Answers Center
Start with a question.
Searches this library of physician-reviewed answers. It does not diagnose or provide personal medical advice.
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Treatment and safety
Are compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide FDA approved?
No. Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide products are not FDA-approved, and FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness or quality before they are marketed.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
Are generic sildenafil and tadalafil as effective as Viagra and Cialis?
FDA-approved generics contain the same active ingredient and must meet the same standards for strength, quality and performance as the brand-name medicines.
Healthy aging
Are injectable NAD+ and glutathione proven longevity treatments?
No. Injectable NAD+ and glutathione are not proven longevity treatments; evidence for broad anti-aging benefit in humans is limited, and sterile compounding quality is a genuine safety concern.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
Are labs included in the testosterone monthly price?
No. Labs are separate from the testosterone program price. New patients pay $70 for the first month, then $140 per month.
Low testosterone
Can a pituitary problem cause low testosterone?
Yes. Low testosterone can start in the testes (primary) or in the pituitary or hypothalamus that signal them (secondary). LH and FSH tests help tell the two apart.
Treatment and safety
Can erectile dysfunction be a sign of heart or blood vessel problems?
Sometimes. ED shares risk factors with heart disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and smoking, so guidelines recommend looking at overall cardiovascular health.
Cost and what to expect
Can I come to his appointment?
If he wants you there, ask the office how a partner can be included. It's his visit, so he decides who joins.
Healthy aging
Can I give NAD+ injections myself at home?
Yes, after instruction. MMI shows patients how to self-administer before they begin at home, and you can ask questions at follow-up.
Cost and what to expect
Can I request a call on his behalf?
You can request a callback for yourself using your own name and number to ask general questions. Please don't enter his details; he can reach out when he's ready.
Cost and what to expect
Can I start treatment on the day of my first visit?
Sometimes, when it's clinically appropriate and recent labs are available, but it isn't guaranteed. Many men start after their lab results are reviewed.
Treatment and safety
Can I take testosterone if I am planning to have children in the next few years?
Standard testosterone replacement therapy is generally not recommended if you are planning to have children soon, as it significantly suppresses sperm production.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
Can I take testosterone if I've had blood clots?
Tell your clinician first. Testosterone labeling warns about blood clots, and TRAVERSE found more pulmonary embolism with testosterone, so a past clot needs careful review.
Healthy aging
Can lifestyle changes or weight loss raise low testosterone without medication?
Yes, significant weight loss, resistance exercise, improved sleep, and metabolic optimization can naturally increase testosterone levels in many men with borderline deficiency.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
Can low testosterone affect bone health?
Yes. Testosterone helps maintain bone density, and men with low testosterone can have lower bone density. In a T Trials bone substudy, a year of treatment increased bone density in older men with low levels.
Low testosterone
Can low testosterone cause brain fog, fatigue, and low motivation?
Yes, low testosterone is frequently associated with persistent fatigue, reduced mental sharpness, and diminished motivation, though these symptoms can also stem from other medical conditions.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
Can low testosterone cause erectile dysfunction, or are they separate issues?
Low testosterone primarily reduces sexual desire and libido, whereas erectile dysfunction is predominantly a vascular and neurological issue, though the two conditions frequently overlap.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
Can medications affect testosterone levels?
Yes. Some medicines, including opioids and glucocorticoids, can lower testosterone. Bring a list of everything you take so your clinician can consider it.
Treatment and safety
Can testosterone therapy affect blood pressure?
Some testosterone products can raise blood pressure, and the FDA's 2025 labeling update addresses blood pressure across testosterone products. Blood pressure is checked as part of follow-up.
Treatment and safety
Can testosterone therapy affect sleep apnea?
The Endocrine Society guideline recommends against starting testosterone in men with untreated severe obstructive sleep apnea. If you snore heavily or stop breathing at night, mention it before treatment.
Low testosterone
Can testosterone therapy improve sexual desire?
In men with confirmed low testosterone, treatment has been shown to modestly improve sexual desire and activity. It is not recommended as a way to raise desire when testosterone levels are normal.
Low testosterone
Does a low sex drive always mean low testosterone?
No. Low desire can come from stress, sleep, mood, relationship strain, medications or other health conditions, and low testosterone is only one possibility. An evaluation with repeat morning labs helps sort out the cause.
