Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a treatment that increases men's testosterone levels. It comes in various forms but the oral gel and skin patch treatments are the most popular. Manufactures do not offer an oral pill treatment due to the possibility liver complications. TRT was approved by the FDA as a treatment option for men who suffered from Hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is a condition where little or no testosterone is produced in the testis. TRT assists in replacing the absent naturally-occurring testosterone that is produced by the body.
Aging and the Decrease of Testosterone
Loss of testosterone is a normal part of the male ageing process. It is natural for levels to fluctuate throughout a male’s lifetime. As men age, it is normal to experience weakness, decreased libido, fatigue, and weight gain. However, problems arise when there are drastic changes in testosterone levels. Women begin to produce estrogen during puberty and stop in their mid 40’s or 50’s during menopause. This differs from men who gradually lose testosterone in small increments after the age of 30.
What Serious Health Risks are Associated with TRT?
Although Testosterone Replacement Therapy has been lauded as a helpful solution to men who are experiencing low testosterone levels, many men are beginning to report suffering from serious side effects and illnesses as a result of taking these products. Some of the many serious health risks associated with Testosterone Replacement Therapy include;
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (bleeding in the veins)
- Blood clots Infertility
- And in extreme cases, death
TRT Manufacturers
In the past few years there has been a drastic increase of males being prescribed and receiving TRT treatment. This is a result of manufactures marketing their products by listing common side effects linked to aging and alleging to reverse them through TRT treatment.
Advertisements allege that that TRT will increase energy, muscle mass, libido, and bone density levels. Male viewers with natural aging symptoms are watching these advertisements and consulting with their doctors about possible treatment options. What users fail to realize is that the risks associated with TRT outweigh the benefits, and many men are not even aware of some of the serious side effects associated with TRT products until it is too late.
Risks Outweigh Benefits: TRT & Cardiovascular Complications
In a study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) researchers reported that men who used testosterone replacement therapies were 30 % more likely to suffer from a heart attack, stroke, or even death during a three year period in comparison with men with Low T levels who do not undergo treatment. The study had a 3000 participant sample size. The average age of participants selected for the study was 60 years of age. The study consisted of both hormone users and non hormone users. Additional information about the study can be found here.
In another study conducted by the Public Library of Science (PLOS), researchers found that men 65 and older who used prescription TRT products had double the risk of a heart attack within the first three months of using TRT products. More information about that study can be found here.
Lawsuits Against Testosterone Replacement Manufacturers
Currently, there are over 1,000 lawsuits filed by patients and their families against TRT manufacturers. Patients who have suffered from strokes, heart attacks, internal bleeding, and other complications are filing lawsuits to hold manufactures liable their negligence in warning users about the potential harmful side effects and for false marketing.
If you or a loved one has suffered from serious complications after receiving Testosterone Replacement Therapy give us a call at (206)727-4000 to hear about your legal options and sign up for a free confidential consultation. Our award winning lawyers have over 20 years of experience in dealing with personal injury and wrongful death claims. They are currently investigating Testosterone Replacement Therapy claims and would love to help you get the compensation that you deserve. Our case investigators are available 24/7 and can be reached at 206-727-4000.