Plate III · Hormone Optimisation for Men & Women

Testosterone Therapy

Testosterone affects energy, muscle mass, mood, and libido in both men and women. Learn about personalised testosterone replacement therapy.

Overview

Testosterone is often thought of as a male hormone, but it's vital for both men and women. Levels naturally decline with age, but symptoms of low testosterone can significantly impact quality of life at any age.

Observed presentations

Signs & symptoms.

  • 01Low energy and fatigue
  • 02Decreased muscle mass
  • 03Reduced libido
  • 04Mood changes and depression
  • 05Difficulty concentrating
  • 06Increased body fat
  • 07Decreased bone density

Sections in Plate III

  1. ISection

    Low Testosterone in Men

    Male testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but some men experience more significant drops leading to symptoms of hypogonadism. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help restore healthy levels and improve quality of life.

  2. IISection

    Testosterone for Women

    Women produce testosterone in smaller amounts, but it plays crucial roles in energy, libido, and muscle tone. Low testosterone in women can occur naturally with age or after surgical menopause.

  3. IIISection

    Customised Delivery Methods

    We compound testosterone in various forms: topical creams and gels, sublingual troches, oral capsules, and pellets. Each delivery method has unique advantages, and we can help determine the best option for your lifestyle and needs.

  4. IVSection

    Monitoring and Safety

    Regular blood testing ensures testosterone levels remain in the optimal range. We work with your healthcare provider to adjust dosing as needed and monitor for any side effects.

Common questions

Questions, asked often.

  • No. While men typically need higher doses, testosterone plays important roles in women's health too, affecting energy, libido, muscle tone, and mood. Women's testosterone levels also decline with age, and low-dose testosterone therapy can be beneficial for many women, particularly after menopause.
  • When properly dosed and monitored, side effects are minimal. Potential side effects include acne, oily skin, increased red blood cell count, and mood changes. In women, excess testosterone can cause unwanted hair growth or voice deepening, which is why precise dosing is crucial. Regular monitoring helps prevent and manage any side effects.
  • Most people notice improvements in energy and mood within 3-4 weeks. Changes in body composition (muscle mass, fat distribution) typically take 3-6 months. Libido improvements vary but often occur within 6-12 weeks. Full benefits usually manifest within 6 months of optimised treatment.
  • In men, testosterone therapy can suppress sperm production, so it's not recommended for men actively trying to conceive. However, fertility usually returns after stopping therapy. Women's fertility is less affected, but this should be discussed with your prescriber if pregnancy is a consideration.
  • Creams provide steady, daily absorption through the skin, offering stable hormone levels. Injections deliver larger doses less frequently (weekly or bi-weekly), creating peaks and troughs. Creams are more convenient for many people, while injections may be preferred by those who want less frequent dosing. We can compound both and help determine what works best for you.

After this plate

Where to next.

Back to the compendium

Notice to the reader

Educational, not prescriptive.

Hormone therapy requires medical supervision. This plate is reviewed by our pharmacy team but isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Speak with your prescriber before beginning, altering, or stopping any hormone therapy.