For men with low testosterone (low T), symptoms like erectile dysfunction (ED), low libido, and fatigue can significantly impact quality of life. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) has long been used to treat these symptoms, but concerns about heart risks have made some men hesitant. Now, the groundbreaking TRAVERSE study—the largest clinical trial ever conducted on TRT—provides clear answers about both safety and effectiveness, particularly for men with ED.
What Is the TRAVERSE Study?
The Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Assessment of Long-term Vascular Events and Efficacy Response in Hypogonadal Men (TRAVERSE) study was a major clinical trial designed to answer two critical questions:
- Does TRT increase heart risks in men with low testosterone?
- How effective is TRT for improving sexual function, including ED?
The study followed over 5,000 men with low testosterone and either pre-existing heart disease or high cardiovascular risk for an average of 3.6 years. Half received TRT (testosterone gel), while the other half received a placebo.
Key Findings: TRT Safety & ED Improvement
TRT Does NOT Increase Heart Risks
- No higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular death compared to placebo.
- This confirms that TRT is safe even for men with heart disease risk factors.
TRT Significantly Improves Erectile Function
- Men on TRT reported better erections, stronger libido, and higher sexual satisfaction.
- While not a “cure” for all ED cases, it helps when low testosterone is a contributing factor.
Other Benefits of TRT
- Reduced fatigue
- Improved mood
- Increased muscle mass
- Better bone density
Who Should Consider TRT for ED?
TRT may help if:
You have low testosterone symptoms (low sex drive, fatigue, ED).
Blood tests confirm low T levels.
Your ED doesn’t fully respond to pills like Viagra.
TRT is less likely to help if:
ED is caused only by nerve damage or severe vascular disease.
Testosterone levels are already normal.
How TRT Improves Erectile Function
Testosterone plays a key role in sexual health by:
Boosting nitric oxide production (essential for erections).
Enhancing blood flow to the penis.
Increasing sexual desire, which aids arousal.
In the TRAVERSE study, men on TRT saw measurable improvements in erection quality, confirming that fixing low T can directly help ED.
Reference link here: https://legerclinic.co.uk/blogs/news/testosterone-replacement-therapy-and-erectile-dysfunction-the-traverse-study
Is TRT Right for You? What to Discuss with Your Doctor
Before starting TRT, consider:
- Heart health – TRAVERSE confirms safety, but individual risks vary.
- Prostate monitoring – TRT doesn’t cause cancer but can accelerate existing prostate issues.
- Delivery method – Gels, injections, and patches are common options.
- Side effects – Possible acne, increased red blood cells, or reduced fertility.
The Bottom Line
The TRAVERSE study is a game-changer, proving that:
- TRT is heart-safe, even for high-risk men.
- It effectively improves ED when low testosterone is a factor.
If you’re struggling with low T symptoms and ED, TRT could be a viable option. Talk to a hormone specialist to see if it’s right for you.
Keywords: Testosterone replacement therapy, TRT and ED, TRAVERSE study, low testosterone treatment, erectile dysfunction cure, testosterone therapy safety.
