Testosterone Replacement Treatment (TRT)
Personalized Testosterone Replacement Treatment (TRT)
Dr. Robert Fortino, an experienced men’s health physician has providing in-person testosterone replacement therapy for men for 25+ years.
Low testosterone (Low T) can affect more than a number on a lab report. Men may notice changes in energy, sexual health, concentration, strength, body composition, or simply how they feel from day to day.
While these symptoms may be associated with low testosterone (Low T), they can also have other causes.
That’s why Dr. Robert Fortino doesn’t approach men’s hormone health by treating a number alone.
Dr. Fortino looks at the bigger picture—including symptoms, hormone health, metabolic health, body composition, nutrition, strength, and lifestyle.
For men diagnosed with testosterone deficiency, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be one part of a broader approach to men’s health. The goal is not simply to raise testosterone levels.
It is to understand what is happening with your health and determine which treatment, if any, makes medical sense for you.
Because better men’s health starts with understanding the whole man—not just his testosterone level.
Age Well, You’ve Earned It
Our TRT Process
STEP ONE
Health Assessment
A detailed health intake followed by comprehensive blood work will be scheduled.
STEP TWO
Consultation
A detailed consultation and physical exam with a board certified anti-aging medical doctor to review your specific health issues and concerns.
STEP THREE
Personalized Treatment Plan
An individualized plan will be formulated to meet your personal health needs followed by routine follow up visits.
What Are the Signs and Causes of Low Testosterone?
The symptoms of low testosterone (Low T) can vary from one man to another. Some men notice gradual changes over time, while others experience several symptoms at once.
Common signs and symptoms of low testosterone may include low energy, decreased libido, difficulty concentrating, changes in mood, reduced strength, and changes in body composition. Some men may also experience changes in sexual function or physical performance.
However, Low T symptoms do not always mean that testosterone levels are low. Stress, poor sleep, medications, metabolic health, and other medical conditions can cause similar concerns.
Therefore, recognizing the symptoms is only the first step. Testosterone testing and a medical evaluation can help determine whether low testosterone may be contributing to how you feel.
Primary Hypogonadism
Primary hypogonadism occurs when the testicles do not produce enough testosterone. Possible causes include certain genetic conditions, testicular injury or infection, chemotherapy or radiation, iron overload disorders such as hemochromatosis, and other conditions that affect testicular function.
Secondary Hypogonadism
Secondary hypogonadism occurs when the hypothalamus or pituitary gland does not properly signal the testicles to produce testosterone. Potential contributors include pituitary disorders, certain medications, opioid use, obesity, some chronic illnesses, nutritional deficiencies, and other conditions that affect hormone regulation.
Testosterone levels can also decline with age. However, symptoms should not automatically be attributed to aging or Low T. Testosterone testing and a medical evaluation can help identify possible causes and determine the appropriate next step.
You Deserve Answers and a Roadmap.
Understand your symptoms. Know your options.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Reclaim Your Edge.
How Is Low Testosterone Diagnosed?
Diagnosing low testosterone (Low T) involves more than checking a single number. Your symptoms, medical history, overall health, medications, and laboratory results all provide important information.
Testosterone blood testing typically begins with total testosterone. Depending on the patient and initial results, additional testing may include free testosterone, estradiol, DHEA, SHBG, thyroid function, glucose, insulin, lipid levels, and liver and kidney function.
Because testosterone levels can vary, repeat testing may be needed to confirm a low result. The Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline recommends diagnosing testosterone deficiency based on symptoms and consistently low testosterone levels, confirmed with repeat morning testing.
Dr. Fortino reviews your laboratory results together with your symptoms and overall health. This helps determine whether testosterone deficiency may be contributing to your concerns and whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be appropriate.
No Better Time Than Now,
To Get Started!
Who Is a Candidate for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
Not every man with fatigue, weight changes, decreased libido, or reduced strength needs TRT. Likewise, age alone does not determine whether someone should start testosterone therapy.
A candidate for testosterone replacement therapy should have symptoms and clinical findings that support a diagnosis of testosterone deficiency. Dr. Fortino also considers overall health, medical history, medications, laboratory results, and individual risk factors before recommending treatment.
Certain health conditions may affect whether Low T treatment is right for you. For that reason, Dr. Fortino considers each patient’s individual health needs before recommending TRT.
If TRT is right for you, Dr. Fortino will work with you to develop a treatment plan based on your health, results, and individual goals.
Is TRT Right For You?
Your Men’s Health Journey Starts Here.
What Are the Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
For men with confirmed testosterone deficiency, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can raise testosterone levels and may improve certain symptoms associated with low testosterone (Low T).
Clinical research has found that TRT may improve sexual activity, sexual desire, and erectile function in appropriately selected men with low testosterone.
Other research from the Testosterone Trials has reported benefits in areas such as anemia and bone density. However, the benefits of TRT vary, and treatment does not improve every symptom in every patient.
For that reason, testosterone replacement therapy should focus on your diagnosis, symptoms, overall health, testosterone levels, and individual response to therapy. Dr. Fortino monitors these factors to determine whether treatment is providing meaningful clinical benefit.
