Testosterone is a hormone found in the body. While it is a hormone attributed to males, females also utilize this hormone, although less frequently. Women create lower levels of testosterone within the ovaries which helps to manage moods, regulate sex drive, and maintain healthy energy levels. Men develop testosterone in the testicles, and in a larger amount than women. For men, testosterone helps with sex drive, semen production, energy maintenance, mood regulation, bone density, and muscle mass. While it’s possible for women to be affected by low testosterone, the condition is usually diagnosed amongst the male population.

What are the Causes of Low Testosterone?

Causes of low testosterone, or hypogonadism to the medical world, can be either primary or secondary. Primary causes mean that there is something wrong with the production of testosterone within the testes. Secondary causes mean that low testosterone is a result of damage to the brain or hormonal glands which help with testosterone production.

Primary Causes of Low Testosterone Levels Include:

  • Injured testicles
  • Klinefelter’s Syndrome (born with three sex chromosomes)
  • Undescended testicles
  • Hemochromatosis (increased iron levels)
  • Mumps
  • Chemotherapy

Secondary Causes of Low Testosterone Levels Include: 

  • Aging 
  • Obesity 
  • Specific Medications (opiates and steroids)
  • HIV or AIDS 
  • Inflammatory diseases 
  • Pituitary diseases 
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What are the effects of Low Testosterone?

While it’s most common for men to realize they may be suffering from low testosterone levels due to changes in sex drive, there are other health concerns and symptoms that come with experiencing low testosterone. The effects of low testosterone may include:

  • Loss of body hair 
  • Reduced energy levels
  • Feelings of sadness or depression
  • Weight gain 
  • Decreased bone density 
  • Inability to obtain an erection 
  • Reduced muscle mass 
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Utilizing Low Testosterone Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy is usually available in a spray or topical gel solution, like AndroGel 1.62%. These therapies are helpful in increasing testosterone levels for men who are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone. But, these therapies aren’t right for everyone. Only your doctor can determine if this solution can be helpful for your medication regimen.

Getting Help Paying for Low Testosterone Therapy Options

Unfortunately, while treatment may help, it may not be affordable for those with low or no health insurance coverage. But, with patient assistance programs, more and more patients are finding out that the cost of their needed medications may be covered or discounted. If you’ve been given a prescription for low testosterone therapy, visit our website to see if your treatment may be covered or discounted through our program.