Low Testosterone – An Underdiagnosed Men’s Health Issue
by Jaydev Varsani – Clinical Prescribing Pharmacist
Many men in Harrow and across London live with symptoms of low testosterone without realising it. Testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS), also called male hypogonadism, is often overlooked.
Common symptoms include:
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Constant tiredness and low energy
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Loss of muscle mass, increase in body fat
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Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
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Low mood, irritability, and brain fog
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Reduced libido and erectile dysfunction
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Poor sleep and reduced motivation
Low testosterone doesn’t just affect quality of life. It’s also linked to type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and high cholesterol. Despite this, TRT remains underused and many men are simply told their symptoms are “just ageing.”
At Murrays Chemist in Harrow, we believe men deserve proper evaluation, evidence-based treatment, and ongoing care.
How We Diagnose Testosterone Deficiency
We don’t guess — we test. At our Harrow clinic:
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Consultation – we review your symptoms, history, and health goals.
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On-site blood tests – checking testosterone, red blood cells, cholesterol, liver and kidney function, and prostate markers.
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Follow-up review – clear explanation of your results and treatment options.
Everything is carried out face-to-face at our Harrow pharmacy — not through a faceless online portal.
Types of Testosterone Replacement
There are three main ways to replace testosterone:
Oral testosterone
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Pros: Easy to take.
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Cons: Rarely used in the UK, variable absorption, potential liver strain.
Topical testosterone (gels and creams)
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Pros: Daily use, no injections.
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Cons: Risk of transferring to others via skin contact, inconsistent absorption.
Injectable testosterone
The most effective and widely prescribed option. Injections provide reliable testosterone levels and long-lasting symptom relief.
Injectable Testosterone Options at Murrays Chemist Harrow
We specialise in injectable TRT and offer all the main preparations used in the UK.
Sustanon
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Dosing frequency: Every 2–3 weeks (sometimes shorter intervals for stability).
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Injection site: Intramuscular (IM), usually glute or thigh.
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Pros: Quick onset and broad availability.
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Cons: May cause peaks and troughs in symptoms.
Nebido (Testosterone Undecanoate)
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Dosing frequency: Every 10–12 weeks (after two initial loading injections).
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Injection site: Deep IM into the glute, given slowly.
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Pros: Very convenient — just four injections per year once stable.
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Cons: Large injection volume (4ml); side effects may take longer to resolve.
Testosterone Cypionate
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Dosing frequency: Weekly or fortnightly; some men prefer smaller twice-weekly doses.
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Injection site: IM (thigh or glute) or subcutaneous (SC, abdominal fat).
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Pros: Flexible dosing, steady hormone levels, popular among men who self-inject.
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Cons: Requires regular injections.
Testosterone Enanthate
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Dosing frequency: Weekly or fortnightly, sometimes twice weekly in smaller doses.
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Injection site: IM (thigh or glute) or SC.
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Pros: Reliable, well-studied, smooth symptom control.
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Cons: Regular injections required; availability in the UK can be variable.
Choosing the Right Injectable
The best injectable depends on:
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How often you are comfortable injecting
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Whether you want clinic-administered vs. self-administered treatment
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How stable you want your testosterone levels between doses
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Your lifestyle, convenience, and long-term goals
At Murrays Chemist, we guide you through these options to find the best fit.
How Injections Are Managed at Murrays Chemist
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On-site administration – many patients prefer our pharmacists to deliver their injections safely in clinic.
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Self-injection training – we teach safe technique for men using cypionate or enanthate at home.
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Injection techniques:
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IM injections – into the glute (buttock) or thigh.
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SC injections – into abdominal fat, often better tolerated with smaller, frequent doses.
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Regular blood monitoring – to keep treatment safe and adjust as needed.
Monitoring & Results
TRT isn’t just about raising testosterone — it’s about achieving the right balance safely.
At Murrays Chemist:
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Baseline and follow-up blood tests are included in the package.
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We track testosterone, red cells, cholesterol, prostate markers, and liver/kidney function.
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We review symptoms and quality of life at every visit.
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Results – most men notice clear improvements in energy, mood, and libido within 3 months.
Why Choose Murrays Chemist for TRT in Harrow?
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All-inclusive service – consultations, blood tests, and prescriptions included.
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Face-to-face care – everything done on site, not online.
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Experienced prescribing pharmacists – trained in men’s health and hormone management.
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Convenient location – based in Harrow, serving North West London and surrounding areas.
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Transparent pricing – no hidden fees, unlike many online TRT providers.
FAQs About TRT
Is TRT safe?
Yes, when monitored properly with blood tests and reviews. Risks are managed through careful dose adjustment and regular checks.
Can TRT help me lose weight?
Yes. By restoring testosterone, many men find it easier to build muscle, reduce fat, and improve metabolic health.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with our Harrow TRT clinic.
How long will I need TRT?
TRT is usually long-term, but treatment is tailored and reviewed regularly.
Final Word – Take Back Control of Your Health
If you’re struggling with fatigue, weight gain, low mood, or reduced libido, don’t just accept it as part of ageing. Low testosterone is common, underdiagnosed, and treatable.
At Murrays Chemist in Harrow, our pharmacist-led TRT clinic offers:
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Safe and professional care
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Comprehensive monitoring
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Convenient on-site treatment
Book your testosterone replacement consultation today and start your journey back to strength, energy, and wellbeing.
