In recent years, the UK has witnessed a significant surge in individuals seeking testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This medical intervention, primarily sought by men facing hormone imbalances, promises to revitalise energy, uplift mood, and enhance the overall quality of life. Delve into this guide to understand the intricacies of the cost of testosterone replacement therapy and the different types of treatment available in the UK.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Testosterone replacement therapy, also known as Androgen Replacement Therapy, aims to rectify low testosterone levels—a condition that can affect individuals in terms of physical health and emotional well-being. In the UK, the therapy is increasingly popular due to its positive effects on symptoms like fatigue, low libido, and diminished muscle mass.
Testosterone levels may decrease with age or as a result of a medical condition.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is also used for non-medical purposes including;
- Improving sexual performance
- Maintaining high energy levels
- Building muscle mass for bodybuilding
- An overall improvement in wellbeing
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that is responsible for the development of:
- Primary sexual characteristics: Male genitalia
- Secondary sexual characteristics: Deep voice, bulk muscle mass and hair pattern
This hormone is also responsible for:
- Normal sex drive
- Sperm production
- Maintaining energy levels
- Red blood cells production
- Bone density and strength
- Mood and overall sense of wellbeing
How Does Testosterone Replacement Therapy Work?
TRT works by enhancing the testosterone levels to the normal physiological range and by improving signs and symptoms of testosterone deficiency.
Your doctor will first do a definitive diagnosis including;
The Procedure
- A review of symptoms
- Medical History
- Physical examination
- Blood Test Results
After that, your doctor will conclude whether you’re suffering from testosterone deficiency or the symptoms may be due to other conditions or causes.
If the other conditions are causing your testosterone level to drop, your doctor may treat other underlying conditions before recommending TRT.
Understanding the variety of treatment options available can provide a clearer picture of the potential costs involved.
Here are the prominent types of TRT and their associated costs:
- Injections: Injectable testosterone is usually the least expensive option and the most popular form of TRT. The injections are given every two to ten weeks depending upon the prescribing physician. This form of TRT provides a more significant boost in testosterone levels with the greatest improvement in symptoms.The cost of TRT injections can vary depending on the frequency and the specific type of injection prescribed, with prices ranging from £20 to £100 per dose.
- Topicals: This form of TRT involves creams, gels and patches. These are convenient to apply but precautions must be taken to avoid skin-to-skin contact with children and pregnant women for at least 6 hours after application. The downside is skin irritation. Furthermore, not all patients absorb these medications well. The monthly cost for these treatments can range between £20 and £50.
- Buccal Patches: This form of TRT is less common and involves placing a buccal patch on the upper gums twice a day. They provide a steady release of the hormone and typically cost between £50 and £70 per month. The possible downsides can be gum irritation and headaches.
- Pellets: This form of TRT is a minor surgical procedure in which doctors make a small cut and then insert the pellet in the fatty tissue under the skin. This is usually in the upper hip area or buttock. The pellets are small plastic implants that slowly dissolve and can deliver TRT for 3-6 months (1) .The procedure, conducted once every 3 to 6 months, costs approximately £400 to £800 per session, including the cost of the pellets and the insertion procedure.
- Oral: Oral testosterone is a less common form of TRT and is only prescribed to those individuals who cannot use other forms of TRT. It comes with warnings and its long-term use can cause liver damage. TRT tablets typically cost £20 to £40 per month.
- Nasal: Intranasal testosterone comes in the form of a gel that is applied inside the nose three times a day at an interval of 6-8 hours preferably at the same times every day (2) . The downsides include runny nose, nasal discomfort, or nasal bleed. This is a newer form of treatment and costs typically £30 to £70 per month.
The Results
The individual can expect a significant improvement in their blood testosterone levels within a week. It may take from 4 weeks to several months (3) to see the positive changes as described in the table below:
| Evident Effects Induced by TRT | Time Course |
|---|---|
| 1. Sexual Interest | 3 Weeks |
| 2. Erections/ Ejaculations | 6 Months |
| 3. Overall Improvement in Wellbeing | 3-4 Weeks |
| 4. Improvements in Mood | 3-6 Weeks |
| 5. Enhanced Red Blood Cells Count | 3 Months |
| 6. Improvements in Lean Body Mass & Muscle Strength | 12-16 Weeks |
| 7. Enhanced Bone Density | 6 Months |
How Long Does TRT Last?
TRT is usually a long-term treatment, probably life-long. If you stop receiving treatment your testosterone levels may drop. People need to have a routine check-up at least every 6-12 months to evaluate their blood testosterone levels.
Summary of the Treatment
| Procedure time | The initial consultation is approximately 45 minutes with reviews on an ongoing basis |
| Number of sessions | Ongoing |
| Time-frame for results | Four weeks to several months |
| Duration of results | Ongoing |
| Back to work | Immediately |
| Downtime | None |
| Common risks & complications | Acne, disturbed breathing during sleep, breast tenderness, and swelling of ankles |
How much does Testosterone Replacement Therapy Cost?
