Low Testosterone: What are the options? UPDATE:Testosterone megathread (Page 425 of 443)
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Originally Posted By D_J: Hey guys, I've been off test-C for about 3 years because my BP & hematocrit were consistently too high (even with therapeutic phlebotomy). I got on a low dose valsartin and got BP under control, but without the test my energy was low, motivation was low, and I was getting injured more easily and frequently working out so I mostly stopped and weight creeped up. Tried ozempic to control appetite but after a month or two of good results it failed to work for the next 6+ regardless of dose so I stopped. PCP was able to get me on zepbound and it has worked well. I generally eat one meal/day plus a fairlife protein shake for lunch and drink 4-5 bottles of water a day with advanced hydration mix (without it, I will forget to drink and was only getting 10-30 oz/day). The results have been steady weight loss. I've restarted exercise and walk for an hour every morning, usually within an hour of waking. I'd like to restart weights because I can tell I've not only lost muscle, but I've lost the flexibility and strength that comes from a full body workout. I turn 56 in a couple of weeks and really feel my age (or older) quite a bit. I worked with Defy Medical before and was successful with them (after giving up on a local clinic who prescribed cookie-cutter program). Are they still one of the recommended go-to places? They're going to want a physical exam plus the usual panels, but my physical isn't until January and I'd like to take advantage of extra free time over the holidays. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/174335/IMG_6012-3647454.jpg Other than cost vs going through insurance Defy is highly regarded. And compared to other cash pay telemedicine options they are not unreasonable. They will except a physical from a doc in the box so you can fit that into even a busy schedule. |
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Originally Posted By JThompson: I didn't think I would ever pay a Dr $60 a month to be their patient, but guess what, it may be worth it for some. In the beginning it was well worth it with constant e-mails going back and forth and simply stating "lets do a phone call" would be scheduled within a week or two and phone calls were lasting 30-60 minutes. Things are stabilized so now meeting every 3 months. Phone calls are shorter now but she still allocates 60 minutes. Prescriptions for just about anything are sent to the pharmacy by sending an e-mail making a request. The virtual visits alone are well worth it. Originally Posted By JThompson: Originally Posted By 20229mm: https://mapper.dpcfrontier.com/ Mine charges $60/month. I get an appointment within a day or two (compared to 5 weeks from my prior doc) I get meds cheap and typically whatever I want that is reasonable (I got 6 doxycycline for tick treatment by telling my doc that I hunt and camp and worry about Lyme disease. For $2.30) And I get a half hour appointment vs five minutes. Labs that I want. Scans that I want. Not a bad setup. I didn't think I would ever pay a Dr $60 a month to be their patient, but guess what, it may be worth it for some. In the beginning it was well worth it with constant e-mails going back and forth and simply stating "lets do a phone call" would be scheduled within a week or two and phone calls were lasting 30-60 minutes. Things are stabilized so now meeting every 3 months. Phone calls are shorter now but she still allocates 60 minutes. Prescriptions for just about anything are sent to the pharmacy by sending an e-mail making a request. The virtual visits alone are well worth it. |
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Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Pick telehealth place so that you aren't having to walk in to an expensive clinic for shots (Defy, Hormones for me, PeterMD, ECT). Ignore dosage instructions if they're not frequent enough for your liking (but most places are cool with or encourage 2x week + injections now days). Ask for prescription to be raised if your dosage isn't getting you to the levels you want. Don't ask for prescription to be lowered if your levels or fine or if you need less, because then you can end up with a buffer stash which is great (like buying ammo before a panic). Done. Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By D_J: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By D_J: Hey guys, I've been off test-C for about 3 years because my BP & hematocrit were consistently too high (even with therapeutic phlebotomy). I got on a low dose valsartin and got BP under control, but without the test my energy was low, motivation was low, and I was getting injured more easily and frequently working out so I mostly stopped and weight creeped up. Tried ozempic to control appetite but after a month or two of good results it failed to work for the next 6+ regardless of dose so I stopped. PCP was able to get me on zepbound and it has worked well. I generally eat one meal/day plus a fairlife protein shake for lunch and drink 4-5 bottles of water a day with advanced hydration mix (without it, I will forget to drink and was only getting 10-30 oz/day). The results have been steady weight loss. I've restarted exercise and walk for an hour every morning, usually within an hour of waking. I'd like to restart weights because I can tell I've not only lost muscle, but I've lost the flexibility and strength that comes from a full body workout. I turn 56 in a couple of weeks and really feel my age (or older) quite a bit. I worked with Defy Medical before and was successful with them (after giving up on a local clinic who prescribed cookie-cutter program). Are they still one of the recommended go-to places? They're going to want a physical exam plus the usual panels, but my physical isn't until January and I'd like to take advantage of extra free time over the holidays. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/174335/IMG_6012-3647454.jpg I don't think hematocrit went much above 52-53, but that's past the end of the Labcorp scale. Sounds like, from skimming the thread recently, that's not considered a real issue these days. BP was averaging 130-133/85-90 on good days, had readings of 140+/100+ more than a couple of time; 122/78 Friday. I'm not sure exactly what you mean by guidance, but I do want someone who help me get to the right levels (600-700 felt fine for me, don't need to be 1000+) with a multi-day/week schedule. I don't want the peaks and valleys of once/week. I looked around locally and there are more clinics than 5-6 years ago when I started, but I don't want someone who requires me to come in for weekly or monthly visits, I just want someone who can prescribe the meds, handle my labs and help me adjust dose as needed so mail order was a better fit last time. Just looking for some recommendations.  I'm going to give Defy a call, but I'll take a look at the others. Originally Posted By Gidon: Other than cost vs going through insurance Defy is highly regarded. And compared to other cash pay telemedicine options they are not unreasonable. They will except a physical from a doc in the box so you can fit that into even a busy schedule. Thanks |
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Where are you guys buying spare pins at? Ive got what came with my script, but Id like to have spares to be safe |
"Makes me realize why there are warning labels on hemorrhoid cream about not using it orally" - Weomi
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Originally Posted By StarCityShooter: Where are you guys buying spare pins at? Ive got what came with my script, but Id like to have spares to be safe https://www.medical-and-lab-supplies.com/ |
"You got to lick it, before you stick it."©
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
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What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
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Originally Posted By TheRealSundance: amazon https://www.medical-and-lab-supplies.com/ Thanks! Amazon never crossed my mind for some reason 
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"Makes me realize why there are warning labels on hemorrhoid cream about not using it orally" - Weomi
