madman
Super Moderator
My guest today is one of the country’s most respected medical experts on TRT, otherwise known as testosterone
He’s an authority in using testosterone to help males improve muscle tone and strength, and enjoy more energy and improved health.
Dr. Larry Lipshultz is a Professor of Urology and Chief of the Scott Department of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine.
Recognized as a leading expert on men’s health, Dr. Lipshultz is a highly respected author, editor, teacher, and lecturer.
Dr. Lipshultz instituted a fellowship training program in male reproductive medicine and surgery that has trained more than 110 physicians who are now in practice.
Dr. Lipshultz, who holds the Smith Chair in Reproductive Medicine; received his medical training at the University of Pennsylvania; and received fellowship training at The University of Texas at Houston as the first American Urological Association (AUA) research scholar.
So today we hope to give you guys all the answers on
14:18-16:12
testicular shrinkage
*so we give them something called hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) they do a shot and injection subcutaneously once a week and we can prevent loss of testicular size
fertility
*We give them high doses of hCG and high doses of something called FSH and they can mix them together, give themselves injections three times a week, and we can literally get them back to where they were
*the other thing we're looking at now though is can these individuals also take low-dose testosterone at the same time so they don't suffer from having the recurrence of the symptoms that made them take testosterone to begin with and I don't know the answer to that yet, it looks very encouraging that once we get sperm production going with hCG and FSH, we can introduce testosterone to some degree, but I don't have the data yet 100%
24:28-24:59
advice for men thinking about testosterone therapy
*well again you know it's baby steps it's you know take if your going to a doctor and he's going to offer testosterone for some type of complaint and they have low testosterone don't jump in with very high levels of testosterone therapy I mean go start low because you may get a lot of benefit at a very low level
This needs to be hammered home on all those forums!
We keep it real here.
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Introduction to Dr. Larry Lipschultz and TRT Misconceptions
Host (Lee Labrada): My guest today is one of the country's most successful experts on TRT, Dr. Larry Lipschultz. Welcome to the show. There seems to be a lot of misconceptions about TRT.
Dr. Lipschultz: I'm glad you asked that. Actually, I don’t like the name “TRT.” We’re not really replacing testosterone; we’re supplementing it.
Addressing the Stigma Around TRT
Host: For the longest time, there’s been a stigma. Some people think TRT is just for men with erectile dysfunction.
Dr. Lipschultz: That’s absolutely not the case. There are many misconceptions around testosterone therapy.
Dr. Lipschultz’s Background and Contributions
Host: Dr. Lipschultz is Professor of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine and has trained over 110 physicians. He’s recognized as a leading expert in men’s health.
Dr. Lipschultz: I was inspired to enter urology by a role model during my time at Penn. I just wanted to follow his path.
Understanding Testosterone Therapy vs. Replacement
Dr. Lipschultz: We’re not "replacing" testosterone. Unlike women with estrogen, men don’t stop producing testosterone. I prefer the term "testosterone therapy."
Clarifying Who Needs TRT
Host: So who is a candidate for testosterone therapy?
Dr. Lipschultz: FDA guidelines indicate it’s for those with low testosterone. But this definition is often too rigid, as optimal testosterone levels vary by age.
Challenges with Insurance and Low Testosterone Coverage
Dr. Lipschultz: To get insurance coverage for testosterone, patients need levels under 300 nanograms per deciliter, which isn’t always fair, especially for younger men.
The Medical Community’s Hesitance Around TRT
Host: Why has the medical community been slow to accept testosterone therapy?
Dr. Lipschultz: Misleading studies have linked testosterone to cardiovascular risks. However, upon further research, we’ve found no clear connection.
Testosterone Therapy and Heart Health
Host: Does testosterone therapy increase cardiovascular risk?
Dr. Lipschultz: No, it doesn't. We conducted a study showing that men with higher testosterone had fewer cardiovascular markers.
Addressing Cancer Concerns with Testosterone Therapy
Host: Can testosterone cause cancer?
Dr. Lipschultz: Testosterone doesn’t increase cancer risk. The prostate can only absorb so much testosterone. Beyond a certain level, there’s no growth response or cancer risk.
Testosterone and Hair Loss
Host: Does testosterone cause hair loss?
Dr. Lipschultz: It can, as testosterone converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which influences hair loss. But medications like finasteride can help manage this.
Benefits of Testosterone Therapy
Host: What are the benefits of testosterone therapy?
Dr. Lipschultz: It helps with energy, muscle mass, weight management, and mood for those with low testosterone levels.
The Role of Estrogen in Obesity and Testosterone Therapy
Host: Obesity can increase estrogen levels in men, right?
Dr. Lipschultz: Yes, body fat converts testosterone to estrogen. Managing weight can help reduce estrogen levels.
Age and Testosterone Therapy Considerations
Host: Does testosterone therapy slow down aging or reduce disease risk?
Dr. Lipschultz: For men with low testosterone, it can have positive effects. But it’s controversial for those whose testosterone is not classically low.
Testicular Shrinkage and Fertility with TRT
Host: Can TRT cause testicular shrinkage?
Dr. Lipschultz: Yes, if the body stops producing testosterone naturally. HCG can help maintain testicular size and function.
TRT and Fertility in Younger Men
Host: Can TRT affect fertility?
Dr. Lipschultz: With proper management, we can restore fertility. It’s beneficial to get a semen analysis as a baseline.
Anabolic Steroids vs. Testosterone Therapy
Host: Is testosterone therapy the same as anabolic steroids?
Dr. Lipschultz: Testosterone itself is anabolic. However, certain steroids are more potent and have different effects on the body.
Concerns for Athletes and High-Dose Testosterone
Host: What should athletes taking high doses of testosterone watch for?
Dr. Lipschultz: Regular monitoring is crucial, particularly of blood markers and lipid profiles, as high doses can impact health.
Testosterone Therapy and HDL Levels
Host: Does testosterone affect cholesterol?
Dr. Lipschultz: It can lower HDL (good cholesterol), but the effect is less severe with standard testosterone than with more potent anabolic steroids.
Cardiovascular Health in Athletes Using Steroids
Host: Are there cardiovascular risks for athletes on anabolic steroids?
Dr. Lipschultz: It’s hard to isolate testosterone, as many use other hormones like growth hormone, insulin, and thyroid hormones, which add complexity to cardiovascular risks.
Considerations for Men Considering Testosterone Therapy
Host: Any advice for men considering testosterone therapy?
Dr. Lipschultz: Start with a low dose and ensure you’re under a doctor’s care. Seek a doctor knowledgeable in this field.
Risks of Low-T Clinics and Non-Physician Managed Facilities
Host: What do you think of "Low T" centers?
Dr. Lipschultz: Some are well-run, but many are not managed by physicians. It’s best to see a specialist for proper management.
Psychological Benefits of Testosterone Therapy
Host: Does TRT affect mood or mental health?
Dr. Lipschultz: Many patients experience life-changing improvements in energy and mood, though the response is highly individual.
Conclusion and How to Get Started with Testosterone Therapy
Host: What’s the first step for those interested in TRT?
Dr. Lipschultz: Get tested, and if levels are low, consult with a specialist in your area. There are trained physicians in many cities across the U.S.
Parting Advice for Men Exploring TRT
Host: Thank you, Dr. Lipschultz, for an informative discussion on TRT. This has been eye-opening.
Dr. Lipschultz: Thank you, Lee. I hope this helps clear up some misconceptions about testosterone therapy.
Show Closing
Host: Thank you, everyone, for tuning into The Lee Labrada Show. Please like, share, and subscribe. God bless, and we’ll see you next time!
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