Peer-reviewed research: Effects of Testosterone Treatment in Older Men — PubMe
You Deserve Answers and a Roadmap. Understand your Symptoms. Know your Options.
What to Expect From Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Starting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) should involve more than receiving a prescription. At Dr. Fortino’s TRT clinic, treatment begins with an individualized medical approach based on your diagnosis, health needs, and treatment goals.
When TRT is medically appropriate, Dr. Fortino develops a personalized testosterone treatment plan. For men treated with injectable testosterone, dosing can be adjusted based on clinical response and appropriate laboratory monitoring.
Follow-up care is an important part of testosterone treatment. Dr. Fortino monitors your progress throughout testosterone therapy, including your clinical response and appropriate laboratory results. When needed, he can adjust your TRT plan based on your individual needs.
The goal is an ongoing physician-patient relationship that supports informed decisions about your testosterone replacement therapy and overall health.
TRT Questions?
We’re Here To Help.
What Causes Low Testosterone (Low T)in Men?
Low testosterone (Low T), also called male hypogonadism, can have several causes. In general, testosterone deficiency may result from a problem with the testicles themselves or with the brain signals that regulate testosterone production.
Primary Hypogonadism
Primary hypogonadism occurs when the testicles do not produce enough testosterone. Potential causes include certain genetic conditions, testicular injury or infection, chemotherapy or radiation, iron overload disorders such as hemochromatosis, and other conditions that affect testicular function.
Secondary Hypogonadism
Secondary hypogonadism occurs when the hypothalamus or pituitary gland does not properly signal the testicles to produce testosterone. Potential contributors include pituitary disorders, certain medications, opioid use, obesity, some chronic illnesses, nutritional deficiencies, and other conditions that affect hormone regulation.
Testosterone levels can also decline with age. However, low testosterone symptoms should not automatically be attributed to aging. A medical evaluation and appropriate testosterone testing can help identify possible causes and determine whether Low T treatment or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) should be considered.
Low Testosterone? Know Your Levels.
Understand Your Options.
Why Choose Dr. Fortino for Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Dr. Robert Fortino brings more than 30 years of medical experience to men’s health and testosterone care. His approach combines medical expertise with a practical understanding of fitness, nutrition, metabolic health, and the changes men may experience as they age
His approach to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) goes beyond reaching a target number on a laboratory report. Dr. Fortino considers how each patient feels and functions, along with symptoms, testosterone levels, overall health, and response to treatment.
His background also includes military medicine. As a Lt. Col. and Flight Surgeon in the New Jersey Air National Guard, Dr. Fortino brings decades of medical experience, discipline, and attention to detail to the care of his patients.
At Dr. Fortino’s TRT clinic, he may prescribe injectable testosterone for men with diagnosed testosterone deficiency when medically appropriate. Dr. Fortino individualizes the dose and treatment schedule based on each patient’s needs and clinical response.
Dr. Fortino also understands that men’s health extends beyond testosterone. His experience includes medical weight management, nutrition, fitness, peptide therapy, and amino acid supplementation, allowing him to consider the broader health needs of each patient.
For Dr. Fortino, Low T treatment is not about a quick fix. It is about providing experienced medical guidance, individualized care, and a long-term approach to men’s health..
Low T? Let’s Find Out.
Confidence Isn’t a Phase. It’s a Lifestyle.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy FAQ
How Do I Get Started With a Testosterone Therapy Appointment With Dr. Fortino?
Getting started is easy. New patients can call our Philadelphia office at 215-336-8000 or our South Jersey office at 856-318-4100 Monday through Friday, when our phones are answered live by our team.
If you are visiting our website after hours—or simply prefer the convenience of starting online—you can complete our online contact form at any time. A Patient Care Coordinator will reach out to begin your FREE telephone consultation.
Your privacy matters to us. When our team calls or leaves a message, we communicate discreetly as “Dr. Fortino’s office” and do not mention testosterone therapy, Low T, medications, or the reason for your inquiry. We respect the privacy and confidentiality of your communications with our office.
During your free telephone consultation, your Patient Care Coordinator can answer general questions about Dr. Fortino’s testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) services, explain pricing and office procedures, assist with new-patient paperwork, and help schedule your 30-minute medical exam and consultation with Dr. Fortino and his clinical team.
You do not need to know whether testosterone therapy is right for you before contacting us. Our team will help you understand the process, and Dr. Fortino will determine whether additional evaluation, laboratory testing, or testosterone treatment may be appropriate after your medical evaluation.
Philadelphia: 215-336-8000
South Jersey: 856-318-4100
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How long does it take for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to work?
The response to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) varies from person to person. Some men with diagnosed low testosterone (Low T) may notice changes in certain symptoms within several weeks, while other changes may take several months.
Your response can depend on your testosterone levels, symptoms, overall health, treatment plan, and other individual factors. Dr. Fortino monitors your progress and appropriate laboratory results throughout testosterone therapy to determine how you are responding and whether treatment adjustments are medically appropriate.
