Q&A with Damian Thrasher, PharmD
In honor of International Men’s Day, we whipped up a special edition of Ask the Pharmacist with our very own Damian Thrasher, PharmD — Belmar Pharma Solutions’ clinical expert for men’s health, testosterone replacement therapies, and erectile dysfunction (ED) therapies.
Since he’s a wealth of knowledge when it comes to men’s health, this isn’t the first time we’ve asked Damian to contribute his expertise about testosterone replacement therapy. In fact, in another edition of Ask the Pharmacist, Damian answers frequently asked questions about ED.
This time around, we wanted to go beyond erectile dysfunction, so we could help male patients learn about the multitude of reasons you might consider hormone replacement therapy options as you age. As Damian points out, most men can benefit from testosterone therapy even if ED isn’t a concern.
Q: What are some signs men might benefit from testosterone therapies?
A: Father time, as an aging male, is undefeated. In men, the body’s ability to counteract andropause, sarcopenia, and declining sexual function tends to diminish with age. The male body’s natural function to support these issues declines slowly after the age of 30, and progressively continues to depreciate at a faster rate as we age.
As our hormones continue to dwindle, it becomes harder to overcome these issues without support. Fatigue becomes more evident each day. Sexual desire becomes less frequent. Past interests may even start to fall by the wayside.
Our bodies start to change, regardless of the effort we put into it. Then one day, we don’t recognize the man in the mirror.
Thankfully, there is help. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can be an option to help minimize some of the issues that come with the natural male aging process.
Q: What are the potential benefits of testosterone replacement therapy?
A: Testosterone plays many roles in combating a variety of aging male symptoms. Testosterone is involved in maintaining muscle mass and bone density, and levels are often linked to libido, mood, and cognitive function.
Boosts in memory, concentration, and learning abilities have the potential to improve with TRT, also. With this support, even cardiovascular health has the potential to thrive in the aging male. Over time, TRT may help improve functions in several areas of the body, from physical to cardiovascular, to brain health.
Q: What pro tips can you give male patients about asking their providers for TRT?
A: There are a few important factors to consider when thinking about TRT options. Lifestyle factors, such as loss of sexual drive, decreased motivation, and unstable mood, to name a few. First, ask yourself: Are you getting enough sleep at night? Are you getting enough exercise or do you have a lack of motivation?
Psychological factors may also be part of the root cause of some andropause issues. Depression, anxiety, and stress can contribute to low T (testosterone). Low libido, low energy levels or change in life status can also contribute (or vice versa).
To get started, ask yourself: Has my mood been on a roller coaster? Do I care about my work ethic? Do I enjoy life as much as I used to? These are the kinds of changes worth mentioning to your provider — they can help determine whether they’re related to hormone levels or something else.
Lastly (and equally important), medical conditions such as stroke, myocardial infarction, and diabetes are often associated with low T. These conditions contribute to breaking down the body’s natural rhythm.
All these concerns and questions could be the start of a conversation with your provider to see if you’re a candidate for TRT.
When looking for a provider, it is good to know how long the provider has been treating patients that may be going through the same issues you’re having.
A few important questions to consider (or even ask) potential providers, include:
- Is the provider well-versed in functional medicine?
- Is the provider quick to use traditional therapies, or will they consider all options?
- How have they treated patients in the past (what therapies, medications, etc.)?
- What is their standard of care per health factor?
- What is their follow-up treatment process?
These are questions to consider when looking for the best fit for your personalized testosterone replacement therapy. With answers to these questions, a candid conversation and some blood work can help you and your provider determine whether TRT is a good fit for your long-term wellness goals.
