Testosterone Therapy: Does It Work, and Will You Need It Forever?

Actor Josh Duhamel loves his testosterone therapy. The 53-year-old actor just opened up about his hormone therapy on Dave Asprey’s “The Human Upgrade” podcast, explaining that he learned he had low testosterone in his early 40s.

“I feel better now than I did in my early to mid-30s,” the actor said. “I’m not even kidding you. My joints, my back, my knees. I just feel stronger.”

According to USA Today, other public figures like Joe Rogan and Dax Shepard have also spoken about their use of the hormone therapy. And testosterone has made headlines with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announcing the U.S. military will begin testing troops’ testosterone levels. 

All of the buzz around the hormone has caused more men to ask their doctors and healthcare providers whether testosterone therapy could help them too.

Men are asking: does is work? Will they need it forever?

How Quickly Does Testosterone Therapy Work?

In a recent social media reel, ThriveX Medical’s Dr. Mary Van addressed two common questions from a 62-year-old prospective patient: How quickly does testosterone therapy work, and how long would he need to stay on it?

Dr. Van says some patients notice changes early in treatment, “usually within that first week.”

However, results vary. An early improvement does not mean every benefit will arrive immediately, and patients should avoid measuring their progress against a celebrity’s experience.

For men with diagnosed testosterone deficiency, treatment may improve sexual symptoms, muscle mass and bone health. Changes develop over time, and visible muscle definition is not guaranteed on a fixed schedule.

The goal is to address a confirmed deficiency and improve related symptoms, with a treatment plan tailored to the patient.

Will I be on It Forever?

Dr. Van explained that treatment can be a long-term commitment for some men. Discussing that possibility, she said, “I don’t necessarily think it’s a bad thing.”

But age alone cannot determine whether someone needs lifelong treatment. The underlying cause matters. According to the Endocrine Society, certain conditions may require ongoing replacement, while other contributors to low testosterone may improve when addressed.

Patients should understand why their levels are low, what alternatives may be appropriate and how their provider will evaluate the benefits of continuing treatment.

Testing Comes Before Treatment

Feeling tired or noticing a lower sex drive does not automatically mean testosterone is the problem. The Endocrine Society recommends diagnosing testosterone deficiency when compatible symptoms accompany consistently low levels. That evaluation typically includes two separate early-morning blood tests. 

Medical history, medications, sleep and fertility plans also belong in the conversation. Testosterone therapy can reduce sperm production.

“Before starting testosterone, we need to understand what’s causing your symptoms and whether your lab results confirm a deficiency,” says Dr. Van. “Then we can discuss whether treatment is appropriate and how we’ll monitor your progress.” 

Actor Josh Duhamel’s enthusiasm may start the conversation about testosterone, but your own symptoms, testing, and health history should guide the decision.

Interested in learning more? Call ThriveX to schedule a consultation and discuss whether testosterone therapy is right for you.

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