What to Expect in Your First Week on TRT
The first week of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) varies based on the individual.
Every patient responds differently to treatment, and symptom relief and side effects depend on factors like age, dosage, protocol, severity of the Testosterone deficiency, and more.
That said, we’ll go over some general things many patients experience in their first week on TRT.
Your First TRT Dose
Using a new medication can take some getting used to. TRT comes in a variety of forms, including injections and topical creams.
Topical Testosterone is typically applied to the skin daily. A fraction of the Testosterone is absorbed through the skin, usually within 4 hours. It’s important to allow topical Testosterone to absorb completely, and to avoid transferring the cream or gel to family members and pets. Learn more about applying topical Testosterone.
Testosterone injections are usually administered once to twice a week. These injections can be subcutaneous, which means they are injected into the fatty layer of the skin. Testosterone shots can also be injected intramuscularly into various muscles. From there, the medicine absorbs into the bloodstream.
Testosterone injections also include something called an ester, which allows for a timed release of the medication that elevates Testosterone levels over 3-7 days (sometimes longer). Learn more about how to inject Testosterone.
It can feel awkward or unfamiliar to administer Testosterone for the first time. But once you get into the routine of it, it should become a quick and easy process. Be sure to follow all the guidelines from your pharmacy, and to reach out to your provider if you have any questions.
Defy Medical patients can contact [email protected] to go over their application instructions in-depth.
Potential Benefits in the First Week on TRT
During your first week, your body is just getting used to the new medication and increased Testosterone levels. Many of the benefits of TRT take weeks to months to fully appear.
However, there are some benefits you may experience in your first week. Keep in mind that your body is still adjusting, and that if you don’t see these benefits in the first week, they will likely come with time. Learn more about how long TRT takes to work.
Low Testosterone can cause fatigue, so increasing Testosterone levels often leads to more energy. This boost in energy may be caused by an increase in red blood cells, also known as erythropoiesis.
Testosterone affects mood by contributing to the uptake of serotonin, which is a crucial neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of happiness and contentment.
Testosterone contributes to sexual drive in both men and women, as well as performance in men. Increased Testosterone levels often strongly impact libido and sexual function.
Low Testosterone can lead to insomnia and sleeplessness. Bringing your levels into balance often leads to a better night’s sleep.
Testosterone impacts metabolic health and can lead to better glycemic control and improved insulin response, especially for patients with insulin sensitivity, prediabetes, or diabetes.
Potential Side Effects in the First Week on TRT
Just like other medications, you may experience side effects in your first week as you adjust to your new TRT protocol. We’ll break down some of the most common side effects below.
Testosterone impacts the production of sebum, or the oil that keeps the skin hydrated. When subcutaneous glands produce too much sebum, it can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
This effect is typically temporary and will clear up as your body adjusts to the medication. If you continue to experience acne, you can also access acne treatments through Defy Medical.
These medications can be easily added to your TRT prescription order.
While your mood can improve on your first week of TRT, it’s also possible for your mood to feel inconsistent for a few weeks after starting TRT. Hormones play a big part in emotional regulation, and it may take some time for your system to adjust to higher Testosterone levels.
Testosterone triggers the body to retain fluid, which can lead to swelling in the ankles, feet, and other areas. This swelling typically isn’t anything to worry about, and it will likely clear up over time.
If you inject Testosterone, you may experience temporary swelling directly after your weekly or bi-weekly injection when your T levels are at their highest.
For most patients, TRT improves sleep and allows for more restful nights. But for patients with sleep apnea, TRT may worsen symptoms.
Sleep apnea is a condition where the airways become blocked while you sleep, leading to periods of time where you stop breathing. This reduces the amount of oxygen being taken in by the body and interrupts deeper, restorative sleep patterns.
Sleep apnea is a common cause of low Testosterone. If you’re experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, we recommend getting tested and diagnosed so that you can treat the issue.
Treatment typically includes a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which you wear at night to improve airflow.
What to Expect In Your First Week of TRT With Defy Medical
We’ve covered the potential benefits and side effects you may experience in your first week on TRT.
When you partner with Defy Medical for your hormone care, you have access to more than a decade of expertise in the field of Men’s Health. Our telemedicine services allow you to consult with a provider from the comfort of your home, plus purchase your medications online (if prescribed) to ensure a seamless telehealth experience.
An individualized TRT plan that targets your symptoms is essential for achieving the best outcomes in Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Defy Medical is here to guide you through the first week and beyond.
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