How will I know when I will receive my test (result)?
How will I know when I will receive my test (result)?
We will keep you updated via email about the current delivery status, and
Evaluation status.
Here is an overview of the approximate time periods:
- Ordering and shipping of the test kit: After ordering, you will receive the
Test kit within 3-5 working days. - Test administration and return: Once you have completed the test
If you have performed the procedure, please send it to our laboratory as soon as possible.
Back. Please note that shipping usually takes 1-2 business days. - Evaluation of test results: After the sample arrives at the laboratory, it takes
The evaluation usually takes 5-7 business days. As soon as the results are available, you will...
You will be informed via email. - Doctor's appointment: After receiving the test results, you can schedule an appointment directly.
Book an appointment for a consultation with one of our independent partner doctors. Availability depends on the doctors' schedules, but appointments are usually available within 1-2 weeks. - Medication delivery (if required): After your consultation and prescription, your doctor will optionally deliver the medication through our partner pharmacy. This delivery typically takes an additional 3-5 business days.
How can I schedule a doctor's appointment?
How can I schedule a doctor's appointment?
Once you have completed your initial test and received your results, you can choose a suitable time for your doctor's appointment ( appointment for first
Book a consultation with an independent cooperating physician. If you have already been tested elsewhere, you can book an appointment here .
How do I receive the medication after I have been prescribed it?
How do I receive the medication after I have been prescribed it?
Depending on your choice of pharmacy, you can pick up the medication on site as soon as you receive your prescription, or you will receive it by mail within 3-5 working days if you choose the mail-order pharmacy.
How do I receive the medication after I have been prescribed it?
How do I receive the medication after I have been prescribed it?
Depending on your choice of pharmacy, you can pick up the medication on site as soon as you receive your prescription, or you will receive it by mail within 3-5 working days if you choose the mail-order pharmacy.
Can I use any pharmacy to fill my prescription?
Can I use any pharmacy to fill my prescription?
Yes, you can freely choose from all pharmacies in Germany to fill your prescription.
How does further aftercare and support work?
How does further aftercare and support work?
Medical follow-up care is provided by the treating physicians who will accompany you throughout your therapy. Approximately 3–4 weeks after starting treatment, your doctor will usually recommend a follow-up appointment to review your test results and progress. At this appointment, if medically appropriate, a longer prescription valid for several months can also be issued.
A further blood test is usually recommended after about 3–4 months. Your doctor will determine the exact intervals for blood tests and consultations individually with you.
Adon Health provides organizational support: We remind you of upcoming appointments and blood tests and ensure you receive all important information in a timely manner. This way, you can keep track of your therapy and concentrate on what matters most.
For general questions about the process, you can contact our support team at any time: support@adon-health.de . You will also receive a patient handbook from us with tips and recommendations for everyday life, which will support you alongside your medical care.
Where can I find scientifically sound information about TRT?
Where can I find scientifically sound information about TRT?
For more information about testosterone and TRT, you can check out our blog, men's health podcast, or our newsletter.
How can I obtain a TRT through Adon Health?
How can I obtain a TRT through Adon Health?
The first step is a lab test to give you initial information about your testosterone levels. We will then arrange an appointment for you with an independent doctor. There, you will discuss your lab results, symptoms, and possible treatment options.
Whether testosterone therapy is medically appropriate for you is determined solely by your treating physician, based on current guidelines. If TRT is an option, a further control test is usually performed before starting therapy. With a doctor's prescription, you can then either have the medication conveniently delivered to your home or fill it at a pharmacy of your choice.
How do I ask my doctor a question?
How do I ask my doctor a question?
After you have chosen a treating physician, a detailed consultation will take place regularly via video call to monitor your progress. The first consultation is usually scheduled approximately 3-4 weeks after starting therapy, and subsequent consultations typically take place every 3 months. Your treating physician will determine the intervals between these appointments with you. You can use these appointments to ask any questions you may have about your therapy. It is important to be as transparent as possible to ensure you receive the best possible treatment.
How can I book an appointment with an external lab result?
How can I book an appointment with an external lab result?
If your lab results meet the necessary criteria, you can easily schedule an appointment with one of our independent partner physicians via our appointment booking page . Our team will then contact you and explain how to securely submit your results. The medical evaluation and any further steps will be carried out exclusively by the treating physician.
How does the follow-up supply of medication work once the first prescription is used up?
How does the follow-up supply of medication work once the first prescription is used up?
Approximately three weeks after starting therapy, you should schedule another appointment with your doctor. During this appointment, the doctor will review your progress and, if medically necessary, issue a new prescription. This prescription is usually valid for several weeks until your next appointment (after about three months).
The duration of a prescription depends on the preparation and dosage – for testosterone gel, the first prescription usually covers about 35 days, for injections such as testosterone enanthate about 4 weeks.
You can either have the prescribed medication delivered to your home or obtain it with the prescription from a pharmacy of your choice.
What happens to my data?
What happens to my data?
As a service provider in the medical field, data protection is our top priority. Your personal data is strictly protected and will only be used with your consent. Data will only be shared with third parties if legally required or if you have explicitly consented, for example, with treating physicians, health insurance companies, or for billing purposes.
We are subject to the applicable General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Your data will be stored for the duration of the treatment and for at least 10 years afterwards, or longer if required by law.
You have the right to access, correct, or delete your data, as well as the right to withdraw your consent to data processing. The processing primarily serves treatment and medical care, but may also be used for research purposes, in which case the data will be anonymized. We will send you a detailed list of data processing activities before you use our service.
