Frequently Asked Questions About TRT & Hormone Therapy
Testosterone Replacement Therapy FAQ
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Andropause, also known as “male menopause”, is the gradual decline in testosterone levels in aging men, typically starting in their late 40s to early 50s, but can occur earlier or later. Symptoms may include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, muscle loss, increased body fat, mood swings, and decreased bone density. Treatment options may include hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and addressing underlying health issues.
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You will have a full 60 minutes to meet directly with a physician, who will do a comprehensive review of your new patient paperwork, discuss your unique health history and symptoms, and have a brief physical exam. A medical assistant will also take your vitals and preform a blood draw so that your physician can order a comprehensive lab panel to review your results with you the following week.
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Your physician will order a comprehensive lab assessment to assess your health, including a complete blood count (CBC) and comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), as well as an assessment of iron stores, thyroid function, blood sugar, prostate, and hormone panel (Including free and total testosterone, estrogen, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone). All labs are 100% included in the initial consultation fee. Your physician can add on additional labs at your request for a fee, if appropriate.
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You will always work with and have access to the same physician who manages your medical care throughout the entire process.
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Individual results can vary, but most patients will experience benefits of treatment within 2-6 weeks.
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Testosterone can be administered in many forms, including subcutaneous or intramuscular injections, subcutaneous pellets, topical creams and gels, and even intranasal spays. Typically the method with the greatest benefit and most reliable results are with injectable therapy.
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Due to the restrictions insurance companies place on covering treatments, we do not accept any insurance plans for our services at this time. We can provide you invoices and receipts that you can submit to your FSA or HSA plan.
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You might be! Many men with total testosterone values in the low-normal or normal range who are symptomatic often have low free testosterone levels and are still excellent candidates for treatment.
Medication Assisted Weight Loss Therapy FAQ
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Medication-assisted weight loss therapy involves the use of prescription medications, in conjunction with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, to aid in weight loss efforts. These medications work by suppressing appetite, altering digestion, or increasing metabolism, depending on the specific drug prescribed.
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Medication assisted weight loss can take many forms, including use of popular medications like semaglutide, tirzepatide, phentermine, etc. Your physician will discuss the different medications that my be right for you, includng a thorough discussion of expected effects, side effects, and expected length of treatment.
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The duration of medication-assisted weight loss therapy varies depending on individual factors such as weight loss goals, response to treatment, and any underlying medical conditions. In general, treatment duration may range from several months to a year. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
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Weight loss results with medication-assisted therapy can vary from person to person. On average, individuals may expect to lose 1-2% of their initial body weight each month of treatment. However, it's essential to remember that results are influenced by factors such as adherence to treatment, dietary habits, physical activity levels, and individual metabolism.
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Many individuals may start to see initial weight loss results within the first few weeks of starting medication-assisted weight loss therapy. However, the rate of weight loss can vary depending on factors such as the specific medication used, adherence to treatment, dietary changes, and exercise habits. It's essential to have realistic expectations and focus on sustainable, long-term progress rather than rapid, short-term results.
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While medication-assisted weight loss therapy can be effective, it works best when combined with healthy lifestyle modifications. Your healthcare provider will likely recommend dietary changes, such as adjusting calorie intake and choosing nutrient-dense foods, as well as increasing physical activity levels. Additionally, practicing portion control, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and managing stress are essential components of a comprehensive weight loss plan.
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That’s the goal! With that in mind, the decision to stop taking weight loss medications should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. While medications can help jumpstart weight loss efforts, they are typically not intended for long-term use. Your provider will assess your progress and may gradually taper off medications once you've reached your weight loss goals and established healthy habits to maintain your results.
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Weight regain is possible after stopping weight loss medications, especially if lifestyle changes are not maintained. However, by adopting healthy eating habits, staying physically active, and continuing to monitor your weight, you can reduce the risk of regaining lost weight. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on transitioning off medications and implementing strategies to support long-term weight management. We also specialize in hormone optimization at Ignite HRT, which may be a useful tool to help optimize your health and maintain a healthy body composition!