Urology · University Urology, PC · Knoxville, TN
Low Testosterone (Low T)
Low testosterone is a common and treatable hormonal condition affecting men of all ages. Fatigue, low libido, mood changes, and reduced muscle mass are not simply "part of getting older" — they may be signs of hypogonadism that responds well to treatment.
About Low T
What Is Low Testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, produced mainly in the testes. It plays a role in libido, energy, mood, muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, and sperm production. Low testosterone (hypogonadism) is diagnosed when blood testosterone levels are consistently below normal range — typically below 300 ng/dL — in the setting of compatible symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Fatigue and low energy · Reduced sex drive · Erectile dysfunction · Depressed mood or irritability · Reduced muscle mass · Increased body fat · Difficulty concentrating · Reduced bone density
Important Note on Fertility
Testosterone replacement therapy suppresses sperm production and should not be used in men who wish to father children. Men with low testosterone and fertility goals require a different treatment approach. University Urology’s andrologist, Dr. Kim, specializes in this exact situation.
Testosterone replacement is a controlled substance requiring an office visit
Testosterone cannot be prescribed or refilled via Klara or over the phone. Ongoing testosterone therapy requires periodic in-person evaluation to monitor levels, hematocrit, and response to treatment.
Treatment
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options
Intramuscular Injections
Testosterone cypionate or enanthate injected every 1–2 weeks. Effective and inexpensive. Levels fluctuate between doses.
Topical Gels / Creams
Applied daily to skin. Convenient but requires care to avoid transfer to partners or children.
Subcutaneous Pellets
Small pellets implanted under the skin every 3–6 months. Provides stable, steady levels without daily or weekly administration.
Our Specialists
Low T Specialists at University Urology
Andrology · Only Fellowship-Trained Andrologist in East TN
Dr. Edward D. Kim
Low T, male infertility, vasectomy reversal, ED, penile prosthesis
Reconstructive Urology
Dr. John M. Lacy
Low testosterone, male sexual health, penile prosthesis
General Urology
Dr. Jonathan W. Angelle
Low testosterone, general urology, men’s health
Advanced Practice Provider
Hannah Sherrod, FNP-C
Low T management, men’s health
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
My testosterone came back low. Do I automatically need treatment?
Not necessarily. Treatment is indicated when low testosterone levels are combined with compatible symptoms. A single low testosterone value should be confirmed with a repeat morning test before treatment is initiated. Your urologist will review both your labs and your symptoms together.
I want to start a family. Can I still treat low testosterone?
Testosterone replacement suppresses sperm production and will cause infertility if used in men trying to conceive. If low testosterone is combined with a desire for fertility, clomiphene citrate or hCG therapy can raise testosterone levels while preserving sperm production. Dr. Kim specializes in this approach.
Can I get a testosterone refill through Klara?
No. Testosterone is a controlled substance and cannot be refilled via Klara or by phone. An office visit is required. This is both a regulatory requirement and good clinical practice — ongoing TRT requires monitoring of your levels and red blood cell count.
Low Energy, Low Libido, Low T?
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