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Originally Posted By djkest: Hey guys, I hope this question isn't stupid so here goes. Is it possible that TRT and the increased testosterone levels could increase the risk of stroke? My Hematocrit levels are high and I've been donating blood but not as often as I would like, my Dr. doesn't want to write a note so that I can donate blood more often because they aren't prescribing the TRT. I've been having some weird symptoms lately once of which is temporary vision degradation - which while it doesn't sound bad is pretty scary. It could just be eye strain. I also developed gout a few months after starting TRT and have been having problems with arthritis. I am 43 years old. here is a dr who runs a trt clinic says. Those have nothing to do with T. It's amazing how everything after people start taking testosterone they think is caused by the testosterone and doctors who aren't trained in t replacement think that too. Attached File |
"You got to lick it, before you stick it."©
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
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I have some catching up to do, but after a about two years of referrals, tests, educating myself and my PCP I have my first round of TRT on the way. I'm planning on consolidating all my info for a more comprehensive post, but for now here's my prescription: Anastrozole 1 mg tab PO weekly Testosterone cypionate/propionate 160 / 40 0.6 mL IM weekly My most recent bloodwork showed a total test level of 392 ng/dL, a bioavailable test of 101 ng/dL, and free test of 50 pg/dL. I'm 41, 6'2", 260#. Oh, wise manly men of the Arfcom TRT council - does this sound like a reasonable plan to you for a starting dose to you? One of the things I'm hoping to get from this is the motivation and endurance to be able to work out more regularly. I got a personal trainer last week and have begun lifting. I'm not trying to be a body builder here, and have no specific "aesthetic" goals in mind - I just want to feel better and be healthier in general. I'm really hoping that the combination of exercise, test, and an AI will help me finally lose the (substantial) remainder of this adipose tissue that I'm sure is causing a ton of issues via aromatization. |
"The state is not the solution. It is the problem." --Javier Milei
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
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Been following this thread on and off for a few years. Figured I'd jump in with my scenario and ask for feedback. Currently:
While I've been able to lose weight over the past year, which has helped me feel a little better, it's been a pretty big challenge to drop the fat. I am fairly active outside of work but I do drive a desk for a living. Through my personal projects and in the gym I've been getting joint injuries more often and have noticed I'm much slower to heal. My shoulder injury from June is plateaued at about 80% recovery despite months of PT. My PT is very good and she's recommended TRT to help with recovery and some of my other symptoms (energy & motivation, brain fog, extremely slow progress in the gym, etc.) but was primarily focused on the joint recovery. To put a number on gym progress, it usually takes me 4-8wks of working out 3 days per week to move up one increment on the weight stack and some exercises have hit a plateau well below what I could lift 2 or 3 years ago before I took a 6 month injury break from the gym (and ballooned up to 223). Her husband goes to a wellness clinic locally that charges $130/mo for TRT and $200 upfront for initial labs. They apparently are comprehensive about hormone optimization, not just a testosterone mill and the NP that runs it is on the ball about making sure things are dialed across the board according to her. I called the clinic and asked about the initial labs and they are going to check the following: CBC Metabolic Panel Lipid Panel Thyroid PSA B-3 B-12 Free and Total T FSH LH SHBG Supposedly they set up patients to do injections twice per week and check labs every 8 weeks for $50 on top of the $130/mo for the treatment and appointments. What say ye all? Worth pursuing? Overpriced? Red flags? |
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Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: I have some catching up to do, but after a about two years of referrals, tests, educating myself and my PCP I have my first round of TRT on the way. I'm planning on consolidating all my info for a more comprehensive post, but for now here's my prescription: I immediately challenged the once-weekly administration for the test, and confirmed that splitting it into whatever schedule seems to work best for me won't hurt anything from his perspective. I'm certainly planning on injecting at least twice per week, but haven't yet decided if I want to start on that schedule or go the full 0.6mL the first time and see how it goes. My most recent bloodwork showed a total test level of 392 ng/dL, a bioavailable test of 101 ng/dL, and free test of 50 pg/dL. I'm 41, 6'2", 260#. Oh, wise manly men of the Arfcom TRT council - does this sound like a reasonable plan to you for a starting dose to you? One of the things I'm hoping to get from this is the motivation and endurance to be able to work out more regularly. I got a personal trainer last week and have begun lifting. I'm not trying to be a body builder here, and have no specific "aesthetic" goals in mind - I just want to feel better and be healthier in general. I'm really hoping that the combination of exercise, test, and an AI will help me finally lose the (substantial) remainder of this adipose tissue that I'm sure is causing a ton of issues via aromatization. Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: I have some catching up to do, but after a about two years of referrals, tests, educating myself and my PCP I have my first round of TRT on the way. I'm planning on consolidating all my info for a more comprehensive post, but for now here's my prescription: Anastrozole 1 mg tab PO weekly Testosterone cypionate/propionate 160 / 40 0.6 mL IM weekly My most recent bloodwork showed a total test level of 392 ng/dL, a bioavailable test of 101 ng/dL, and free test of 50 pg/dL. I'm 41, 6'2", 260#. Oh, wise manly men of the Arfcom TRT council - does this sound like a reasonable plan to you for a starting dose to you? One of the things I'm hoping to get from this is the motivation and endurance to be able to work out more regularly. I got a personal trainer last week and have begun lifting. I'm not trying to be a body builder here, and have no specific "aesthetic" goals in mind - I just want to feel better and be healthier in general. I'm really hoping that the combination of exercise, test, and an AI will help me finally lose the (substantial) remainder of this adipose tissue that I'm sure is causing a ton of issues via aromatization. However - don't dose an AI before seeing if you need one. You don't want to crash your estrogen. Wait 4-6 weeks, check bloods, then add in if needed. 1mg in a single administration is way too much unless you're sky high and need to get it down fast. I quarter the 1mg pills with a splitter. Finally, testosterone and AI are not fat loss agents. Test is... anabolic. Better test levels can help improve energy, gym performance, and recovery which can assist fat loss. As you've pointed out, your body fat may be problematic with aromatization. You can consider a low dose GLP if you find you're not making the progress there you want. If you're using an AI, make sure you check estrogen levels as your body fat drops and reduce AI dose if needed. And finally, with your goals, your body fat %, and potential current aromatization causing hormone imbalance as mentioned....if you want to just work on dropping fat (potentially with a GLP), you may find your natural testosterone recovers. So if you don't want to go down this road of having to inject testosterone, you still have a lever to pull, which is fat loss. Most people with excess fat and obesity present as low T but there is no underlying hypogonadal issue. I see you're 41. If there's any chance you may want more kids, that's the road I'd take first. |
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Originally Posted By Turok: Been following this thread on and off for a few years. Figured I'd jump in with my scenario and ask for feedback. Currently:
