Is TRT right for me? Frequently Asked Questions
These are a few questions we receive often. If you have any more, please contact us.
Do you accept insurance?
We do not accept medical insurance at TRT MD. Our skilled staff offer the highest concierge services in the industry.
Is TRT right for me and safe?
TRT is safe when appropriately prescribed and monitored. There is no evidence that testosterone causes cancer, however preexisting prostate cancer may grow faster with TRT. It is very important to have a prostate exam and a serum PSA (prostatic specific antigen) test prior to beginning therapy, and to monitor PSA level and prostate health regularly.
Do I need a referral from my primary physician first?
No, Dr. VanAntwerp performs all necessary screening and exams. You will receive an order for comprehensive blood work when you book your consultation. Results will be reviewed at your complimentary history and physical.
Will testosterone replacement help reverse enlarged male breasts?
Male breast enlargement (gynecomastia) can be a sign of testosterone/estrogen imbalance. Therapy does not reverse the enlargement, but often Laser Assisted Liposuction can correct it very nicely.
How long will it take to start seeing results?
Many patients start feeling better within three days. Body composition changes of will transform over several months as your testosterone (T) level is optimally tuned. Dr. VanAntwerp monitors and adjusts medications to optimize dosage of testosterone and supporting medications (Aromatase Inhibitors, hCG, etc).
I have top secret clearance, can I use TRT?
Yes, when prescribed and managed by a licensed physician. Testosterone is a controlled substance which must be appropriately prescribed by a medical professional. Your clearance may require you to disclose prescribed medications to your agency.
Will I see the doctor after my first appointment, or am I on my own?
If you’re working with us for TRT, hormone replacement therapy, or weight loss, you’ll have a team behind you! We build custom treatment plans to restore your health. That includes meeting with you—in person—at regular intervals to review progress, check your blood work, and optimize your treatment. If you have questions at any time, you can also call us for on-demand help.
Do I need a doctor referral first?
No, Dr. VanAntwerp performs all necessary screening and exams. You will receive an order for comprehensive blood work when you book your consultation. Results will be reviewed at your complimentary history and physical.
My doctor told me that my testosterone levels are fine but I show some the symptoms of Low T. Is there something else wrong with me?
All complaints require a detailed history and physical. We frequently see patients who have been told that they have a “normal” testosterone level who in fact have Low T. To have have a complete understanding of male sex hormones the following tests must be performed: albumin, total testosterone, free testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, estradiol, luteinizing hormone, and follicle stimulating hormone.
I was placed on Androgel, how is that different from what you provide?
It is difficult to maintain consistent levels of testosterone with topical gels and creams. Topical therapy also puts your loved ones at risk of contamination through contact with you. Finally, topical testosterone may cause higher levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which is associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy, male pattern baldness and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
I heard that TRT will make my testes stop functioning and shrink, is this true?
Testosterone therapy by itself (testosterone monotherapy) will reduce testicular function. Dr. VanAntwerp’s first goal is often to restore normal testicular function through supportive therapy (such as hCG, clomiphene citrate, and/or supplements). When testosterone therapy is indicated we also accompany that with medications that maintain and optimize testicular function.
I may need testosterone which is considered an anabolic steroid, does that mean that I'm going to get "Roid Rage?"
“Roid Rage” is a myth. People exhibiting so called “Roid Rage” are often self medicating gym rats who are on a multitude of illegal substances without any oversight from a physician. Don’t be this guy!
Truth be told, I was an anabolic steroid abusing gym rat. I stopped cycling steroids because I want to be healthy. My metabolism is a wreck and I'm displaying Low T symptoms. Can you help me?
Yes, but only with your adherence to the prescribed treatment. Your whole endocrine system (insulin metabolism, adrenal function, thyroid function and the pituitary-gonadal axis) is impacted by anabolic steroid abuse. Dr. VanAntwerp’s goal is to restore balance, function, and health to your endocrine system.