Treatment and safety
Does alcohol affect how ED medicines work?
Heavy drinking can make erections harder and, combined with sildenafil or tadalafil, can increase the chance of dizziness or a drop in blood pressure. Moderation is the safer approach.
Cost and what to expect
Does less intimacy mean he has low testosterone?
Not necessarily. Changes in intimacy can come from stress, sleep, health, medications or other factors. Only an evaluation can say whether hormones play a part.
Treatment and safety
Does testosterone therapy affect fertility?
Yes. Testosterone therapy typically suppresses the body's own hormone signaling and can substantially reduce sperm production, so it should not be started casually by a man who hopes to father children in the near term.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
Does testosterone therapy cause hair loss or acne?
TRT can accelerate male pattern hair loss in genetically predisposed men and may cause acne by increasing oil production in the skin.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
Does testosterone therapy treat erectile dysfunction?
Not usually on its own. In men with confirmed low testosterone it may modestly help erectile function, but PDE5 medicines remain the usual first treatment for ED.
Cost and what to expect
How can I bring up his health without it feeling like criticism?
Choose a calm, private moment, share what you've noticed with care, and ask how he's been feeling. Listening first usually works better than suggesting a diagnosis.
Cost and what to expect
How can I support him once he starts care?
Be encouraging about follow-up visits and lab checks, and keep the conversation open about how he's feeling. Let him lead his own care.
Cost and what to expect
How can we talk about shared goals for his health?
Focus on what you both value, such as energy for time together, sleep, activity or long-term health, rather than on a single symptom.
Treatment and safety
How do daily low-dose tadalafil and as-needed ED medications compare?
Daily low-dose tadalafil maintains a continuous therapeutic level for spontaneous sexual activity and urinary symptom relief, whereas as-needed medications are taken shortly before anticipated intimacy.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
How do I find out what NAD+ therapy costs?
Call the office. NAD+ pricing is separate from testosterone pricing, and the team can explain it based on your plan.
Cost and what to expect
How do I transfer my existing TRT prescription to Men's Medical Institute?
Transferring your TRT care requires scheduling an in-person evaluation with Dr. Mimlitz and providing your prior diagnostic labs, treatment history, and current prescription details. Most times we can continue your treatment without interruptions.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
How do physicians manage common gastrointestinal side effects from GLP-1 treatments?
Physicians manage GI side effects through gradual dose titration, smaller meal sizes, reduced dietary fat intake, and adequate hydration.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
How do sildenafil and tadalafil work?
Both are PDE5 inhibitors. They help relax blood vessels in the penis so an erection can happen with sexual stimulation. They do not cause an erection on their own.
Low testosterone
How do sleep apnea and poor sleep affect testosterone levels and energy?
The majority of daily testosterone production occurs during deep and REM sleep, so sleep apnea and fragmented sleep directly blunt nocturnal hormone synthesis and cause daytime exhaustion.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
How do testosterone injections, creams and pellets differ?
They differ in how often they are used, how steady the resulting levels are, how easily therapy can be adjusted or stopped, and in practical issues such as transfer risk with topical products. Topical products can transfer to others through skin-to-skin contact; approved gels carry a boxed warning about secondary exposure. Pellets cannot be adjusted quickly and require a minor procedure to place. All routes share the class risks and monitoring requirements of testosterone therapy. Compounded creams are not FDA-approved, and absorption cannot be assumed to match an approved gel. Availability and insurance coverage vary and may limit practical options. This page does not provide dosing or administration instructions.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
How does follow-up work once I'm a patient?
Existing patients don't use rigid online booking. You choose a day and approximate time, and the nursing team works with you, including on rescheduling.
Healthy aging
How does physician-monitored longevity care differ from buying supplements online?
Physician-monitored care relies on diagnostic blood testing, validated clinical evidence, pharmaceutical-grade sourcing, and safety surveillance rather than unverified online marketing.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
How does semaglutide support weight management?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that slows gastric emptying and acts on appetite regulation, and the FDA-approved weight-management product is indicated alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
How does tirzepatide support weight management?
Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, affecting appetite and food intake, and the FDA-approved weight-management product is indicated together with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
How is low testosterone diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires both symptoms or physical signs and consistently low serum testosterone, confirmed with repeat morning testing when appropriate.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
How is the NAD+ schedule at MMI structured?