While I've been able to lose weight over the past year, which has helped me feel a little better, it's been a pretty big challenge to drop the fat. I am fairly active outside of work but I do drive a desk for a living. Through my personal projects and in the gym I've been getting joint injuries more often and have noticed I'm much slower to heal. My shoulder injury from June is plateaued at about 80% recovery despite months of PT. My PT is very good and she's recommended TRT to help with recovery and some of my other symptoms (energy & motivation, brain fog, extremely slow progress in the gym, etc.) but was primarily focused on the joint recovery. To put a number on gym progress, it usually takes me 4-8wks of working out 3 days per week to move up one increment on the weight stack and some exercises have hit a plateau well below what I could lift 2 or 3 years ago before I took a 6 month injury break from the gym (and ballooned up to 223). Her husband goes to a wellness clinic locally that charges $130/mo for TRT and $200 upfront for initial labs. They apparently are comprehensive about hormone optimization, not just a testosterone mill and the NP that runs it is on the ball about making sure things are dialed across the board according to her. I called the clinic and asked about the initial labs and they are going to check the following: CBC Metabolic Panel Lipid Panel Thyroid PSA B-3 B-12 Free and Total T FSH LH SHBG Supposedly they set up patients to do injections twice per week and check labs every 8 weeks for $50 on top of the $130/mo for the treatment and appointments. What say ye all? Worth pursuing? Overpriced? Red flags? I don't see DHT on that labs list, but if they can run it cheaply is a good marker to keep track of if you have hair loss concerns. |
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Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: I have some catching up to do, but after a about two years of referrals, tests, educating myself and my PCP I have my first round of TRT on the way. I'm planning on consolidating all my info for a more comprehensive post, but for now here's my prescription: I immediately challenged the once-weekly administration for the test, and confirmed that splitting it into whatever schedule seems to work best for me won't hurt anything from his perspective. I'm certainly planning on injecting at least twice per week, but haven't yet decided if I want to start on that schedule or go the full 0.6mL the first time and see how it goes. My most recent bloodwork showed a total test level of 392 ng/dL, a bioavailable test of 101 ng/dL, and free test of 50 pg/dL. I'm 41, 6'2", 260#. Oh, wise manly men of the Arfcom TRT council - does this sound like a reasonable plan to you for a starting dose to you? One of the things I'm hoping to get from this is the motivation and endurance to be able to work out more regularly. I got a personal trainer last week and have begun lifting. I'm not trying to be a body builder here, and have no specific "aesthetic" goals in mind - I just want to feel better and be healthier in general. I'm really hoping that the combination of exercise, test, and an AI will help me finally lose the (substantial) remainder of this adipose tissue that I'm sure is causing a ton of issues via aromatization. Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: I have some catching up to do, but after a about two years of referrals, tests, educating myself and my PCP I have my first round of TRT on the way. I'm planning on consolidating all my info for a more comprehensive post, but for now here's my prescription: Anastrozole 1 mg tab PO weekly Testosterone cypionate/propionate 160 / 40 0.6 mL IM weekly My most recent bloodwork showed a total test level of 392 ng/dL, a bioavailable test of 101 ng/dL, and free test of 50 pg/dL. I'm 41, 6'2", 260#. Oh, wise manly men of the Arfcom TRT council - does this sound like a reasonable plan to you for a starting dose to you? One of the things I'm hoping to get from this is the motivation and endurance to be able to work out more regularly. I got a personal trainer last week and have begun lifting. I'm not trying to be a body builder here, and have no specific "aesthetic" goals in mind - I just want to feel better and be healthier in general. I'm really hoping that the combination of exercise, test, and an AI will help me finally lose the (substantial) remainder of this adipose tissue that I'm sure is causing a ton of issues via aromatization. never seen that mix avalible in the US. |
"You got to lick it, before you stick it."©
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
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Originally Posted By TheRealSundance: You need to be doing at least eod injection schedule with the test prop mixed in. never seen that mix avalible in the US. Originally Posted By TheRealSundance: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: I have some catching up to do, but after a about two years of referrals, tests, educating myself and my PCP I have my first round of TRT on the way. I'm planning on consolidating all my info for a more comprehensive post, but for now here's my prescription: Anastrozole 1 mg tab PO weekly Testosterone cypionate/propionate 160 / 40 0.6 mL IM weekly My most recent bloodwork showed a total test level of 392 ng/dL, a bioavailable test of 101 ng/dL, and free test of 50 pg/dL. I'm 41, 6'2", 260#. Oh, wise manly men of the Arfcom TRT council - does this sound like a reasonable plan to you for a starting dose to you? One of the things I'm hoping to get from this is the motivation and endurance to be able to work out more regularly. I got a personal trainer last week and have begun lifting. I'm not trying to be a body builder here, and have no specific "aesthetic" goals in mind - I just want to feel better and be healthier in general. I'm really hoping that the combination of exercise, test, and an AI will help me finally lose the (substantial) remainder of this adipose tissue that I'm sure is causing a ton of issues via aromatization. never seen that mix avalible in the US. ETA: USA has C, E, Undecanoate (oral), and TNE (pellet and nasal). ETA: I take that back, prop is still available through compounding. Doesn't make any sense tho for OP. https://www.empowerpharmacy.com/compound-medication/mens-health/testosterone-ester-combinations/#:~:text=Testosterone%20Ester%20Combinations%20Current%20FDA%2Dapproved%20testosterone%20products,testosterone%20cypionate%2C%20testosterone%20enanthate%2C%20and%20testosterone%20undecanoate. |
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Originally Posted By HappyCamel: You can do the full .6ml the first week of you just want to try to get your levels up faster then go to 2x week administration moving forward. Breaking up your dosing does make sense due to your body fat. However - don't dose an AI before seeing if you need one. You don't want to crash your estrogen. Wait 4-6 weeks, check bloods, then add in if needed. 1mg in a single administration is way too much unless you're sky high and need to get it down fast. I quarter the 1mg pills with a splitter. Finally, testosterone and AI are not fat loss agents. Test is... anabolic. Better test levels can help improve energy, gym performance, and recovery which can assist fat loss. As you've pointed out, your body fat may be problematic with aromatization. You can consider a low dose GLP if you find you're not making the progress there you want. If you're using an AI, make sure you check estrogen levels as your body fat drops and reduce AI dose if needed. And finally, with your goals, your body fat %, and potential current aromatization causing hormone imbalance as mentioned....if you want to just work on dropping fat (potentially with a GLP), you may find your natural testosterone recovers. So if you don't want to go down this road of having to inject testosterone, you still have a lever to pull, which is fat loss. Most people with excess fat and obesity present as low T but there is no underlying hypogonadal issue. I see you're 41. If there's any chance you may want more kids, that's the road I'd take first. Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: I have some catching up to do, but after a about two years of referrals, tests, educating myself and my PCP I have my first round of TRT on the way. I'm planning on consolidating all my info for a more comprehensive post, but for now here's my prescription: Anastrozole 1 mg tab PO weekly Testosterone cypionate/propionate 160 / 40 0.6 mL IM weekly My most recent bloodwork showed a total test level of 392 ng/dL, a bioavailable test of 101 ng/dL, and free test of 50 pg/dL. I'm 41, 6'2", 260#. Oh, wise manly men of the Arfcom TRT council - does this sound like a reasonable plan to you for a starting dose to you? One of the things I'm hoping to get from this is the motivation and endurance to be able to work out more regularly. I got a personal trainer last week and have begun lifting. I'm not trying to be a body builder here, and have no specific "aesthetic" goals in mind - I just want to feel better and be healthier in general. I'm really hoping that the combination of exercise, test, and an AI will help me finally lose the (substantial) remainder of this adipose tissue that I'm sure is causing a ton of issues via aromatization. However - don't dose an AI before seeing if you need one. You don't want to crash your estrogen. Wait 4-6 weeks, check bloods, then add in if needed. 1mg in a single administration is way too much unless you're sky high and need to get it down fast. I quarter the 1mg pills with a splitter. Finally, testosterone and AI are not fat loss agents. Test is... anabolic. Better test levels can help improve energy, gym performance, and recovery which can assist fat loss. As you've pointed out, your body fat may be problematic with aromatization. You can consider a low dose GLP if you find you're not making the progress there you want. If you're using an AI, make sure you check estrogen levels as your body fat drops and reduce AI dose if needed. And finally, with your goals, your body fat %, and potential current aromatization causing hormone imbalance as mentioned....if you want to just work on dropping fat (potentially with a GLP), you may find your natural testosterone recovers. So if you don't want to go down this road of having to inject testosterone, you still have a lever to pull, which is fat loss. Most people with excess fat and obesity present as low T but there is no underlying hypogonadal issue. I see you're 41. If there's any chance you may want more kids, that's the road I'd take first. I believe my estrogen levels have been fairly high historically, which I assume is because of the excess adipose tissue. I strongly considered trying an Al alone, but my energy/motivation/drive - my "mojo" - has fallen so dramatically over the past few months that even with full context of the potential adverse effects, I cannot continue to try to understand with 100% certainty. If it turns out that my natural test production was sufficient and there was another root cause, dealing with TRT for the rest of my life unnecessarily is still preferable to not acting, even if there's a chance that's the issue. As for kids - I have a wife, two daughters, nine pigs, six cats, two chickens, and a rabbit in my house right now. My youngest is 12. There's no way in hell I'm hitting the reset button on that countdown timer! I've been interested in getting a vasectomy for about a decade now; the only reason I haven't is because my wife prefers an IUD regardless of contraception, so it hasn't been an issue. If you could, one thing would be very helpful for me right now: can you outline what "crashing my estrogen" would look like, and the implications? I'm going to do more research before I take the AI, but that would be a huge help. |
"The state is not the solution. It is the problem." --Javier Milei
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
|
My TRT protocol includes HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and I just went to get a refill (I go through about 10ml every 2-3 months) and my pharmacy said it's become near-unobtainium, they get can 1ml and not 10ml, but the price is about 6-7X (from $300 for 10ml to over $200 for 1ml.) Anyone else experiencing similar or know a source? I really don't want to drop this part of my protocol. |
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Originally Posted By seek2: My TRT protocol includes HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and I just went to get a refill (I go through about 10ml every 2-3 months) and my pharmacy said it's become near-unobtainium, they get can 1ml and not 10ml, but the price is about 6-7X (from $300 for 10ml to over $200 for 1ml.) Anyone else experiencing similar or know a source? I really don't want to drop this part of my protocol. I had similar issues. I went to the grey market. |
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Whelp - first injection down. Here's hoping it has a positive impact. Doing it myself based on YouTube videos for site location and experience injecting livestock was kinda trippy. I will say this: if you're scared of the injections themselves, you can rest easy. I hate getting blood drawn, and always involuntarily jump when the need is inserted. Until the last five years or so, I'd be at risk of hyperventilating while waiting for the draw to be completed. I just injected 0.6mL into my outer thigh (vastus lateralis) with a 1" 25ga needle. I was nervous with it being my first time and all, and inserted it slower than I likely will in the future to make sure I went in straight. Steady pressure on the plunger is enough, and once it was in it was like a weight lifted - it didn't hurt at all, so I was able to slowly and intentionally empty the syringe and pull it back out. Even though I've only done it once, I'm confident I won't have problems with it going forward. |
"The state is not the solution. It is the problem." --Javier Milei
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
|
Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Whelp - first injection down. Here's hoping it has a positive impact. Doing it myself based on YouTube videos for site location and experience injecting livestock was kinda trippy. I will say this: if you're scared of the injections themselves, you can rest easy. I hate getting blood drawn, and always involuntarily jump when the need is inserted. Until the last five years or so, I'd be at risk of hyperventilating while waiting for the draw to be completed. I just injected 0.6mL into my outer thigh (vastus lateralis) with a 1" 25ga needle. I was nervous with it being my first time and all, and inserted it slower than I likely will in the future to make sure I went in straight. Steady pressure on the plunger is enough, and once it was in it was like a weight lifted - it didn't hurt at all, so I was able to slowly and intentionally empty the syringe and pull it back out. Even though I've only done it once, I'm confident I won't have problems with it going forward. As far as what crashing your estrogen would be like, lethargy, anxiety, depression, achey no libido. If your estrogen is too high, symptoms would be irritability, emotional, watery, horny but dick doesn't work great. I would really recommend holding off on using the AI until you see where your estrogen ends up after a few weeks. And doing minimum of 2x shots a week. Also, you don't need to use a 25g needle. You can use a 29g. Use the 25g or larger if you have to draw, then screw on a 29g to inject. A 1cc syringe will be easier to push (more hydraulic force) than a 3cc syringe. And you can throw your vial on a coffee cup warmer ($10 on Amazon) for a minute to warm the oil if it's still too hard. There are zero downsides to finer needles besides time and sometimes effort. Less scar tissue is always a win ETA: and if/when you add the AI, break that pill up as I mentioned. Don't let the dust get on/around your kids. |
