This is a variant of testosterone that is less easily converted into estrogen than plain testosterone, so it’s more widely prescribed.

The plusses of testosterone? It can help a lagging libido, minimize symptoms like hot flashes that haven’t been helped by regular HRT, and may increase bone growth. The negatives? Some studies have shown that testosterone may raise blood pressure, depending upon the ratio of testosterone to estrogen. There are other possible side effects with testosterone as well -- including acne, facial hair, weight gain, increased anger, and liver disease.

To avoid these possible side effects linked to testosterone, many doctors recommend starting with a low dosage of methyltestosterone -- taking a quarter or a half of a tablet and putting it under your tongue (the sublingual method of taking oral hormones). By taking it sub-lingually, you avoid your digestive tract, which minimizes its effect on your blood cholesterol and lipid levels. And by beginning with such a low dose, you cut down on your chances of acne, facial hair and other side effects. If this mini-dose doesn’t work, then your doctor may slowly up your dosage -- again, trying to keep it as low as possible while still gaining the benefits you’re after.