Testosterone is a widely known word that is relevant to health and other related fields. Usually associated with some characteristic male behaviours, testosterone is a hormone that plays a major role in muscle development and the quality of life and the health of most mammals, including humans.
Here are some facts about testosterone that will tell you all you need to know about this essential hormone;
Testosterone is present in males and females, with females producing an amount that is considerably lesser than males. It is majorly produced by the testes in males, the ovaries in females and the adrenal glands in both genders.
The hypothalamus, a part of the brain, stimulates the pituitary gland when there is a reduced level of testosterone in the body. The pituitary gland then transmits signals to the testes and ovaries to produce testosterone. The hypothalamus is also responsible for regulating the level of testosterone in the blood. When the hormone reaches excess levels, the hypothalamus sends a message to the pituitary gland to limit the production of testosterone.
A few weeks after conception, the fetal body develops testosterone which is responsible for the development of the internal and external reproductive system. During puberty, testosterone influences the growth of secondary sexual characteristics in males, some of which include;
- Growth of hair on the armpits, face and pubic region. The chest, arms and legs can also experience rapid hair growth
- Deepening of the voice
- Development of the penis and testicles
- Increase in muscle size and strength
- Increase in height
Apart from puberty, testosterone is also responsible for several essential bodily functions. It regulates the development of muscle mass and strength. It also allows for the growth of bone mass and density. The sexual drive and production of fat cells in the body are influenced by testosterone. It is a significant factor in the formation of sperm and the production of red blood cells.
After birth, the testosterone level continues to increase until adolescence, when it reaches a peak. After age 30 to 40, the production of testosterone begins to decline gradually at an average of 1.6% every year. A condition in which the glands produce excess amounts of testosterone is known as hypergonadism. Hypogonadism refers to the low production of testosterone.
Hypogonadism can occur as a result of various reasons. Disorders of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and testes can affect the regulation of testosterone production. Other causes of hypogonadism include;
- Undescended testicles that are not corrected
- Trauma to the testes
- Radiation therapy in cancer treatment
- Immunodeficiency disorders (HIV/AIDS)
- Obesity
- Drugs such as opioids and steroids
- Haemochromatosis
Low production of testosterone can have a significant impact on physical and reproductive health. Hypogonadism usually causes the following signs and symptoms;
- Low or depressed mood
- Decreased strength
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Osteoporosis and other bone diseases
- Growth of the breast in males
- Hot flashes
- Infertility
Hypergonadism is a condition that affects both genders, especially women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The excess testosterone in the blood can cause baldness, acne and skin disorders. It can cause the premature onset of puberty in boys. In women, hypergonadism can cause;
- Excess growth of hair on the face and limbs
- Deepening of the voice
- Menstrual disorders
- Virilization
Testosterone replacement therapy is used to treat symptoms associated with low testosterone levels. While this treatment might not affect the production of testosterone, especially in late-onset hypogonadism (low testosterone levels due to advanced age), it can be used to supplement the hormone and provide benefits that are characteristic of naturally occurring testosterone.
Testosterone replacement therapy is available in various forms, such as patches, topical gels and intramuscular injections. The treatment has a number of benefits, including an increase in muscle mass and bone density. It can also help in treating erectile dysfunction in the elderly and improve their libido. The use of testosterone supplements can provide extra energy and increase muscle strength.
RAD-140 (Testolone)
Testolone is a SARM that mimics the action of testosterone in the body. It is a drug that can be injected into the body to gain many benefits that are usually provided as a result of naturally occurring testosterone.
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are compounds that bind to particular cells in the body. Unlike steroids which affect the organs and systems, SARMs mainly bind to muscle, bone and fat tissues. It is considered much safer than anabolic steroids as it limits its action to specific areas in the body.
Learn more about Testolone and where you can buy rad-140
The use of RAD 140 became more widespread due to its positive effects and rate of effectiveness. Some of such effects are;
- Rapid growth of muscle bulk: Testolone is said to fast-track the repair and regeneration of muscle cells after a gruelling workout, resulting in the build up of muscle mass at a faster pace.
- Provides energy and strength: There are numerous claims that RAD 140 can significantly boost one’s muscle strength and influence the body’s energy conversion. An increased source of energy means the user will be able to spend more time doing exercises and, as a result, get rapid results.
- Promotes weight loss: Testolone influences the way the body metabolizes fat. It inhibits the proliferation and storage of fat cells, leading to a drastic reduction in weight. It is said to be highly beneficial for people who want to shed fat without losing muscle mass.
- Prevents muscle loss: One of the most significant benefits of testolone is its ability to prevent the loss of gained muscle mass. Its mode of action is specially geared towards keeping your existing muscle cells intact while you undergo various stages of your fitness regimen. It is believed that this quality makes the compound a good treatment for muscle wastage.
Testolone was produced as a therapy for symptoms that accompany chronic diseases like cancer. Nowadays, it is mostly used by bodybuilders as a way of achieving their muscle gain goals rapidly. It is also used by people suffering from hypogonadism to correct the deficiencies caused by low amounts of testosterone in the body.