Injections are usually three times a week. In the first month, the prescribed dose is about twice the later maintenance dose; after that it steps down, and Dr. Ted adjusts it to you.
Low testosterone
How long after starting testosterone therapy do men typically notice changes in energy or libido?
Improvements in sexual interest and mood often begin within 3 to 6 weeks, while noticeable changes in energy, body composition, and muscle mass typically take several months.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
How long is a new-patient evaluation at MMI?
A new-patient evaluation is about 30 minutes with Dr. Ted. Labs are drawn during the visit if needed, and the office confirms details when it calls you.
Cost and what to expect
How much does testosterone replacement therapy cost at Men's Medical Institute?
At Men's Medical Institute, ongoing testosterone replacement therapy is $140 per month, with a discounted rate of $70 for the first month for new patients.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
How often will I need blood work once my testosterone dose is stabilized?
After initiating therapy, MMi will check your bloodwork around 9-12 weeks and then consider adjustments. Once your testosterone levels, hematocrit, and PSA are stable on therapy, blood work is typically performed every 6 to 12 months.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
How will I know whether NAD+ therapy is worth continuing?
Talk it through at follow-up. Your clinician reviews how you're feeling against the goals you set at the start, and together you decide whether to continue, adjust or stop.
Cost and what to expect
I'm already an MMi patient. How do I request a refill?
Call or text our staff to request your refill. They will let you know if anything is needed before it is ready.
Treatment and safety
Is erectile dysfunction the same as low desire?
No. Erectile dysfunction is difficulty getting or keeping an erection; low desire is reduced interest in sex. They can happen together but have different causes and treatments.
Healthy aging
Is injectable NAD+ FDA-approved?
Injectable NAD+ is not an FDA-approved drug product for anti-aging or wellness. When prescribed, it is typically prepared by a compounding pharmacy, and compounded drugs are not FDA-approved.
Healthy aging
Is injectable NAD+ the same as NAD+ supplements?
No. Supplements usually contain precursors such as nicotinamide riboside or NMN that the body converts to NAD+. Injectable NAD+ is a prescription preparation given under clinician direction.
Low testosterone
Is lower testosterone just a normal part of aging?
Average levels drift down slowly with age, but not every older man has low testosterone or needs treatment. Symptoms plus confirmed low labs are what guide an evaluation.
Healthy aging
Is testosterone therapy approved for low testosterone caused by normal aging?
No. FDA-approved testosterone products are indicated for low testosterone associated with certain medical conditions, and labeling specifically notes that safety and efficacy have not been established for age-related decline alone.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
Should I think about sperm banking before starting testosterone?
If you may want children later, ask about it before treatment starts. Because testosterone can reduce sperm production, some men choose to discuss banking or other options first.
Cost and what to expect
Should we talk about family plans before he starts testosterone?
Yes. Testosterone can reduce sperm production, so if children are a possibility, it's worth raising before treatment begins.
Treatment and safety
What are the important risks and limits of testosterone therapy?
Testosterone therapy can raise red blood cell counts and blood pressure, suppress fertility, worsen sleep apnea in some men, and cause local or skin-related effects — and it is not a treatment for symptoms that have another cause.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What can cause erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction usually has more than one contributor — vascular disease, diabetes, blood pressure, medications, hormonal factors, neurologic conditions, sleep, alcohol, and psychological or relationship stress all play a role.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What did the TRAVERSE trial find about testosterone and heart risk?
In TRAVERSE, men with low testosterone and higher cardiovascular risk who received testosterone did not have more major heart events than those on placebo over the study period. Some other risks were higher.
Healthy aging
What does NAD+ do in the body?
NAD+ is a molecule found in every cell. It helps carry energy in metabolism and is used by enzymes involved in DNA repair and cell signalling.
Cost and what to expect
What happens after I request a call?
An MMI team member calls you to talk through a time for your evaluation. Your request is not a booked appointment until the team confirms it by phone.
Cost and what to expect
What happens at a testosterone evaluation?
