Testosterone pills are taken by men to increase their testosterone levels. These pills are also called testosterone boosters or testosterone enhancers. They offer a range of health benefits, including increased muscle mass and strength, elevated sex drive or libido, improved energy levels, and enhanced overall health and well-being.
Such pills are marketed as testosterone enhancers. They lack approval from the FDA though. This is why the effectiveness of such pills cannot be guaranteed and also raises concern over their safety. Some men might benefit from these pills, while others might get mixed or negligible results.
About Testosterone pills
Testosterone pills are oral testosterone supplements. These are designed to increase the levels of testosterone hormone in men. Such pills are composed of synthetic compounds that mimic the testosterone hormone.
These pills may also contain testosterone precursors that boost the production of testosterone hormone in the body. These substances are absorbed through the digestive system and move into the bloodstream to enhance testosterone levels.
These pills might not be suitable for everyone. Oral testosterone pills are not quite commonly prescribed. They may give rise to potential side effects that can be risky. This is why, one must never use such medicines without a healthcare provider’s prescription.
Availability of Testosterone pills
Healthcare professionals do not easily recommend oral testosterone pills, unlike other forms of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). They may rather suggest some other testosterone treatments, which include injections, patches, gels, or pellets.
The reason why pills are not preferred is because oral testosterone has poor bioavailability. It can be rapidly metabolized by the liver, which might lead to inconsistent absorption and potential liver toxicity.
Effectiveness of Testosterone pills
Oral testosterone pills are not considered to be as effective as the other forms of testosterone treatments. They might not enhance testosterone levels and obtain any significant outcomes in some men.
Besides, these medicines have poor bioavailability, which is why, they might not get properly assimilated into the bloodstream. The medicinal substance fails to be absorbed by the body. This potentiates the risk of liver toxicity.
Due to this risk, oral testosterone pills and supplements are not recommended as a first-line treatment for low testosterone levels or a condition known as hypogonadism.
Need for prescription
Oral testosterone pills are not available without a prescription. One must never use such pills without consultation. The pills should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Although oral testosterone pills are not generally prescribed as a first-line treatment.
However, even if your healthcare provider prescribes these oral pills, before doing so, they will typically conduct a thorough evaluation. They will evaluate to assess the levels of testosterone, determine underlying causes of low testosterone, and decide the most appropriate dosage and treatment approach.
Alternative treatment options
Individuals with clinically low testosterone levels are prone to a condition called hypogonadism. Oral testosterone pills might be an appropriate treatment approach for most men. Such men will be recommended with some other form of treatment therapy by their healthcare provider.
Alternative methods of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) are injections, patches, gels, or pellets. These are all typically preferred over oral testosterone pills or supplements. Such alternative forms of TRT ensure more consistent absorption and better efficacy. They also have a lower risk of liver toxicity.
Contents of Testosterone supplements
Some common types of testosterone supplements that are prescribed by healthcare professionals. They may help increase testosterone levels in men to restore the hormonal balance. Here are some options:
Testosterone precursors
Testosterone pills may contain some ingredients that are precursors to the testosterone hormone. Ingredients like dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) or Tribulus, etc. are the precursors to this hormone. Such compounds might promote testosterone synthesis in the body.
Vitamins and mineral supplements
Nutrients like zinc, magnesium, etc., can trigger testosterone production in the body. Their supplementation can prevent the risk of male hypogonadism.
Herbal supplements
Several herbs like ashwagandha, Tribulus, fenugreek, etc. might stimulate the release of testosterone. Even though they are herbs, it is necessary to use them carefully. Consuming them in excessive doses may potentiate health risks.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Healthcare professionals recommend this therapy to lower the possibility of hypogonadism. This is a safer alternative to testosterone pills.
The lowdown
Overall, due to the limited effectiveness and safety of oral testosterone pills, they are not recommended by most healthcare practitioners. Apart from that, they might as well enhance the risk of potential side effects and even liver toxicity.
Individuals with low testosterone must discuss their concerns regarding treatment with their healthcare provider. They will determine the most safe and appropriate treatment approach tailored to your individual needs.
