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Common TRT Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy) in Australia

Learn More

Common TRT Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy) in Australia

Learn More

Common TRT Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy) in Australia

TRT Therapy

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a medically supervised treatment designed to restore testosterone levels in men whose bodies are not producing sufficient amounts naturally. Low testosterone, often due to hypogonadism, can cause symptoms such as fatigue, reduced libido, muscle loss, mood disturbances, weight gain, decreased motivation, and poor energy.

TRT aims to bring testosterone back into a healthy, physiological range, helping to improve energy, mood, muscle mass, sexual function, and overall quality of life.

Men choose TRT because low testosterone (low T) can lead to a range of troublesome symptoms:

  • Low libido or sexual dysfunction. Reduced sex drive and difficulty maintaining erections are common.
  • Fatigue and low energy. Even with rest, men may feel drained, less motivated, or struggle with concentration.
  • Mood issues. Low testosterone may contribute to irritability, low mood, or “flat” emotions.
  • Reduced muscle, strength & increased body fat. Testosterone supports muscle protein synthesis. When it’s low, muscle mass declines and fat, especially around the belly, can go up.
  • Weight gain and metabolic impacts. Low T may slow metabolism, making fat loss more difficult.

By restoring testosterone, TRT aims to help alleviate these symptoms and improve quality of life.

You may be eligible for TRT if:

  • You have symptoms consistent with low testosterone (e.g., chronic fatigue, low libido, muscle loss, mood changes, reduced motivation).
  • Blood tests show clinically low testosterone levels. IGML require two separate blood tests to confirm low serum testosterone before approving TRT.
  • Our IGML clinicians (registered Australian doctors) evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and bloodwork to rule out other possible causes.

Because of these strict criteria, not all men who request TRT are accepted. Some are deemed ineligible.

IGML patients report improvements in energy, mood, and motivation within 3–4 weeks of starting TRT. Over the following 2–3 months, benefits often expand to include increased muscle mass, better libido, improved strength, and overall enhanced quality of life, provided the therapy is combined with healthy lifestyle choices (nutrition, exercise, sleep).

Individual results vary based on factors like dosage, method of administration, baseline health status, and lifestyle.

TRT can be delivered in several ways, depending on patient needs and medical advice.Our optimal method is via a topical gel or cream. Methods include:

  • Injectable testosterone (commonly testosterone cypionate or enanthate)
  • Topical gels or creams
  • Implants (pellets under the skin) or patches. Less common, but sometimes available depending on the clinic.

Often, TRT becomes a long-term commitment. When you start TRT, your body’s natural production of testosterone typically shuts down, because your brain senses the external supply.

If you stop, your natural testosterone production may take a long time to recover and symptoms of low testosterone (e.g., fatigue, low mood, low libido, muscle loss) can return.

For many men, especially those with chronic hypogonadism, TRT continues indefinitely under regular medical supervision.

Treatment Process

Our simple step-by-step pathway is:

  1. Start with a blood test hyperlink to to blood test page/link (see below for additional pathology information)
  2. Book a consultation (telehealth) Our clinicians will review your blood results, medical history, and symptoms to determine eligibility.
  3. If eligible, receive a personalised treatment plan and prescription Medication is dispatched from our licensed Australian pharmacies directly to you.
  4. Begin treatment and monitor regularly through our patient support program Follow-up blood tests are usually required every 3–6 months during initial treatment, then periodically once stabilised.

If your results do not show clinically low testosterone, or if another underlying issue is detected, your doctor may recommend:

  • Repeat testing
  • Lifestyle improvements
  • Thyroid, metabolic or pituitary evaluation
  • Referral to a specialist

Compounded testosterone gels are supplied through our pharmacies specialising in customised formulations, and then delivered directly to your door. Typical delivery includes:

  • Discreet packaging to protect privacy
  • Cold-chain transport (if required) depending on the formulation
  • Express shipping (often 1–5 business days after pharmacy dispensing)
  • Tracking information sent via SMS or email
  • Repeat dispensing reminders to ensure you never run out

Because compounded gels are made to order, delivery may take slightly longer than standard S4 medications, but our pharmacies dispatch within 24–48 hours once the prescription is received.

Pathology Testing

Before you start TRT, it’s vital to confirm clinically that you have a real testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism), and to exclude other medical conditions that could influence symptoms or make TRT unsafe.

