06 Sep Which Cells Produce Testosterone? 

Testosterone is the primary sex hormone found in men. Testosterone plays a significant role in bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass, muscle strength, red blood cell production, sex drive, and sperm production of males. In men, the usual range of testosterone in the bloodstream is between 300-1000ng/dl. When testosterone levels in the bloodstream are low, the hypothalamus sends a signal to the pituitary gland to produce more testosterone. The pituitary gland then sends this message to the testes to produce more testosterone. Leydig cells within the testes produce and secrete testosterone into the bloodstream, restoring levels to normal. Many men can struggle with low testosterone levels at some point in their lives.

Low Testosterone 

Testosterone levels are considered low when levels fall below 300ng/dl. There are many causes for low levels of testosterone in men. 

Common causes of low testosterone include:

• Stress
• Depression
• Alcohol use 
• Illicit drug use 
• Heart disease 
• Hypothyroidism 
• Diabetes 

Symptoms of low testosterone include: 

• Decreased sex drive 
• Erectile dysfunction 
• Fatigue or low energy levels
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Decreased muscle mass
• Anxiety or depression
• Weight gain 
• Decreased body hair 
• Gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts) 

High Testosterone 

Testosterone levels are considered high when levels are increased above 1000ng/dl. Abnormally high testosterone levels in men can result from an adrenal gland disorder or cancer of the testes. Increased testosterone levels can also be found in men who use anabolic steroids or have been supplemented with synthetic testosterone supplements. 

Low Testosterone Treatment 

Low testosterone can be treated in various ways, including pellets, injections, patches, and creams. Some of these treatment methods last longer than others, requiring fewer visits to the office, while others need more frequent visits. 

Testosterone Pellets 

Testosterone pellets are small (3mm-9mm) testosterone implants placed under the skin that slowly release testosterone. The pellets are most commonly placed under the skin of the hip and release a steady dose of testosterone over a period of four months. The pellets will eventually dissolve underneath the skin, and you will follow up with your doctor to have new pellets placed. The procedure takes a few minutes in the office and is virtually painless. 

Testosterone Injections 

Testosterone injections are administered into the muscle during a visit to the office. Common locations for testosterone injection are in the deltoid or the buttocks. Injections are typically administered every 1-2 weeks. 

Testosterone Patches 

Testosterone patches are placed on the skin and changed every 24 hours. They work by secreting a steady dose of testosterone that is absorbed by the skin and transferred into the bloodstream.

Testosterone Creams 

Testosterone creams are applied to the skin of the shoulder, upper arms, or thighs every 24 hours. The testosterone in the cream is absorbed into the skin and then transferred into the bloodstream.

Benefits of Testosterone Treatment

• Increased muscle mass
• Improved energy levels 
• A sense of wellbeing 
• Anxiety relief 
• Improved memory and concentration 
• Decreased symptoms of depression 

If you’re interested in testosterone replacement, call us today at (817) 961-9775 or click here to send us a message. We’ll schedule an initial appointment and help determine if testosterone treatments are right for you. We have two convenient office locations in Colleyville and Fort Worth.