Q. How does cream dosing compare to oral or injection routes of administration?
A. Bioidentical testosterone administered through the skin bypasses gastrointestinal and hepatic metabolism, thereby reducing the risk of side effects compared to oral formulations. Transdermal delivery may also offer patient friendly advantages over injectable forms, as properly dosed topical testosterone is less likely to produce supraphysiologic serum levels. Notably, the TRAVERSE trial found no increased cardiovascular risk with transdermal testosterone compared to placebo.¹
However, testosterone cream may present dosing challenges, as factors such as daily adherence, skin hydration, and application technique can contribute to variability in achieving consistent serum levels.
Q. What do you mean that the medication is "bioidentical?"
A. "Bioidentical' means it is the same exact molecule as produced naturally by the body. In contrast, methyltestosterone is a synthetic, and the body may metabolize it differently and may have physiological effects that diverge from naturally produced testosterone. Bioidentical hormones provide some reassurance that the medication behaves in a normal physiologic fashion and potential unwanted effects are minimized.
Q. How does Strive's testosterone cream compare to commercial testosterone gels?
Strive's testosterone creams are compounded using pharmaceutical-grade ingredients in bases specifically optimized for hormone delivery. Unlike commercial gels, which are typically formulated for male dosing, compounded creams can be customized to meet the individualized needs of patients, especially women, who often require significantly lower doses. This tailored approach helps reduce the risk of dosing errors and improves therapeutic precision.
Q. Can women use testosterone?
A. Yes. Even though testosterone is often viewed as a male hormone, it is critical in both men and women, albeit in different amounts. With levels in women generally one-tenth of that in men, extra care must be taken when dosing in women. Though testosterone is sometimes given to menopausal women along with progesterone and estrogen, a decline in levels appears to be age related throughout the adult years rather than at onset of perimenopause. Low testosterone in women may manifest as symptoms of declining body composition, frailty, low libido, depression or anxiety disorders, low energy levels, pain with intercourse, and an increased risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI). Despite this, there is no FDA approved testosterone product for women! Multiple Strive testosterone medications can fulfill the unique dosing requirements of testosterone in women.
Q: How long does it take to notice results?
A: Some patients may notice benefit within a few weeks, but it might take several months for the full benefits to be observed.
Q: Can I stop using it abruptly?
A. Consult your healthcare provider before stopping therapy, as abrupt discontinuation may affect hormone levels.
Q: What if I miss a dose?
A. Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose.
