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12/16/08
As men, we create the testosterone we need to live and reproduce. Our pituitary gland in the brain senses the levels of testosterone in the bloodstream, and sends “marching orders” to the testes to start, or halt, production.
As one ages, the body produces less and less testosterone. Or, if you use anabolic steroids or synthetic testosterone for muscle gain, and you stop taking it, your body very often chooses not to produce its own testosterone anymore. The pituitary, after all, senses the presence of (artificial) testosterone in the bloodstream and tells the testes to halt production. The longer the pituitary gland tells the testes not to produce testosterone, the longer it takes for normal testosterone production to resume. In some males, due to extended use or just plain aging, natural testosterone production never returns. In cases like these, artificial testosterone is added to the body through a variety of means to help the male live a stronger, better life through artificially high testosterone levels.
Many bodybuilders and powerlifters order synthetic testosterone online and inject it into their body several times per week. While this is a highly effective way to boost testosterone levels and maintain a great deal of muscle mass (and raging libido!), it’s not always practical for some people. The use of needles, the high cost of obtaining it, and legal issues – as many doctors won’t prescribe injectable testosterone – are all factors which block use. Additionally, high levels of testosterone in the body can lead to unwanted side effects, such as hair loss, prostate growth, and accelerated risk of cancer.
For those wanting some help in the testosterone department without using injectable testosterone, a new option is available. Transdermal Testosterone (TT) is available in a time-release patch called AndroGel. The patch can be applied to either the scrotum, or to a wide area of the body, such as thigh or back. Here are a few questions about the patch, and how it relates to bodybuilders.
How does it work?
It’s a simple process. Testosterone moves from the patch into the bloodstream, where it attaches itself to the androgen receptors in muscle (and other) tissue. As a result, muscles begin to grow, strength increases, and fat is shed.
Is there a use of the patch for bodybuilders?
Most competitive bodybuilders use a level of artificial testosterone that is much greater than the small dose delvered with a patch. For this reason, a patch should only be used with competitive bodybuilders during the “cruising” phase, when taking a break from heavy AAS use.
I’m on the fence – do I really need it?
Don’t’ ask yourself if you need the patch. Instead, ask yourself if you need the testosterone. Higher testosterone levels lead to a greater quality of life and longer lifespan in many cases, despite the side effects. Chances of heart disease skyrocket in people with low testosterone. Additionally, consider the quality of life. Do you want to face each day feeling like an old man, or like a strong 25-year old? The choice is a personal one, and one that should be decided after considering all the factors involved.
