TRT Myths Busted: Testosterone Therapy in Edina, MN
- Gary M. Rudashevsky, NP
- Oct 24
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 17
For decades, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has been surrounded by confusion. Early studies and media headlines created a cloud of concern around heart health and cancer risk. But in the last few years, major clinical trials have provided a much clearer—and overwhelmingly reassuring—picture.
For men in Minneapolis, Edina, and across the Twin Cities struggling with the symptoms of low testosterone, it's time to separate fact from fiction. From surviving the long Minnesota winters with energy to spare to having the vitality to enjoy a walk around Lake of the Isles, optimizing your health is key. This guide breaks down the latest science to bust the biggest myths about TRT.
Key Takeaways
Heart Safety Confirmed: Recent major trials show TRT does not increase the risk of heart attack or stroke for most men.
Prostate Health: Medically supervised TRT does not cause or worsen prostate cancer in men with normal screening results.
Not 'Roid Rage': The aggression myth is linked to illegal steroid abuse, not to prescribed, monitored Testosterone Therapy.
Hair Loss Management: While TRT can accelerate pre-existing hair loss, there are proactive treatments to manage this risk.
It’s a Medical Treatment: TRT treats a diagnosed deficiency; it is not a "magic pill" and works best with a healthy lifestyle.
Myth #1: TRT Causes Heart Attacks
The Facts: No, this is the number one question men have, and we finally have a definitive answer.
Published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2023, the TRAVERSE trial was a large, randomized study designed specifically to assess the cardiovascular safety of TRT [1].
The primary finding was clear: TRT did not cause a significant increase in major adverse cardiac events (like heart attack or stroke). Based on this, the FDA updated testosterone product labels in early 2025 to reflect these findings, providing a new level of confidence in the cardiovascular safety of medically supervised TRT [2].
Myth #2: TRT Causes Prostate Cancer
The Facts: No, this is the second-most-common myth.
A 2024 meta-analysis reviewed 28 different randomized controlled trials and concluded that TRT did not cause any significant increase in PSA levels, prostate volume, or lower urinary tract symptoms [3]. The modern medical consensus is that TRT does not cause prostate cancer.
Myth #3: TRT Will Make Me Lose My Hair
The Fact: TRT does not cause male pattern baldness, but for men who are genetically predisposed to it, TRT can accelerate the process.
This happens because testosterone is converted to DHT, the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles in susceptible individuals [4]. At Medical Specialists of Minnesota, we take a proactive approach with solutions like Hair Loss DNA testing to assess your risk and PRP for Hair Loss to stimulate hair follicles if thinning is a concern.
Myth #4: TRT Causes 'Roid Rage' and Wrecks Your Cholesterol
The Facts: These myths are a result of confusing medical TRT with illicit steroid abuse.
Aggression: "Roid rage" is a documented psychiatric side effect of supraphysiologic (abnormally high) doses of anabolic steroids. A 2023 systematic review confirmed this link to supraphysiologic abuse, a condition entirely different from medical TRT, which is shown to improve mood in men with low T [5].
Cholesterol: Modern TRT (injections, creams) has a minimal to neutral effect on cholesterol profiles. This myth is a holdover from outdated oral pills. A 2024 review found that TRT does not adversely affect lipid profiles in the majority of men being treated for hypogonadism [6].
Myth #5: TRT is a Magic 'Fountain of Youth'
The Facts: TRT is a powerful medical therapy for treating a diagnosed deficiency (hypogonadism); it is not a magic bullet for aging and works best as part of a comprehensive health plan.
While it can restore youthful energy and strength in men with low testosterone, the best results are seen when TRT is combined with proper nutrition and exercise. The landmark T4DM trial, for example, showed TRT was most effective at preventing diabetes when used in conjunction with a lifestyle program [7].
Who is a Good Candidate for TRT in Minnesota?
Whether you're in Edina, Apple Valley, or anywhere in the Twin Cities, the diagnostic criteria are strict. A man is only a candidate if he has both:
Clinical Symptoms (fatigue, low libido, etc.).
Biochemical Confirmation (two separate, low morning testosterone tests).
Our expert providers will conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure TRT is a safe and appropriate choice for you.
The Bottom Line: A New Era of Confidence in TRT
Thanks to major new studies, the conversation around TRT has shifted from fear to facts. For the right patient under careful medical supervision, TRT is a safe and profoundly effective medical therapy.
The science is clear: the major fears about Testosterone Therapy—heart risk, prostate cancer, and ‘roid rage’—are now largely outdated myths. New research confirms that for the right patient, medically supervised TRT is a safe and effective treatment for hypogonadism. This therapy can restore energy, improve mood, and enhance physical strength, allowing you to fully enjoy life in Minnesota.
Remember, the best results come from combining TRT with a healthy, active lifestyle.
Do not let outdated myths hold you back from exploring a significant improvement in your quality of life.
Ready to find out if TRT is right for you?
Contact Medical Specialists of Edina today to schedule your comprehensive consultation.
Phone: (952) 225-5400 | information@medicalsp.net | 6550 York Ave S # 211
Edina, MN 55435
Frequently Asked Questions About Testosterone Therapy
What is the Long-Term Safety Profile of TRT?
Long-term safety, when therapy is medically monitored, is excellent. Monitoring helps our providers manage potential side effects like polycythemia (increased red blood cell count).
Does TRT Affect Fertility?
Yes, Testosterone Therapy can temporarily suppress sperm production and impact fertility. If you plan to have children in the near future, our physicians at Medical Specialists in Edina will discuss fertility-preserving options before beginning TRT.
When Should I Contact Medical Specialists, PA About Low T?
You should contact Medical Specialists, PA in Edina if you experience a combination of persistent fatigue, noticeably low libido, and unexplained weight or muscle changes that last longer than a month.
Early evaluation and diagnosis are critical for determining if Testosterone Therapy is right for you. Call our office at (952) 225-5400 to schedule your comprehensive consultation.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you're experiencing symptoms or have health concerns, contact Medical Specialists, PA in Edina at (952) 225-5400 or schedule an appointment online at www.medicalspecialistsmn.com.
Sources Cited:
Lincoff, A. M., et al. (2023). "Cardiovascular Safety of Testosterone-Replacement Therapy." New England Journal of Medicine, 389(2).
U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (2025). "FDA Drug Safety Communication: Updates to Testosterone Product Labeling." FDA.gov.
Zhu, Y., et al. (2024). "The effect of testosterone replacement therapy on prostate-related events: A systematic review and meta-analysis." Frontiers in Endocrinology, 15.
Nestor, M. S., et al. (2021). "The Pathophysiology of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review." Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 14(10).
He, K., & Zhou, Y. (2023). "Psychiatric and Behavioral Effects of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use: A Systematic Review." Current Psychiatry Reports, 25(8).