The cost of TRT typically consists of initial consultation fees averaging £170 to £300, blood tests of between £80 and £195 and monthly subscriptions ranging between £70 and £130. Other factors to take into account include;
- 1.Type of Medication
- 2.Dosage
- 3.Mode of Administration
- 4.Doctor’s consultation fees
- 5.Laboratory test fees
Cost of Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Yorkshire
| Cost (View Details ) | Services Offered | |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | £195 | Initial session with one of the doctors who are all specialists in testosterone deficiency |
| Initial Blood Tests | £136 | SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) blood test, LH (Luteinizing Hormone) test, FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) test, prolactin, testosterone, and full blood count |
| Monthly Ongoing Support | £19 per month | - Reviewing blood tests - Provision of private prescriptions - Writing to your GP as and when necessary - Answering any questions you may have, either by email or phone |
In Yorkshire, the cost of TRT varies among different clinics.
| Cost (View Details ) | Services Offered | |
|---|---|---|
| New Patient Consultation | £280 | - In-depth Assessment - Mental Health Support - Tailored Consultations |
| Initial Blood Tests | £185 | PSA (Prostate specific antigen) test, total testosterone, SHBG, prolactin, FSH, LH & FSH, detailed hormone analysis |
| Follow Up Consultation | £160 | - Personal Support
- Answering any questions you may have, either by email or phone - Further Assessments |
Cost of Testosterone Replacement Therapy in London
| Cost (View Details ) | Services Offered | |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | £195 | Initial session with one of the doctors who are all specialists in Testosterone Deficiency |
| Basic TRT Test | £49.95 | Testosterone, Free (calculated testosterone), SHBG, Albumin |
| Optimal Blood Tests | £79.95 | Testosterone, SHBG, Albumin, Calculated Free T, Oestradiol, PSA, LH, FSH, Prolactin, TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Full Blood Count, Haemoglobin, Haematocrit, Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, Triglycerides |
| TRT Treatment Packages | Between £99 - £149 per month | - All the medication required - Delivery Cost - Personal support |
In London, the cost of TRT varies among different clinics.
| Cost (View Details ) | Services Offered | |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | £170.99 | In-depth Assessment |
| Initial Test | £54.59 | Testosterone blood test |
| Pre-consultation Blood Test | £99.99 | Pituitary hormones test, full blood count, prostate-specific antigen, liver, and kidney function. |
| Monthly Subscription | £70 to £130 | - Medication - Administrative and medical support |
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Cost in Warwickshire
| Cost (View Details ) | Services Offered | |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | £175 | In-depth Assessment |
| Initial Tests | £190 | Testosterone blood test and full men screen test |
| Monthly Subscription | £35 to £45 | Medications |
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Cost in Surrey
| Cost | Services Offered | |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Diagnosis | £79.99 | Blood Tests |
| Treatment Subscription | £20 per week | TRT Protocols |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if I have A Low Testosterone Level?
The most common signs and symptoms of low testosterone levels are:
| Mental | Physical | Sexual |
|---|---|---|
| Troubled sleep | Loss of muscle mass | Lower sex drive |
| Difficulty with focus/concentration (Brain fog) | Increased body fat | Difficulty with erection |
| Reduced self-concentration | Decreased bone mass | Low semen volume |
| Depression | Fatigue | Low energy level |
| Affected memory | Hair loss |
If you’re experiencing these signs and symptoms, you should get your testosterone levels checked.
2. What is the Normal Testosterone Level?
The normal testosterone level for males according to their age-group is as follows:
| Age | T levels in nanograms per millilitres (ng/ml) |
|---|---|
| 30-35 | 4.85–19.0 |
| 35–40 | 4.65–18.1 |
| 40–45 | 4.46–17.1 |
| 45–50 | 4.26–16.4 |
| 50–55 | 4.06–15.6 |
| 55–60 | 3.87–14.7 |
| 60–65 | 3.67–13.9 |
| 65–70 | 3.47–13.0 |
If your testosterone level is slightly low for your age, you likely don’t need TRT. However, if your testosterone level is significantly low, your doctor may recommend TRT after some additional tests.
3. What is the best form of Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Intramuscular injection is the best form of TRT. This option provides a more significant boost in testosterone levels with the greatest improvement in symptoms.
4. Is Testosterone Replacement Therapy Available on the NHS?
On the NHS, testosterone replacement therapy is only available for certain conditions, including hypogonadism (low testosterone levels) or during gender reassignment.
5. What are the Risks of Developing Side Effects for Women, Children, and Pets if they Come in Contact with the Testosterone Gel?
Anyone who comes in contact with the patient’s skin is at risk of developing side effects. This only occurs when the patient uses testosterone gel and the application area is exposed.
- Women can experience acne and hair growth.
- FDA issued warnings regarding adverse effects in children exposed to testosterone gel on patients’ exposed application area. Children can experience aggressive behaviour, large genitalia and early puberty.
- Pets exposed to testosterone gel can experience aggressive behaviour and develop enlarged genitals.
Conclusion
Though the cost of testosterone replacement therapy in the UK might seem steep, viewing it as a health and wellbeing investment may be beneficial. With a clear understanding of the treatment types and costs, you can embark on this journey informed and prepared.
TRT can be a good treatment option to enhance your quality of life if you suffer with low testosterone levels. As always, we highly encourage our readers to seek medical advice from certified doctors on the effectiveness of TRT in their particular situations.
