A review of studies attempted to determine the time-course of the effects induced by testosterone replacement therapy from their first manifestation until maximum effects are attained.
Causes of Low Testosterone and Benefits of Treatment
This review found that:
· Effects on sexual interest appear after 3 weeks plateauing at 6 weeks, no further increments beyond.
· Changes in erections/ejaculations may require up to 6 months.
· Effects on quality of life manifest within 3-4 weeks, but maximum benefits take longer.
· Effects on depressive mood appear after 3-6 weeks with a maximum after 18-30 weeks.
· First effects on erythropoiesis (increased red blood cells) after 3 months, peaking at 9-12 months.
· Prostate specific antigen and volume rise, marginally, plateauing at 12 months; further increase related to aging rather than therapy.
· Effects on lipids appear after 4 weeks, maximal after 6-12 months.
. Insulin sensitivity may improve within few days, but effects on glycemic control become evident only after 3-12 months.
· Changes in fat mass, lean body mass and muscle strength occur within 12-16 weeks, stabilize at 6-12 months, but marginally continue to improve over years.
. Effects on inflammation occur within 3 to 12 weeks.
· Effects on bone detectable after 6 months but continue at least for 3 years.
Onset of effects of testosterone treatment and time span until maximum effects are achieved
For information on how to prevent or reverse side effects of testosterone, click here:
Testosterone Side Effect Management Table
The following graph shows how many weeks it may take for maximum results
Causes of Low Testosterone and Benefits of Treatment
Causes, Benefits, and Timeline of Testosterone Therapy
Causes of Low Testosterone
Several factors can contribute to low testosterone levels, including:- Chronic health conditions: Liver disease, COPD, sleep apnea, renal disease
- Medication use: Glucocorticoids, opiates, ketoconazole (an antifungal), and anabolic steroids can suppress testosterone production
- Hormonal and metabolic disorders: HIV, hypertension, high cholesterol, infertility, obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome
- Genetic mutations: Some genetic mutations affect sexual development in boys
- Environmental and lifestyle factors: Aging, other hormone deficiencies (especially thyroid-related), nutrient deficiencies, and certain medications
Nutrients and Testosterone Levels
While supplementing with certain vitamins and minerals—such as magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin D, vitamin B6, and folate—may help if there is a deficiency, taking these supplements without a deficiency does not typically increase testosterone levels.Benefits of Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone therapy offers a range of potential benefits, including:- Cognitive and emotional improvements: Enhanced mood, cognitive function, and libido
- Physical and cardiovascular benefits: Increased stamina, improved cardiovascular health (men with low testosterone have a higher risk of heart disease), and improved body composition
- Metabolic improvements: Better glucose control and potential improvements in fertility (though prolonged use can reduce fertility)
- Exercise and functional capacity: Increased ability to perform physical activities
- Potential longevity benefits: Some studies suggest a link to increased lifespan, though data is limited
Timeline for Noticing Benefits
The time it takes to experience benefits from testosterone therapy varies based on individual factors such as age and existing health conditions. Below is a general timeline for different effects:- Inflammation reduction: 3–12 weeks
- Blood sugar control: 12–52 weeks
- Bone mineral density improvement: Takes the longest due to the slow process of bone formation
- Body composition changes: Up to 52 weeks
- Depressive mood improvement: As early as 3 weeks, up to 30 weeks
- Quality of life: Initial improvements within a few weeks, but effects may plateau over time
Sexual Health and Testosterone Therapy
- Erections and ejaculation: Some men experience stronger morning erections, while others do not, depending on various factors such as age and overall health
- Sexual interest: Often one of the fastest and most noticeable improvements, occurring within 3–6 weeks. Increased attraction to partners, heightened sexual desire, and greater motivation for sexual activity are common early signs of effectiveness
This review found that:
· Effects on sexual interest appear after 3 weeks plateauing at 6 weeks, no further increments beyond.
· Changes in erections/ejaculations may require up to 6 months.
· Effects on quality of life manifest within 3-4 weeks, but maximum benefits take longer.
· Effects on depressive mood appear after 3-6 weeks with a maximum after 18-30 weeks.
· First effects on erythropoiesis (increased red blood cells) after 3 months, peaking at 9-12 months.
· Prostate specific antigen and volume rise, marginally, plateauing at 12 months; further increase related to aging rather than therapy.
· Effects on lipids appear after 4 weeks, maximal after 6-12 months.
. Insulin sensitivity may improve within few days, but effects on glycemic control become evident only after 3-12 months.
· Changes in fat mass, lean body mass and muscle strength occur within 12-16 weeks, stabilize at 6-12 months, but marginally continue to improve over years.
. Effects on inflammation occur within 3 to 12 weeks.
· Effects on bone detectable after 6 months but continue at least for 3 years.
Onset of effects of testosterone treatment and time span until maximum effects are achieved
For information on how to prevent or reverse side effects of testosterone, click here:
Testosterone Side Effect Management Table
The following graph shows how many weeks it may take for maximum results
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