Possible TRT side effects

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a safe, UK-licensed treatment, which means it has undergone rigorous medical testing. 

But like any treatment, it carries a small risk of side effects, and isn’t right for everyone.
Here’s everything you need to know. 

Medically approved by
Dr. Jonathan Andrews
Medical Director

TRT isn’t right for everyone

TRT can be life-changing for men with low testosterone, but it isn’t right for everyone. Your Ted’s doctor might not recommend TRT if you have any of the following:

1.

Severe obstructive sleep apnea

2.

High calcium levels

3.

Unexplained high PSA levels 

4.

High red blood cell count

5.

Cancers of the prostate, breast and liver 

Possible side effects of TRT

TRT comes with a small risk of negative side effects. During your consultation, your doctor will talk you through the risks, and answer any concerns or questions you may have.

Worsening sleep apnoea 

Poor sleep can be a symptom of low testosterone, and is actually one of the main reasons men come to Ted’s Health to start TRT, which can help reverse this negative symptom. But if you suffer from sleep apnoea, a serious sleep disorder, TRT might make it worse, and have a negative impact on your sleep quality.

Skin reactions or acne

You may experience some itching, swelling or tenderness around the area you apply the TRT gel or receive the injection. TRT can also cause some men to develop acne or spots.

Prostate changes

TRT can cause the prostate to get bigger, and it can raise your PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels. When you start TRT with Ted’s Health, you’ll have a blood test every three months, and this is one of the things we monitor closely.

Thickening blood

TRT can increase your red blood cell count, which is actually an advantage for some people – but only to a certain point. Too many red blood cells can thicken your blood, which in turn can worsen heart and circulatory conditions, and increase the risk of blood clots. 

Gynaecomastia (‘man boobs’) 

For some men, TRT can cause growth in breast tissue, or ‘man boobs’. 

Swelling & water retention

Patients with heart, kidney or liver conditions may experience swelling in their ankles and/or water retention. 

Medication conflicts

TRT can interfere with insulin, steroids, or blood thinners. Your Ted’s doctor will review your medication to check TRT is a safe option for you. 

The Ted’s Health way

You’re in safe hands when you start TRT with Ted’s Health. We’ll keep a close eye on your symptoms and bloodwork to tweak your treatment as needed, and make sure it keeps working for you. 

Expert doctors

Your consultation and check ins will be with a qualified doctor who is also a TRT specialist. You’re in safe hands. 

Regular monitoring

We’ll review your treatment and test your blood every three months, looking at your testosterone levels, and multiple other key health indicators.

Support whenever you need it

Whether you’re experiencing side effects, or just have a question regarding your treatment, give our medical team a call – they’ll be happy to help. 

Let’s take a look under the hood

Take your health into your hands. Order your blood test & 30-minute doctor consultation today.

FAQs

Got a question we haven't covered? Reach out to our friendly medical team below.

Will TRT affect my fertility?

Traditional TRT treatments will reduce your sperm count. Even though your sperm count will usually normalise 6-18 months after stopping treatment, it’s generally not recommended if you’re looking to start a family in the near future. Your doctor can help you find an alternative option, or to transition off TRT if you’re already on treatment. 

What happens if I experience negative side effects with TRT?

If you start experiencing negative side effects, your Ted’s doctor will adjust your dosage and/or the treatment option to find a balance that works best for your body. If you’d like to stop TRT at any point, they will help you transition off treatment. Where possible, you’ll always see the same doctor at Ted’s, and we’ll never lock you into a subscription. 

How long will TRT take to work? 

Most patients start to feel the positive effects of TRT after a few months, but it can take up to six months to feel the full impact.