A focused conversation about symptoms, medical history, medications and goals, a physical examination where appropriate, and laboratory testing — followed by a visit to interpret the results together. An evaluation is not a commitment to treatment, and not everyone evaluated will be a candidate. Some men need additional testing or referral before any decision can be made. Results can take time; a careful answer is better than a fast one.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What happens if I decide to stop testosterone replacement therapy?
Stopping TRT causes circulating testosterone to decline to pre-treatment levels or temporarily lower, often accompanied by a transient return of fatigue and low mood while natural production restarts. Many of the issues that brought patients to seek replacement will return.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
What happens to weight and appetite when someone stops taking a GLP-1 medication?
Medications for chronic weight management are designed as long-term tools; stopping them removes the biological brake on hunger. Long-term success depends heavily on preserving lean muscle mass and establishing sustainable nutritional habits during active treatment.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
What if he isn't ready to talk about it?
That's okay. Let him know you're there when he is, and leave the door open. Pressure tends to make the conversation harder.
Treatment and safety
What if the first ED medicine I try doesn't work?
That is common and worth reporting. Timing, food, dose adjustments by your clinician or switching medicines can help, and other options exist if pills are not enough.
Treatment and safety
What is gonadorelin and what is its role?
Gonadorelin is a form of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, the hypothalamic signal that prompts the pituitary to release LH and FSH. These hormones drive testicular testosterone production and sperm production. Gonadorelin is indicated for men seeking to maintain and preserve fertility, and to reduce testicular shrinkage—an uncommon side effect of TRT.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What is HCG and why is it discussed in men's hormone care?
HCG is a hormone product with specific FDA-labeled uses, including prepubertal cryptorchidism, selected cases of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in males, and ovulation induction in women. Its role for any individual man depends on diagnosis, fertility goals, labs and clinical judgment.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
What is sermorelin and what does the evidence support?
Sermorelin is a growth-hormone-releasing hormone analogue. The FDA-approved sermorelin products were indicated for pediatric growth hormone deficiency and for diagnostic evaluation of pituitary growth-hormone secretion, and those products were discontinued.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
What is tesamorelin actually FDA approved to treat?
Tesamorelin is FDA-approved to reduce excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It is not approved as an anti-aging, general weight-loss or muscle-building therapy.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide acts on the GLP-1 receptor, while tirzepatide acts on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors; their approved indications, labeling details and individual tolerability differ.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
What is the difference between subcutaneous and intramuscular NAD+ injections?
Subcutaneous injections go into the fatty layer under the skin; intramuscular injections go into muscle. MMI supports both, and your clinician helps choose what suits you.
Treatment and safety
What is the difference between tadalafil and sildenafil?
Both are PDE5 inhibitors, but they differ in duration of action, how food affects them, their labeled uses and their side-effect patterns.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
What is the difference between total testosterone and free testosterone on my lab report?
Total testosterone measures all circulating testosterone in your bloodstream, while free testosterone measures the small fraction unbound to proteins that is immediately accessible to your tissues. A low free testosterone number can fluctuate significantly from moment to moment and must always be interpreted in the context of clinical signs and symptoms, not in isolation.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What is TriMix and when is it considered?
TriMix is a compounded injectable combination used for erectile dysfunction. It is not an FDA-approved combination product, and it is generally considered only when other approaches have not worked or are not appropriate.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
What lab tests are required before starting testosterone therapy?
Required baseline tests include at least two morning total testosterone measurements, free testosterone, a complete blood count (hematocrit), PSA, and comprehensive metabolic and lipid panels.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What monitoring is needed during testosterone therapy?
Testosterone therapy requires ongoing follow-up: symptom review, testosterone levels, blood count, blood pressure, and prostate-related assessment appropriate to your age and history.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What options exist for erectile dysfunction if oral PDE5 inhibitors stop working?
Second-line options include intracavernosal injections (such as TriMix), intraurethral suppositories, vacuum erection devices, and referral for penile prosthesis surgery.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
What should I bring or prepare if I am transferring TRT from an online clinic?
Bring your original diagnostic lab results, recent follow-up blood work, current prescription details with exact dosages, and relevant medical records to your in-person visit.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, and any recent lab results you have. The office can tell you if anything else is needed.
Treatment and safety
What should I do if an erection lasts four hours?