How do I know if I need Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
Symptoms such as low energy, decreased libido, reduced strength, difficulty concentrating, or changes in body composition may be associated with low testosterone (Low T). However, symptoms alone cannot determine whether you need testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
A medical evaluation and testosterone blood testing can help determine whether Low T may be contributing to your symptoms. If testing confirms low testosterone, Dr. Fortino will review your overall health, medical history, symptoms, and laboratory results to determine whether TRT may be appropriate.
How do you check testosterone levels?
Testosterone levels are checked with a blood test. Testing typically includes total and free testosterone and may include other laboratory tests to evaluate low testosterone (Low T) and overall health.
Depending on the patient, Dr. Fortino may also evaluate estradiol, DHEA, SHBG, thyroid function, vitamin D, liver and kidney function, glucose, insulin, lipid levels, and inflammation markers.
Dr. Fortino reviews these results along with your symptoms, medical history, medications, and lifestyle to determine whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is medically appropriate. If recommended, treatment is individualized and monitored based on your health and response.
Dr. Fortino’s TRT clinic provides the follow-up Low T consultation to review your lab results at no additional charge.
Can low testosterone be treated permanently?
Whether low testosterone (Low T) can be treated permanently depends on its underlying cause. In some men, addressing certain medications or health conditions may improve testosterone levels. However, other causes of testosterone deficiency may require ongoing management.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can increase testosterone levels during treatment, but it does not necessarily correct the underlying cause of Low T. Therefore, a medical evaluation and testosterone blood testing can help determine the cause and guide the appropriate treatment approach.
Can I stop TRT after 6 months?
Yes, you can discuss stopping testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) with your medical provider after six months or at any time. However, stopping TRT may cause testosterone levels to decline again, and symptoms of low testosterone (Low T) may return.
Before stopping treatment, your provider should consider your symptoms, testosterone levels, overall health, and response to therapy. In addition, follow-up testosterone blood testing may be recommended after stopping TRT to monitor hormone levels and symptoms.
Is there an age imit for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
There is no single age limit that determines whether a man is a candidate for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Instead, treatment decisions depend on symptoms, medical history, overall health, and laboratory testing that confirms low testosterone.
As men age, testosterone levels may decline. However, age alone does not mean that a man needs testosterone treatment. A medical provider should evaluate symptoms and testosterone levels before considering TRT.
For older men, individual health risks and potential benefits require careful consideration. When TRT is medically appropriate, ongoing monitoring helps the provider evaluate testosterone levels, treatment response, and overall health.
Can I take TRT and GLP-1 Semaglutide for weight loss at the same time?
n some patients, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and GLP-1 Semaglutide for weight loss may be used at the same time when each treatment is medically appropriate.
TRT and GLP-1 Semaglutide weight loss treatment serve different purposes. TRT treats diagnosed low testosterone, while Semaglutide can help reduce appetite and support weight management.
Dr. Fortino considers your medical history, symptoms, medications, laboratory results, and overall health before recommending treatment. If both treatments are appropriate, he can develop an individualized plan and monitor your response.
Can low testosterone affect muscle mass and body composition?
Yes. Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining muscle mass, strength, and body composition in men. Low testosterone (Low T) may be associated with reduced lean muscle mass, decreased strength, and increased body fat, although these changes can also be influenced by age, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, medications, and other health conditions.
For men with symptoms of testosterone deficiency, appropriate blood testing and medical evaluation can help determine whether Low T may be contributing. When testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is medically appropriate, treatment should be combined with attention to strength training, nutrition, physical activity, and overall metabolic health rather than viewed as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
What is the difference between Low Testosterone and normal age-related changes?
Testosterone levels can change as men age, but low testosterone (Low T) is not diagnosed based on age or symptoms alone. Symptoms such as low energy, decreased libido, reduced strength, difficulty concentrating, and changes in body composition can have several possible causes.
A medical evaluation can help determine whether symptoms may be related to testosterone deficiency or another health concern. This typically includes a review of symptoms and medical history along with appropriate testosterone blood testing.
If testing confirms low testosterone and treatment is medically appropriate, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be considered as part of an individualized treatment plan.
What happens if low testosterone (Low T) is left untreated?
Low testosterone (Low T) can affect men differently, and symptoms may persist or change over time when an underlying testosterone deficiency is not addressed. Low T may be associated with reduced sex drive, low energy, changes in mood, decreased muscle mass and strength, increased body fat, and changes in bone health.
Because these symptoms can also be caused by other medical or lifestyle factors, proper evaluation and testosterone blood testing are important. If testosterone deficiency is confirmed, Dr. Fortino can determine whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or another approach may be medically appropriate.
Can L-Arginine be used with Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
L-Arginine Injections and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) support different aspects of men’s health. TRT treats medically diagnosed low testosterone (Low T), while L-Arginine is an amino acid involved in nitric oxide production and healthy blood flow.
Research suggests that L-Arginine may support erectile function in some men, particularly those with mild-to-moderate erectile dysfunction. However, L-Arginine does not replace Low T treatment or increase the effectiveness of TRT itself.
Dr. Fortino can determine whether L-Arginine is appropriate as part of an individualized men’s health and TRT treatment plan.
Source: Rhim HC, et al. The Potential Role of Arginine Supplements on Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2019.
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