Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is still a widely misunderstood and stigmatised topic. As more and more people become aware of the treatment, either because they’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, actively considering TRT, or simply curious, open discussion is important.
The Alphagenix team recently sat down with our Lead Clinician, Dr Max Draper, to answer some of the questions we commonly get asked about TRT.
What are the Common Causes of Low Testosterone?
I often see men blame their testicles. After all, this is where the majority of male testosterone is produced. However, issues with brain chemistry can be just as responsible.
Additionally, physical trauma, testicular cancer, brain injuries, or past radiation can all contribute.
That being said, what I’m seeing increasingly in younger men is lifestyle-driven causes:
- Excess body fat and visceral fat
- Poor sleep
- Chronic inflammation
- Unmanaged stress
- Environmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
What are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone can manifest in a wide range of symptoms, which can be split across three areas:
- Mental: brain fog, poor concentration, apathy, low mood, anxiety
- Physical: constant fatigue, persistent aches, disrupted sleep
- Sexual: reduced libido, fewer morning erections, weaker performance
When considering if your symptoms are significant enough to pursue blood testing for testosterone, you don’t need to have all of the above; just one or two persistent symptoms should be reason enough.
What are the goals of TRT?
My approach with TRT is two-fold:
- Alleviate symptoms – help you feel sharper, more energetic, and mentally balanced.
- Improve long-term well-being – support better health, mood, and potentially longevity.
Many people have the misconception that a TRT plan is the means to achieve fitness goals or become “more manly”. Everyone will have different goals, but in my professional experience, TRT allows our patients to unlock the potential we all have inside of us.
Is TRT the same as taking steroids?
No. Steroids are typically used in the gym or other athletic settings to push beyond natural limits and grow abnormal muscle mass.
TRT is simply a medical treatment aimed at correcting testosterone deficiency. Yes, you may regain lost strength or experience better workouts as a result, but the primary goal here is restoring your normal hormone balance.
How can TRT benefit mental health?
There is great variance in how testosterone levels affect a patient’s mental health, although lower levels do typically have a detrimental effect due to the resulting physical symptoms.
Once hormone levels are balanced following TRT, most patients report clearer thinking, sharper motivation, and reduced brain fog. Mood also often improves, and many tell me they manage stress more effectively and sleep better.
It’s very much a cumulative effect, as more focus and less anxiety lead to better rest, more energy, and an overall better mental health. It’s still up to the individual to put the effort into looking after themselves, but I’ve found TRT helps give them the tools to do so.
Does TRT contribute to heart disease?
No. In fact, untreated low testosterone appears to increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. The research suggests that restoring testosterone to physiological levels can reduce those risks by improving lipid profiles, lowering inflammation, and enhancing well-being.
Does TRT cause prostate cancer?
This is a common myth. Current evidence does not link TRT to higher prostate cancer risk. If anything, low testosterone may be detrimental to prostate health. Of course, we always screen and monitor prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as part of good clinical practice.
Who should get their testosterone checked?
Testosterone deficiency can occur in anyone regardless of age or sex. However, men are more likely to be affected due to higher amounts of testosterone and free testosterone. Data indicates that around 1 in 4 men over the age of 40 exhibit signs of suffering from low testosterone.
In my opinion, it’s worth getting tested if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms I covered earlier, regardless of your background. Having a full hormone analysis from your bloods can screen for a variety of imbalances, not just testosterone. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Alphagenix team if you want to discuss your symptoms.
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Dr Max Draper ↔️ TRT Specialist
Max is a former NHS GP with over 10 years of clinical experience. After facing his own challenges with Low Testosterone, he dedicated himself to raising awareness and supporting men with similar issues through education and advocacy. He shares insights via his podcast and Instagram, Max your T. Outside of work, Max is passionate about fitness, wellness, and family life with his wife Katy and their two children.