Seek emergency medical care immediately. An erection lasting four hours or more is a medical emergency called priapism, and delay can cause permanent damage.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What should I expect during my first 30 to 60 days on testosterone therapy?
During the first 30 to 60 days, your body acclimates to therapy, early improvements in mood and libido may appear, and routine follow-up labs are scheduled to verify dosing safety. Physique changes may take longer, and should be noticeable by 2 or 3 months.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What should men know about phentermine?
Phentermine is an FDA-approved appetite suppressant indicated for short-term use as an adjunct to diet and exercise in weight reduction, and it is not appropriate for everyone.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
What should men know about testosterone and cardiovascular or prostate health?
FDA removed the class-wide boxed cardiovascular warning in 2025 after trial evidence, while adding blood-pressure warnings; prostate assessment and ongoing monitoring remain part of responsible care.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
What should men understand about peptide therapy before starting treatment?
Men should understand that peptides vary widely in their scientific evidence, regulatory approval status, and clinical indications, requiring careful physician evaluation. Peptide therapies should not be viewed as miracle cures for aging or substitutes for foundational sleep, exercise, and metabolic health. Unregulated online sourcing carries significant risks of contamination, inaccurate dosing, and lack of sterility.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
What side effects can NAD+ injections cause?
Reported effects include injection-site discomfort and, for some people, flushing, nausea or a general feeling of discomfort around the time of the injection. Tell your clinician about anything you notice.
Cost and what to expect
When are lab results usually ready?
When MMI draws labs, results are generally available the next morning. The team then talks with you about results and any questions.
Cost and what to expect
When are new-patient evaluations offered?
Monday to Wednesday 9 AM to 4 PM, Thursday 9 AM to 5 PM, and Friday 9 AM to 2 PM. Request a call or phone the office to find a time.
Treatment and safety
Which ED medicine side effects need urgent care?
Seek urgent care for an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden vision or hearing loss, or chest pain. These are rare but serious.
Low testosterone
Which symptoms are most closely linked to low testosterone?
Reduced sexual desire, fewer spontaneous erections and reduced morning erections are among the more specific signs. Fatigue, low mood and reduced strength are common too, but have many other causes.
Healthy aging
Who is a candidate for medical weight management with GLP-1 medications?
Candidates generally include adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or a BMI of 27 or greater with at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, or prediabetes.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
Who is not a good candidate for testosterone replacement therapy?
Men with active prostate or breast cancer, unmanaged heart failure, untreated severe sleep apnea, markedly elevated hematocrit, or those actively planning near-term fertility are generally not candidates for TRT.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Healthy aging
Who might not be a good fit for NAD+ therapy?
Suitability is reviewed individually. Your health history, medications and goals are discussed first, and NAD+ is not prescribed if it does not appear appropriate.
Treatment and safety
Why can't erectile dysfunction medicines be taken with nitrates?
PDE5 inhibitors and nitrates both dilate blood vessels through the same pathway, and taking them together can cause a sudden, dangerous drop in blood pressure. The combination is contraindicated.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Treatment and safety
Why does my hematocrit or red blood cell count need to be monitored on TRT?
Testosterone stimulates red blood cell production, and elevated hematocrit can thicken the blood, potentially increasing cardiovascular and thromboembolic risks if left unchecked.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Cost and what to expect
Why is an in-person physical evaluation required before starting testosterone therapy?
An in-person physical exam is required by clinical safety standards to assess cardiovascular, prostate, and testicular health, and to comply with regulations governing controlled substances.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
Why is testosterone usually tested in the morning?
Testosterone follows a daily rhythm and is generally highest in the morning, so morning sampling gives the most comparable and interpretable result.
Reviewed by Michael “Ted” Mimlitz, MD · Reviewed · Updated
Low testosterone
Why might my testosterone level need to be checked more than once?
Testosterone varies through the day and from day to day, so guidelines recommend confirming a low result with a repeat early-morning test before diagnosing deficiency.
Low testosterone
Will testosterone therapy build muscle on its own?
In men with low testosterone, treatment can modestly improve lean mass, but it is not a shortcut. Strength still depends on training, nutrition, sleep and overall health.
Cost and what to expect
Will the clinic share his results with me?
Health information belongs to him. Under federal privacy rules, providers generally share it with family members only with the patient's agreement or in limited circumstances.