Testosterone therapy’s popular in the online ‘manosphere’ — but doctor warns it’s not for everyone – CBC
Mar 11, 2025
Derek Illman of London, Ont., is a fitness fanatic and a self-proclaimed “podcast junkie.”
Through conversations at the gym and while listening to podcasters, the 55-year-old learned about testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and its potential in boosting energy and strength.
“I thought, ‘If TRT can help me get some minor improvements in performance at the gym, will that translate to longevity?'” said Illman.
“It makes sense to me in my non-medical mind that improved performance at the gym should translate potentially into a healthier day-to-day feeling or ideally, better aging.”
Illman said his gym friend told him it was easy to purchase TRT online, but Illman wanted to go through a trusted family doctor instead. After being assessed, he started on a low dose of TRT gel in December to improve low testosterone.
But while Illman was prescribed the therapy, a London urologist says some men are taking it without meeting the criteria, which can come with risks.