IGML emphasises that TRT should only be prescribed after thorough testing and medical oversight.

Because testosterone and related hormones fluctuate and many conditions (metabolic dysfunction, thyroid, liver/kidney issues, pituitary problems, etc.) can mimic low-T symptoms, a full diagnostic workup helps ensure safety, efficacy, and a personalised treatment plan.

Before starting Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), doctors usually require:

  1. Morning Total Testosterone Test – Confirms low testosterone levels.
  2. Luteinising Hormone (LH) and/or Free Testosterone – Helps identify the cause of low testosterone.
  3. Additional Baseline Tests – Often includes PSA (prostate health), full blood count (haematocrit/haemoglobin), liver function, and lipid profile to ensure safe treatment.

These tests ensure TRT is appropriate and safe for patients.

Using a dedicated private blood work panel helps ensure all necessary markers are tested, something GP-ordered panels may sometimes miss.

GP panels may omit key markers (e.g. SHBG, full hormone profile, metabolic/liver/kidney markers, lipids), which can lead to incomplete assessment and may result in being ineligible for TRT until full workup is done.

We recommend private, comprehensive panels for reliability and completeness before starting therapy.

If important tests are missed (e.g. only total testosterone, no SHBG, no LH/FSH, no metabolic panel), there is a risk of:

  • Misdiagnosis you may not have true hypogonadism, but e.g. obesity, metabolic disease or binding-protein alterations causing the symptoms.
  • Overlooking contraindications like raised haematocrit, prostate issues, liver/kidney disease, which may make TRT unsafe or high-risk.
  • Poor treatment planning incorrect dosage or method, leading to side effects or suboptimal results.
  • Missing alternative or contributing causes of symptoms (thyroid, metabolic, endocrine disorders).

Risks and Safety

Myth 1: “TRT is just steroid abuse.”

  • Reality: While testosterone is technically a steroid hormone, TRT uses medically prescribed, regulated doses to restore normal levels — not the massive doses used in anabolic steroid abuse.

Myth 2: “TRT causes prostate cancer.”

  • Reality: Current research does not show that doctor-supervised TRT causes prostate cancer in men without pre-existing disease.
  • Still, men on TRT should have regular PSA checks.

Myth 3: “You only need TRT when you’re old.”

  • Reality: Low testosterone (hypogonadism) can affect men of different ages, not just older men. It depends on individual health, hormone levels, and cause.

Myth 4: “Natural boosters are just as good.”

  • Reality: Lifestyle changes (exercise, diet, sleep) are always worthwhile — but for men with clinically diagnosed low T, TRT is the most reliable way to restore testosterone to healthy levels.

Yes TRT is legal in Australia, but it is regulated. Testosterone is a prescription-only medication. It can only be prescribed by a licensed physician (GP, endocrinologist, or qualified telehealth clinic doctor) when medically indicated.

Due to strict guidelines, clinics must confirm low testosterone via blood testing and clinical symptoms before prescribing. Not everyone who requests TRT will qualify.

Like any medical treatment, TRT carries potential risks and side effects especially if not properly monitored. Some commonly reported issues include:

  • Increased red blood cell production (polycythaemia) which can raise the risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack.
  • Worsening or onset of sleep apnoea in some men.
  • Acne, oily skin, or other skin reactions (particularly with topical formulations).
  • Potential breast tissue enlargement (gynecomastia) due to conversion of testosterone to oestrogen.
  • Reduced natural testosterone and sperm production which may affect fertility.
  • Possible urinary or prostate issues in men with pre-existing prostate conditions, though links between TRT and prostate cancer remain inconclusive.

Because of these risks, IGML emphasises minimal effective dosing, frequent blood monitoring, and individualised treatment plans.

Yes. If TRT is prescribed without appropriate blood tests, clinical evaluation, or ongoing monitoring, there’s a heightened risk of side effects, misuse, or long-term health consequences.

Because testosterone is a regulated medication, only registered and qualified doctors should prescribe it  and they must follow medical guidelines to ensure it’s used safely.

Treatment Costs

Usually not. Most private TRT clinics charge privately. Medication, blood tests, and consultations are typically at your expense.