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Originally Posted By HappyCamel: I'm sorry I did not get back to you sooner. It's possible you could have raised your T by lowering the estrogen through DIM and Calcium D-glucarate. And if that didn't work, very small AI dosages. As far as what crashing your estrogen would be like, lethargy, anxiety, depression, achey no libido. If your estrogen is too high, symptoms would be irritability, emotional, watery, horny but dick doesn't work great. I would really recommend holding off on using the AI until you see where your estrogen ends up after a few weeks. And doing minimum of 2x shots a week. Also, you don't need to use a 25g needle. You can use a 29g. Use the 25g or larger if you have to draw, then screw on a 29g to inject. A 1cc syringe will be easier to push (more hydraulic force) than a 3cc syringe. And you can throw your vial on a coffee cup warmer ($10 on Amazon) for a minute to warm the oil if it's still too hard. There are zero downsides to finer needles besides time and sometimes effort. Less scar tissue is always a win ETA: and if/when you add the AI, break that pill up as I mentioned. Don't let the dust get on/around your kids. Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Whelp - first injection down. Here's hoping it has a positive impact. Doing it myself based on YouTube videos for site location and experience injecting livestock was kinda trippy. I will say this: if you're scared of the injections themselves, you can rest easy. I hate getting blood drawn, and always involuntarily jump when the need is inserted. Until the last five years or so, I'd be at risk of hyperventilating while waiting for the draw to be completed. I just injected 0.6mL into my outer thigh (vastus lateralis) with a 1" 25ga needle. I was nervous with it being my first time and all, and inserted it slower than I likely will in the future to make sure I went in straight. Steady pressure on the plunger is enough, and once it was in it was like a weight lifted - it didn't hurt at all, so I was able to slowly and intentionally empty the syringe and pull it back out. Even though I've only done it once, I'm confident I won't have problems with it going forward. As far as what crashing your estrogen would be like, lethargy, anxiety, depression, achey no libido. If your estrogen is too high, symptoms would be irritability, emotional, watery, horny but dick doesn't work great. I would really recommend holding off on using the AI until you see where your estrogen ends up after a few weeks. And doing minimum of 2x shots a week. Also, you don't need to use a 25g needle. You can use a 29g. Use the 25g or larger if you have to draw, then screw on a 29g to inject. A 1cc syringe will be easier to push (more hydraulic force) than a 3cc syringe. And you can throw your vial on a coffee cup warmer ($10 on Amazon) for a minute to warm the oil if it's still too hard. There are zero downsides to finer needles besides time and sometimes effort. Less scar tissue is always a win ETA: and if/when you add the AI, break that pill up as I mentioned. Don't let the dust get on/around your kids. Your response mirrors what I was expecting. I'm going to fill the AI prescription today, but will wait a couple of weeks to decide if I want to take it. I'll pick up some smaller sharps when I get a chance. |
"The state is not the solution. It is the problem." --Javier Milei
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
|
Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: No worries, I'm not relying solely on this thread for guidance; I just know there are a lot of us in here that have deep experience. If my own journey here is indicative of the process - it's been three years since I started trying to figure this out - then we kinda have to be knowledgeable. Your response mirrors what I was expecting. I'm going to fill the AI prescription today, but will wait a couple of weeks to decide if I want to take it. I'll pick up some smaller sharps when I get a chance. Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Whelp - first injection down. Here's hoping it has a positive impact. Doing it myself based on YouTube videos for site location and experience injecting livestock was kinda trippy. I will say this: if you're scared of the injections themselves, you can rest easy. I hate getting blood drawn, and always involuntarily jump when the need is inserted. Until the last five years or so, I'd be at risk of hyperventilating while waiting for the draw to be completed. I just injected 0.6mL into my outer thigh (vastus lateralis) with a 1" 25ga needle. I was nervous with it being my first time and all, and inserted it slower than I likely will in the future to make sure I went in straight. Steady pressure on the plunger is enough, and once it was in it was like a weight lifted - it didn't hurt at all, so I was able to slowly and intentionally empty the syringe and pull it back out. Even though I've only done it once, I'm confident I won't have problems with it going forward. As far as what crashing your estrogen would be like, lethargy, anxiety, depression, achey no libido. If your estrogen is too high, symptoms would be irritability, emotional, watery, horny but dick doesn't work great. I would really recommend holding off on using the AI until you see where your estrogen ends up after a few weeks. And doing minimum of 2x shots a week. Also, you don't need to use a 25g needle. You can use a 29g. Use the 25g or larger if you have to draw, then screw on a 29g to inject. A 1cc syringe will be easier to push (more hydraulic force) than a 3cc syringe. And you can throw your vial on a coffee cup warmer ($10 on Amazon) for a minute to warm the oil if it's still too hard. There are zero downsides to finer needles besides time and sometimes effort. Less scar tissue is always a win ETA: and if/when you add the AI, break that pill up as I mentioned. Don't let the dust get on/around your kids. Your response mirrors what I was expecting. I'm going to fill the AI prescription today, but will wait a couple of weeks to decide if I want to take it. I'll pick up some smaller sharps when I get a chance. I also like the vastus lateralis but a lot of people have difficulty with their quads. I didn't try mine until about a year in. |
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Originally Posted By HappyCamel: It's not deciding if you want to take it. You take it if blood levels justify. Just like you wouldn't go on TRT if your levels were 800-1200. AIs aren't the devil, they're useful, but taking them automatically as part of a cookie cutter protocol is nonsense which is what many places do now days. I also like the vastus lateralis but a lot of people have difficulty with their quads. I didn't try mine until about a year in. Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Whelp - first injection down. Here's hoping it has a positive impact. Doing it myself based on YouTube videos for site location and experience injecting livestock was kinda trippy. I will say this: if you're scared of the injections themselves, you can rest easy. I hate getting blood drawn, and always involuntarily jump when the need is inserted. Until the last five years or so, I'd be at risk of hyperventilating while waiting for the draw to be completed. I just injected 0.6mL into my outer thigh (vastus lateralis) with a 1" 25ga needle. I was nervous with it being my first time and all, and inserted it slower than I likely will in the future to make sure I went in straight. Steady pressure on the plunger is enough, and once it was in it was like a weight lifted - it didn't hurt at all, so I was able to slowly and intentionally empty the syringe and pull it back out. Even though I've only done it once, I'm confident I won't have problems with it going forward. As far as what crashing your estrogen would be like, lethargy, anxiety, depression, achey no libido. If your estrogen is too high, symptoms would be irritability, emotional, watery, horny but dick doesn't work great. I would really recommend holding off on using the AI until you see where your estrogen ends up after a few weeks. And doing minimum of 2x shots a week. Also, you don't need to use a 25g needle. You can use a 29g. Use the 25g or larger if you have to draw, then screw on a 29g to inject. A 1cc syringe will be easier to push (more hydraulic force) than a 3cc syringe. And you can throw your vial on a coffee cup warmer ($10 on Amazon) for a minute to warm the oil if it's still too hard. There are zero downsides to finer needles besides time and sometimes effort. Less scar tissue is always a win ETA: and if/when you add the AI, break that pill up as I mentioned. Don't let the dust get on/around your kids. Your response mirrors what I was expecting. I'm going to fill the AI prescription today, but will wait a couple of weeks to decide if I want to take it. I'll pick up some smaller sharps when I get a chance. I also like the vastus lateralis but a lot of people have difficulty with their quads. I didn't try mine until about a year in. |
"The state is not the solution. It is the problem." --Javier Milei
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
|
Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Sorry - I was unclear. I meant that I'm going to decide based upon those results :) Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Whelp - first injection down. Here's hoping it has a positive impact. Doing it myself based on YouTube videos for site location and experience injecting livestock was kinda trippy. I will say this: if you're scared of the injections themselves, you can rest easy. I hate getting blood drawn, and always involuntarily jump when the need is inserted. Until the last five years or so, I'd be at risk of hyperventilating while waiting for the draw to be completed. I just injected 0.6mL into my outer thigh (vastus lateralis) with a 1" 25ga needle. I was nervous with it being my first time and all, and inserted it slower than I likely will in the future to make sure I went in straight. Steady pressure on the plunger is enough, and once it was in it was like a weight lifted - it didn't hurt at all, so I was able to slowly and intentionally empty the syringe and pull it back out. Even though I've only done it once, I'm confident I won't have problems with it going forward. As far as what crashing your estrogen would be like, lethargy, anxiety, depression, achey no libido. If your estrogen is too high, symptoms would be irritability, emotional, watery, horny but dick doesn't work great. I would really recommend holding off on using the AI until you see where your estrogen ends up after a few weeks. And doing minimum of 2x shots a week. Also, you don't need to use a 25g needle. You can use a 29g. Use the 25g or larger if you have to draw, then screw on a 29g to inject. A 1cc syringe will be easier to push (more hydraulic force) than a 3cc syringe. And you can throw your vial on a coffee cup warmer ($10 on Amazon) for a minute to warm the oil if it's still too hard. There are zero downsides to finer needles besides time and sometimes effort. Less scar tissue is always a win ETA: and if/when you add the AI, break that pill up as I mentioned. Don't let the dust get on/around your kids. Your response mirrors what I was expecting. I'm going to fill the AI prescription today, but will wait a couple of weeks to decide if I want to take it. I'll pick up some smaller sharps when I get a chance. I also like the vastus lateralis but a lot of people have difficulty with their quads. I didn't try mine until about a year in. Ok good lol |
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Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Ok good lol 11/11/2020: 232.9 pg/mL 12/03/2021: 276.7 pg/mL 6/22/2022: 367.9 pg/mL 5/10/2023: 317.9 pg/mL 10/10/2024: 136 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 118 pg/mL Interestingly, the drop in 2024 coincides exactly with Quest changing the disclaimers included in the results - so I have to wonder if maybe they changed test methodologies or something. Who knows? Estradiol: 8/23/2022: 44 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 36 pg/mL |
"The state is not the solution. It is the problem." --Javier Milei
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
|
Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: For context, here's my results for "Estrogen, Total, Serum (439)" from Quest: 11/11/2020: 232.9 pg/mL 12/03/2021: 276.7 pg/mL 6/22/2022: 367.9 pg/mL 5/10/2023: 317.9 pg/mL 10/10/2024: 136 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 118 pg/mL Interestingly, the drop in 2024 coincides exactly with Quest changing the disclaimers included in the results - so I have to wonder if maybe they changed test methodologies or something. Who knows? Estradiol: 8/23/2022: 44 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 36 pg/mL Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Ok good lol 11/11/2020: 232.9 pg/mL 12/03/2021: 276.7 pg/mL 6/22/2022: 367.9 pg/mL 5/10/2023: 317.9 pg/mL 10/10/2024: 136 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 118 pg/mL Interestingly, the drop in 2024 coincides exactly with Quest changing the disclaimers included in the results - so I have to wonder if maybe they changed test methodologies or something. Who knows? Estradiol: 8/23/2022: 44 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 36 pg/mL |
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Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Yeah it's relatively likely the estrogen alone was suppressing your test production. Could have been an easy fix and likely could have been discontinued once your weight is all the way down. Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Ok good lol 11/11/2020: 232.9 pg/mL 12/03/2021: 276.7 pg/mL 6/22/2022: 367.9 pg/mL 5/10/2023: 317.9 pg/mL 10/10/2024: 136 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 118 pg/mL Interestingly, the drop in 2024 coincides exactly with Quest changing the disclaimers included in the results - so I have to wonder if maybe they changed test methodologies or something. Who knows? Estradiol: 8/23/2022: 44 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 36 pg/mL I've been trying to develop an exercise routine for the past seven years. I've paid for a gym membership for three years without going once - I'd wake up, have no energy, and go back to sleep for the two hours before work. I took time off work with the explicit intention of starting - and failed to do so. I bought a metal detector, and used it as often as I could. It didn't stick. I bought night vision, and started walking at night. It didn't stick. Nothing has. My life has felt like it's increasingly in shambles - my back yard is a mess, the hardwood floor in my kitchen is buckled, my master bathroom's plumbing is fucked up, and now I have a leak over our other bathroom. I'm capable of fixing all of those things, but haven't been able to do so. All I've done is work, try to self-regulate, and sleep. I want to be 100% clear here: I don't believe what I'm doing is the absolute minimal approach that I could take. I'm explicitly accepting higher risk, including the permanent reliance on exogenous testosterone. I understand that most people tend to recover most or all of their natural test production after ceasing treatment and waiting a few months, but I'm operating under the assumption that it's permanent. That strikes me as the only rational way to see it. You have to understand - I made the determination that this was acceptable to me almost three years ago. My energy levels and overall enjoyment of life has declined steadily since 2018, and had gotten to the point that I frankly didn't give a shit if I lived or died. While I wasn't suicidal, I was close, and I would have been if not for my past experience with managing depression. I've gotten really good at managing the effects but have struggled my entire life with fixing the causes. I could have started with only an AI and monitoring. Unfortunately, by the time I had the data to support that, I had reached a critical point and needed to make a drastic change; that's exactly what this is for me. The status quo was unsustainable and I was exhausted trying to sustain it. Today, 24 hours later - I have more energy, drive, and motivation than I ever recall having. With my issues with depression in early adulthood, there was never a time in my life where I truly felt fully in control of every aspect of my life. It's still very early in this, and I have more than enough experience with my own health to know better than to assume it's representative of the long-term effect, but I cannot overstate how much of a difference it has made. All of that said, I don't feel "elevated". I feel like I've always felt I was supposed to feel, and how I perceive others around me feel. Maybe I'm "biohacking" here. Maybe I don't technically need TRT from a purely physical/medical perspective. What I can say with certainty is that I've made a well-informed decision that has (so far) had a very positive impact on my overall health and wellbeing. In no way do I mean to say that this is the right approach for everyone; only that it is the right approach for me. You don't have to worry about me having based my decision on your advice or this thread, either. I've used it as a basis for building knowledge and understanding, and appreciate it a great deal, but the decision was 100% mine. I'm also not going to advocate others with my lab results follow my example - in fact, I plan to do the opposite. My numbers say that the issue is borderline and could likely be addressed through other means, over time. I've seen it said repeatedly in this thread "don't treat numbers, treat symptoms". I agree with that, and that's exactly what I'm doing. |
"The state is not the solution. It is the problem." --Javier Milei
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
"If this is how the state treats its law-abiding citizens, it doesn't deserve to have any"
--Solzhenitsyn
|
Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: I agree, but this is the path I want to go down. To put it in context: I've already gone through a round of weight loss, and was successful - in 2017 and 2018, I lost ~80 pounds. I felt worse overall as result, to the point that I was unable to make further progress. I've been trying to develop an exercise routine for the past seven years. I've paid for a gym membership for three years without going once - I'd wake up, have no energy, and go back to sleep for the two hours before work. I took time off work with the explicit intention of starting - and failed to do so. I bought a metal detector, and used it as often as I could. It didn't stick. I bought night vision, and started walking at night. It didn't stick. Nothing has. My life has felt like it's increasingly in shambles - my back yard is a mess, the hardwood floor in my kitchen is buckled, my master bathroom's plumbing is fucked up, and now I have a leak over our other bathroom. I'm capable of fixing all of those things, but haven't been able to do so. All I've done is work, try to self-regulate, and sleep. I want to be 100% clear here: I don't believe what I'm doing is the absolute minimal approach that I could take. I'm explicitly accepting higher risk, including the permanent reliance on exogenous testosterone. I understand that most people tend to recover most or all of their natural test production after ceasing treatment and waiting a few months, but I'm operating under the assumption that it's permanent. That strikes me as the only rational way to see it. You have to understand - I made the determination that this was acceptable to me almost three years ago. My energy levels and overall enjoyment of life has declined steadily since 2018, and had gotten to the point that I frankly didn't give a shit if I lived or died. While I wasn't suicidal, I was close, and I would have been if not for my past experience with managing depression. I've gotten really good at managing the effects but have struggled my entire life with fixing the causes. I could have started with only an AI and monitoring. Unfortunately, by the time I had the data to support that, I had reached a critical point and needed to make a drastic change; that's exactly what this is for me. The status quo was unsustainable and I was exhausted trying to sustain it. Today, 24 hours later - I have more energy, drive, and motivation than I ever recall having. With my issues with depression in early adulthood, there was never a time in my life where I truly felt fully in control of every aspect of my life. It's still very early in this, and I have more than enough experience with my own health to know better than to assume it's representative of the long-term effect, but I cannot overstate how much of a difference it has made. All of that said, I don't feel "elevated". I feel like I've always felt I was supposed to feel, and how I perceive others around me feel. Maybe I'm "biohacking" here. Maybe I don't technically need TRT from a purely physical/medical perspective. What I can say with certainty is that I've made a well-informed decision that has (so far) had a very positive impact on my overall health and wellbeing. In no way do I mean to say that this is the right approach for everyone; only that it is the right approach for me. You don't have to worry about me having based my decision on your advice or this thread, either. I've used it as a basis for building knowledge and understanding, and appreciate it a great deal, but the decision was 100% mine. I'm also not going to advocate others with my lab results follow my example - in fact, I plan to do the opposite. My numbers say that the issue is borderline and could likely be addressed through other means, over time. I've seen it said repeatedly in this thread "don't treat numbers, treat symptoms". I agree with that, and that's exactly what I'm doing. Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Originally Posted By SimonPhoto: Originally Posted By HappyCamel: Ok good lol 11/11/2020: 232.9 pg/mL 12/03/2021: 276.7 pg/mL 6/22/2022: 367.9 pg/mL 5/10/2023: 317.9 pg/mL 10/10/2024: 136 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 118 pg/mL Interestingly, the drop in 2024 coincides exactly with Quest changing the disclaimers included in the results - so I have to wonder if maybe they changed test methodologies or something. Who knows? Estradiol: 8/23/2022: 44 pg/mL 6/30/2025: 36 pg/mL I've been trying to develop an exercise routine for the past seven years. I've paid for a gym membership for three years without going once - I'd wake up, have no energy, and go back to sleep for the two hours before work. I took time off work with the explicit intention of starting - and failed to do so. I bought a metal detector, and used it as often as I could. It didn't stick. I bought night vision, and started walking at night. It didn't stick. Nothing has. My life has felt like it's increasingly in shambles - my back yard is a mess, the hardwood floor in my kitchen is buckled, my master bathroom's plumbing is fucked up, and now I have a leak over our other bathroom. I'm capable of fixing all of those things, but haven't been able to do so. All I've done is work, try to self-regulate, and sleep. I want to be 100% clear here: I don't believe what I'm doing is the absolute minimal approach that I could take. I'm explicitly accepting higher risk, including the permanent reliance on exogenous testosterone. I understand that most people tend to recover most or all of their natural test production after ceasing treatment and waiting a few months, but I'm operating under the assumption that it's permanent. That strikes me as the only rational way to see it. You have to understand - I made the determination that this was acceptable to me almost three years ago. My energy levels and overall enjoyment of life has declined steadily since 2018, and had gotten to the point that I frankly didn't give a shit if I lived or died. While I wasn't suicidal, I was close, and I would have been if not for my past experience with managing depression. I've gotten really good at managing the effects but have struggled my entire life with fixing the causes. I could have started with only an AI and monitoring. Unfortunately, by the time I had the data to support that, I had reached a critical point and needed to make a drastic change; that's exactly what this is for me. The status quo was unsustainable and I was exhausted trying to sustain it. Today, 24 hours later - I have more energy, drive, and motivation than I ever recall having. With my issues with depression in early adulthood, there was never a time in my life where I truly felt fully in control of every aspect of my life. It's still very early in this, and I have more than enough experience with my own health to know better than to assume it's representative of the long-term effect, but I cannot overstate how much of a difference it has made. All of that said, I don't feel "elevated". I feel like I've always felt I was supposed to feel, and how I perceive others around me feel. Maybe I'm "biohacking" here. Maybe I don't technically need TRT from a purely physical/medical perspective. What I can say with certainty is that I've made a well-informed decision that has (so far) had a very positive impact on my overall health and wellbeing. In no way do I mean to say that this is the right approach for everyone; only that it is the right approach for me. You don't have to worry about me having based my decision on your advice or this thread, either. I've used it as a basis for building knowledge and understanding, and appreciate it a great deal, but the decision was 100% mine. I'm also not going to advocate others with my lab results follow my example - in fact, I plan to do the opposite. My numbers say that the issue is borderline and could likely be addressed through other means, over time. I've seen it said repeatedly in this thread "don't treat numbers, treat symptoms". I agree with that, and that's exactly what I'm doing. I was borderline (300s) but terrible for my age (early 30s) and had no levers to pull (no weight issue, great health, sleep, diet). I can't change work stress, and that's probably what it is. Fortunately this has worked for me, I don't feel like I'm slowly dying anymore. |
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Just got my labs back, will have a consult with PeterMD later this week or early next. Everything was right where I expected and where I left off when I stopped in 2020. Test total: 283 Test free: 38.7 FSH: 3.4 LH: 5.2 RBC: 4.97 Hemo: 15.3 HCT: 45.6 MCV: 91.8 MCH: 30.8 MCHC: 33.6 RDW: 13.2 MPV: 10.4 PSA: 0.89 |
Life is too short to drive boring cars.
