Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a treatment designed to restore low levels of testosterone in men. It is used to address symptoms associated with low testosterone, such as fatigue, reduced sexual desire, and loss of muscle mass. TRT can lead to improved energy, mood, sexual function, and muscle strength. Men who may be eligible for TRT typically experience symptoms associated with low testosterone, such as those mentioned above. However, eligibility isn't solely based on symptoms; a lab test must confirm low testosterone levels. Additionally, a healthcare practitioner must ensure there are no contraindications or health conditions that make TRT unsafe for the patient.

The process of getting TRT with UPGUYS involves the following steps:

• Intake Call: The clinic coordinator will call you to complete your file for our practitioners and explain how to get your authorized lab requisition for initial blood work.
• Practitioner Assessment: The practitioner will review your completed file and authorize a lab requisition for blood work. This review may require a phone consultation.
• Initial Blood Work: You'll receive a lab requisition to complete your blood work at a nearby lab as soon as possible.
• Practitioner Lab Results Review: After your results are in, the practitioner will review them to determine if TRT is right for you. If appropriate, a prescription will be sent to our pharmacy.
• Pharmacist Consultation Call: The pharmacist will explain how to use the medication and finalize the details for shipping.
• Medication Shipment: Your TRT medication will be shipped directly to your door. All packages are sent with a "signature required" for added security.
• Follow-Up: We'll coordinate follow-up lab tests and practitioner calls to ensure the treatment is effective and well adjusted to your needs.

UPGUYS offers a range of products for Testosterone Replacement Therapy. If you are considered eligible, you and the practitioner will work together during your consultation call to determine the most suitable option for you. The most common options include:

• Testosterone Hydrogel: A daily topical product applied to the skin.
• Testosterone Enanthate and Cypionate Injections: Self-administered injections, usually given 2 times per week, often subcutaneously.
• HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): Self-injected 2-3 times per week, primarily for patients who want to maintain fertility.
• Oral Medications (e.g., Enclomiphene, Clomiphene, Anastrozole): May be used on their own or as adjuncts to therapy, depending on the patient's needs.

The UPGUYS TRT Program includes three main components:

• Practitioner Calls: Covered through your provincial healthcare program ($0).
• Lab Tests: We don't charge for lab requisitions. Most tests are covered through your provincial healthcare program ($0). However, some may incur out-of-pocket costs depending on your province. Patients have reported paying around $30-$80 directly to the labs if their provincial healthcare program does not cover them.
• Medication: We have no way of knowing exactly what, if anything, the practitioner will prescribe, as TRT may not be suitable for everyone. However, for those prescribed standard testosterone medications like Testosterone Cypionate or Testosterone Hydrogel, most patients pay around $200 every three months. If HCG is included as part of your treatment, the price will be higher, based on specific needs determined by the practitioner.

It might, depending on your benefit plan, as coverage varies by plan. We include an official pharmacy receipt inside your shipment, which you can use to submit an insurance claim and seek reimbursement. Please note that we do not directly bill your insurance for medications, but we provide the necessary receipts for you to submit your claims yourself.

Yes, TRT can affect fertility. Testosterone replacement therapy may reduce sperm production, leading to decreased fertility. If fertility is a major concern for you, it's important to discuss this with the practitioner before starting treatment. There are additional products, such as HCG, that can be used alongside testosterone to help preserve fertility. The practitioner may recommend these options if maintaining fertility is crucial in your treatment plan.

Blood work for testosterone levels should ideally be done in the morning, between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., when testosterone levels are at their peak.

The eligibility process, from completing the online assessment to receiving the results of your initial blood work, typically takes about 1 to 2 weeks.

Coverage depends on whether your tests are considered insured or uninsured by your provincial government. In most provinces, the majority of tests are insured. However, depending on your province, you may need to pay for certain tests when you go to the lab for your blood work.

TRT can have potential side effects. It's essential to work with a licensed medical practitioner to ensure the treatment is safe for you. At UPGUYS, we provide this support. Some possible side effects of TRT include:

• Acne
• Increased red blood cell count
• Decreased sperm production
• Gynecomastia

TRT can interact with certain medications, so it's important to inform your doctor of all the medications you are currently taking. This will help them determine if TRT is safe for you or if any adjustments need to be made.

You may be a candidate for TRT if you have symptoms of low testosterone and your blood tests confirm low testosterone levels. The eligibility assessment, lab work and consultation with a practitioner will help determine if TRT is appropriate for you.

Symptoms of low testosterone can include:

• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Low libido (sexual desire)
• Erectile dysfunction
• Loss of muscle mass
• Increased body fat
• Decreased bone density

Most patients begin to notice improvements within 3 to 6 weeks of starting TRT. However, it may take up to 6 months to see the full benefits of the therapy.

While you can stop TRT, it is essential to first discuss this with your practitioner. They can help create a wean-off plan to ensure you discontinue treatment safely.

Yes, follow-up blood work and practitioner calls are necessary to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment as needed. This helps ensure that the therapy is effective and safe over time.

TRT is a long-term, potentially lifelong treatment. However, the duration should be discussed with your practitioner, who can provide guidance based on your specific situation and health goals.