Because each clinic offers different packages, dosing protocols, frequency of monitoring, and supply methods. Treatment is highly individualised — there is no “one size fits all.”

Categories

TRT Therapy

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a medically supervised treatment designed to restore testosterone levels in men whose bodies are not producing sufficient amounts naturally. Low testosterone, often due to hypogonadism, can cause symptoms such as fatigue, reduced libido, muscle loss, mood disturbances, weight gain, decreased motivation, and poor energy.

TRT aims to bring testosterone back into a healthy, physiological range, helping to improve energy, mood, muscle mass, sexual function, and overall quality of life.

Men choose TRT because low testosterone (low T) can lead to a range of troublesome symptoms:

  • Low libido or sexual dysfunction. Reduced sex drive and difficulty maintaining erections are common.
  • Fatigue and low energy. Even with rest, men may feel drained, less motivated, or struggle with concentration.
  • Mood issues. Low testosterone may contribute to irritability, low mood, or “flat” emotions.
  • Reduced muscle, strength & increased body fat. Testosterone supports muscle protein synthesis. When it’s low, muscle mass declines and fat, especially around the belly, can go up.
  • Weight gain and metabolic impacts. Low T may slow metabolism, making fat loss more difficult.

By restoring testosterone, TRT aims to help alleviate these symptoms and improve quality of life.

You may be eligible for TRT if:

  • You have symptoms consistent with low testosterone (e.g., chronic fatigue, low libido, muscle loss, mood changes, reduced motivation).
  • Blood tests show clinically low testosterone levels. IGML require two separate blood tests to confirm low serum testosterone before approving TRT.
  • Our IGML clinicians (registered Australian doctors) evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and bloodwork to rule out other possible causes.

Because of these strict criteria, not all men who request TRT are accepted. Some are deemed ineligible.

IGML patients report improvements in energy, mood, and motivation within 3–4 weeks of starting TRT. Over the following 2–3 months, benefits often expand to include increased muscle mass, better libido, improved strength, and overall enhanced quality of life, provided the therapy is combined with healthy lifestyle choices (nutrition, exercise, sleep).

Individual results vary based on factors like dosage, method of administration, baseline health status, and lifestyle.

TRT can be delivered in several ways, depending on patient needs and medical advice.Our optimal method is via a topical gel or cream. Methods include:

  • Injectable testosterone (commonly testosterone cypionate or enanthate)
  • Topical gels or creams
  • Implants (pellets under the skin) or patches. Less common, but sometimes available depending on the clinic.

Often, TRT becomes a long-term commitment. When you start TRT, your body’s natural production of testosterone typically shuts down, because your brain senses the external supply.

If you stop, your natural testosterone production may take a long time to recover and symptoms of low testosterone (e.g., fatigue, low mood, low libido, muscle loss) can return.

For many men, especially those with chronic hypogonadism, TRT continues indefinitely under regular medical supervision.

Our simple step-by-step pathway is:

  1. Start with a blood test hyperlink to to blood test page/link (see below for additional pathology information)
  2. Book a consultation (telehealth) Our clinicians will review your blood results, medical history, and symptoms to determine eligibility.
  3. If eligible, receive a personalised treatment plan and prescription Medication is dispatched from our licensed Australian pharmacies directly to you.
  4. Begin treatment and monitor regularly through our patient support program Follow-up blood tests are usually required every 3–6 months during initial treatment, then periodically once stabilised.

If your results do not show clinically low testosterone, or if another underlying issue is detected, your doctor may recommend:

  • Repeat testing
  • Lifestyle improvements
  • Thyroid, metabolic or pituitary evaluation
  • Referral to a specialist

Compounded testosterone gels are supplied through our pharmacies specialising in customised formulations, and then delivered directly to your door. Typical delivery includes:

  • Discreet packaging to protect privacy
  • Cold-chain transport (if required) depending on the formulation
  • Express shipping (often 1–5 business days after pharmacy dispensing)
  • Tracking information sent via SMS or email
  • Repeat dispensing reminders to ensure you never run out

Because compounded gels are made to order, delivery may take slightly longer than standard S4 medications, but our pharmacies dispatch within 24–48 hours once the prescription is received.

Before you start TRT, it’s vital to confirm clinically that you have a real testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism), and to exclude other medical conditions that could influence symptoms or make TRT unsafe.

