Testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS)

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Our team offers leading-edge, evidence-based treatment options for people living with low testosterone.

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Testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS), also known as low testosterone or hypogonadism, is a condition in which blood testosterone levels fall below a defined threshold. It can lead to symptoms such as reduced muscle strength, low libido, fatigue, mood changes, memory difficulties and erectile dysfunction (ED).

One recent study helped define testosterone ranges in young men by measuring sample testosterone levels obtained during the conduction of several large studies in a central Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lab¹. This study revealed that 303 ng/dL was the fifth percentile value among healthy non-obese patients between 19 and 39 years of age. Therefore, a cutoff of 300 ng/dL is not unreasonable to use. It’s important to remember that a lab result alone cannot diagnose TDS — symptoms must also be present to confirm the condition.

If you are diagnosed with testosterone deficiency syndrome, our team can help you navigate the risks and benefits of testosterone replacement as well as testosterone replacement options.

1. Travison TG, Vesper HW, Orwoll E, Wu F, Kaufman JM, Wang Y, et al. Harmonized Reference Ranges for Circulating Testosterone Levels in Men of Four Cohort Studies in the United States and Europe. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2017 Apr 1;102(4):1161–73.

When synthesizing what has been written about testosterone replacement in medical journals, it’s safe to say that most men will have improvement in sex drive and libido. Improvement in other areas such as mood, vitality, energy and strength is not as well defined or predictable. Erections may improve in some patients, but there is rarely a drastic improvement. Some studies do suggest that testosterone replacement may help medications like Viagra and Cialis work better².

2. Clavijo RI, Ramasamy R. Testosterone Replacement Should be Given to Men with Erectile Dysfunction: Pro. J Urol. 2017 Feb 1;197(2):284.

Testosterone, blood count and estrogen levels along with studies such as PSA levels, and other hormone levels (as needed) will be monitored with periodic blood tests.

There are several treatment options available. We typically start by checking your insurance coverage. If your preferred treatment isn’t covered, we can help you explore affordable alternatives, such as generic or compounded options, when available.

Treatments may include:

• Intramuscular injections of testosterone enanthate or cypionate
• Patches
• Gels and creams
• Intranasal sprays
• Pellet implants (TESTOPEL)