IGML emphasises that TRT should only be prescribed after thorough testing and medical oversight.

Because testosterone and related hormones fluctuate and many conditions (metabolic dysfunction, thyroid, liver/kidney issues, pituitary problems, etc.) can mimic low-T symptoms, a full diagnostic workup helps ensure safety, efficacy, and a personalised treatment plan.

Before starting Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), doctors usually require:

  1. Morning Total Testosterone Test – Confirms low testosterone levels.
  2. Luteinising Hormone (LH) and/or Free Testosterone – Helps identify the cause of low testosterone.
  3. Additional Baseline Tests – Often includes PSA (prostate health), full blood count (haematocrit/haemoglobin), liver function, and lipid profile to ensure safe treatment.

These tests ensure TRT is appropriate and safe for patients.

Using a dedicated private blood work panel helps ensure all necessary markers are tested, something GP-ordered panels may sometimes miss.

GP panels may omit key markers (e.g. SHBG, full hormone profile, metabolic/liver/kidney markers, lipids), which can lead to incomplete assessment and may result in being ineligible for TRT until full workup is done.

We recommend private, comprehensive panels for reliability and completeness before starting therapy.

If important tests are missed (e.g. only total testosterone, no SHBG, no LH/FSH, no metabolic panel), there is a risk of:

  • Misdiagnosis you may not have true hypogonadism, but e.g. obesity, metabolic disease or binding-protein alterations causing the symptoms.
  • Overlooking contraindications like raised haematocrit, prostate issues, liver/kidney disease, which may make TRT unsafe or high-risk.
  • Poor treatment planning incorrect dosage or method, leading to side effects or suboptimal results.
  • Missing alternative or contributing causes of symptoms (thyroid, metabolic, endocrine disorders).

Myth 1: “TRT is just steroid abuse.”

  • Reality: While testosterone is technically a steroid hormone, TRT uses medically prescribed, regulated doses to restore normal levels — not the massive doses used in anabolic steroid abuse.

Myth 2: “TRT causes prostate cancer.”

  • Reality: Current research does not show that doctor-supervised TRT causes prostate cancer in men without pre-existing disease.
  • Still, men on TRT should have regular PSA checks.

Myth 3: “You only need TRT when you’re old.”

  • Reality: Low testosterone (hypogonadism) can affect men of different ages, not just older men. It depends on individual health, hormone levels, and cause.

Myth 4: “Natural boosters are just as good.”

  • Reality: Lifestyle changes (exercise, diet, sleep) are always worthwhile — but for men with clinically diagnosed low T, TRT is the most reliable way to restore testosterone to healthy levels.

Yes TRT is legal in Australia, but it is regulated. Testosterone is a prescription-only medication. It can only be prescribed by a licensed physician (GP, endocrinologist, or qualified telehealth clinic doctor) when medically indicated.

Due to strict guidelines, clinics must confirm low testosterone via blood testing and clinical symptoms before prescribing. Not everyone who requests TRT will qualify.

Like any medical treatment, TRT carries potential risks and side effects especially if not properly monitored. Some commonly reported issues include:

  • Increased red blood cell production (polycythaemia) which can raise the risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack.
  • Worsening or onset of sleep apnoea in some men.
  • Acne, oily skin, or other skin reactions (particularly with topical formulations).
  • Potential breast tissue enlargement (gynecomastia) due to conversion of testosterone to oestrogen.
  • Reduced natural testosterone and sperm production which may affect fertility.
  • Possible urinary or prostate issues in men with pre-existing prostate conditions, though links between TRT and prostate cancer remain inconclusive.

Because of these risks, IGML emphasises minimal effective dosing, frequent blood monitoring, and individualised treatment plans.

Yes. If TRT is prescribed without appropriate blood tests, clinical evaluation, or ongoing monitoring, there’s a heightened risk of side effects, misuse, or long-term health consequences.

Because testosterone is a regulated medication, only registered and qualified doctors should prescribe it  and they must follow medical guidelines to ensure it’s used safely.

Usually not. Most private TRT clinics charge privately. Medication, blood tests, and consultations are typically at your expense.

Because each clinic offers different packages, dosing protocols, frequency of monitoring, and supply methods. Treatment is highly individualised — there is no “one size fits all.”