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Originally Posted By D_J: HappyCamel mentioned it and so far they've been easy to deal with. We'll see. How was their process? Were you able to provide your own, recent labs? Or did they make you do more? |
"Makes me realize why there are warning labels on hemorrhoid cream about not using it orally" - Weomi
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Originally Posted By StarCityShooter: How was their process? Were you able to provide your own, recent labs? Or did they make you do more? Originally Posted By StarCityShooter: Originally Posted By D_J: HappyCamel mentioned it and so far they've been easy to deal with. We'll see. How was their process? Were you able to provide your own, recent labs? Or did they make you do more? I bought labs from them since I hadn’t had any in a while, but I’m pretty sure you can supply your own. Their team communicates via text and is very responsive. Program includes 200 mg Test-C/mo, AI if needed, supplies and shipping. 2x/wk dosing is standard. $139/mo monthly $119/mo for 6 mo plan $99/mo for 12 mo plan 10% discount off annual plan thru Nov 30 = $89/mo. |
Life is too short to drive boring cars.
|
Originally Posted By D_J: I bought labs from them since I hadn’t had any in a while, but I’m pretty sure you can supply your own. Their team communicates via text and is very responsive. Program includes 200 mg Test-C/mo, AI if needed, supplies and shipping. 2x/wk dosing is standard. $139/mo monthly $119/mo for 6 mo plan $99/mo for 12 mo plan 10% discount off annual plan thru Nov 30 = $89/mo. Thanks! So when you say 200mg Test C/mo, is it literally a 1ml vial of test for the month? Or do they send a larger vial? |
"Makes me realize why there are warning labels on hemorrhoid cream about not using it orally" - Weomi
Save VA, Join or Donate to VCDL!
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Originally Posted By StarCityShooter: Thanks! So when you say 200mg Test C/mo, is it literally a 1ml vial of test for the month? Or do they send a larger vial? Originally Posted By StarCityShooter: Originally Posted By D_J: I bought labs from them since I hadn’t had any in a while, but I’m pretty sure you can supply your own. Their team communicates via text and is very responsive. Program includes 200 mg Test-C/mo, AI if needed, supplies and shipping. 2x/wk dosing is standard. $139/mo monthly $119/mo for 6 mo plan $99/mo for 12 mo plan 10% discount off annual plan thru Nov 30 = $89/mo. Thanks! So when you say 200mg Test C/mo, is it literally a 1ml vial of test for the month? Or do they send a larger vial? Not sure - I haven’t had my consult yet. |
Life is too short to drive boring cars.
|
Originally Posted By D_J: I bought labs from them since I hadn’t had any in a while, but I’m pretty sure you can supply your own. Their team communicates via text and is very responsive. Program includes 200 mg Test-C/mo, AI if needed, supplies and shipping. 2x/wk dosing is standard. $139/mo monthly $119/mo for 6 mo plan $99/mo for 12 mo plan 10% discount off annual plan thru Nov 30 = $89/mo. This is a cookie cutter shop? Or there are actual docs that can evaluate symptoms (I don't care about numbers). Honest question. Thanks. |
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Originally Posted By D_J: Not sure - I haven’t had my consult yet. Gotcha! Please report back when you find out
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"Makes me realize why there are warning labels on hemorrhoid cream about not using it orally" - Weomi
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Originally Posted By tucansam: This is a cookie cutter shop? Or there are actual docs that can evaluate symptoms (I don't care about numbers). Honest question. Thanks. Originally Posted By tucansam: Originally Posted By D_J: I bought labs from them since I hadn’t had any in a while, but I’m pretty sure you can supply your own. Their team communicates via text and is very responsive. Program includes 200 mg Test-C/mo, AI if needed, supplies and shipping. 2x/wk dosing is standard. $139/mo monthly $119/mo for 6 mo plan $99/mo for 12 mo plan 10% discount off annual plan thru Nov 30 = $89/mo. This is a cookie cutter shop? Or there are actual docs that can evaluate symptoms (I don't care about numbers). Honest question. Thanks. My understanding is that you’ll get a starting dose based on lab results, age, height/weight and then they’ll adjust based on desired level and progress. Labs are required at 6 weeks and 12 weeks if memory serves, and then every so many months after so they can continue to adjust dosing. |
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Originally Posted By StarCityShooter: Gotcha! Please report back when you find out Originally Posted By StarCityShooter: Originally Posted By D_J: Not sure - I haven’t had my consult yet. Gotcha! Please report back when you find out Will do. |
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Originally Posted By D_J: HappyCamel mentioned it and so far they've been easy to deal with. We'll see. Originally Posted By D_J: Originally Posted By tucansam: Is PeterMD good to go? HappyCamel mentioned it and so far they've been easy to deal with. We'll see. Interdasting. I have no complaints about a local place, but I knew from the beginning that their radio advertisements are coming out of my pocket. It was helpful as a noob to visit the brick & mortar, but unless labs go wonky it seems that I don't need baby steps anymore. |
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Originally Posted By HappyCamel: As long as they don't force you to come in for injections, and they don't try to cross-sell the living shit out of you cause they're a wellness clinic, nothing is super out of the ordinary. I don't see DHT on that labs list, but if they can run it cheaply is a good marker to keep track of if you have hair loss concerns. Labs came back mostly normal except for Estradiol a 5 (with a reference range of 11.3-43.2). Test 358 SHBG 26 Free Test 7.8 FSH 3.5 LH6.4 Prescription for Test Cyp self injections twice a week with labs every 8 weeks until we get to consistent dosing/resuts and then once every 6 months. $130 includes unlimited access to the provider as well as weekly B-12 injections if I want them. If I end up needing other meds like AI as a result those will be included (no upcharge). Seems pretty legit so far. |
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Been reading through this thread. I was tested by my PCM a week ago. Test came back at 360, which I was told was "normal". 300 to 1000 is normal I guess. So I am on the bottom end of normal. Is there any options for me? I am thinking aftermarket, my pcm doesn't seem to be interested in prescribing anything, although I do see him again in a week or so. |
"No bastard ever won a war by dying for his country. He won it by making the other poor dumb bastard die for his country." George S. Patton
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Originally Posted By boman250: Been reading through this thread. I was tested by my PCM a week ago. Test came back at 360, which I was told was "normal". 300 to 1000 is normal I guess. So I am on the bottom end of normal. Is there any options for me? I am thinking aftermarket, my pcm doesn't seem to be interested in prescribing anything, although I do see him again in a week or so. get a provider who doesn't treat numbers but treats symptoms. Or tell him you want you symptoms treated but he'll give you a shitty protocol. |
"You got to lick it, before you stick it."©
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
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What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
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If you guy need cheap labs at labcorp or quest use the below link for 20% off 20% off killer low prices use code Zawyfz QUEST 67 - Cortisol, Total [SERUM] [RT] 402 - DHEA Sulfate, Immunoassay [SERUM] [RT] 482 - Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) [SERUM] [RT] 746 - Prolactin [SERUM] [RT] 4021 - Estradiol [SERUM] [RT] 6399 - CBC (includes Differential and Platelets) [BLOOD] [RT] 10124 - hs-CRP [SERUM] [RT] 10231 - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel [SERUM] [RT] 15983 - Testosterone, Total, MS [SERUM] [RT] 30740 - Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) [SERUM] [RT] 94588 - Cystatin C with Glomerular Filtration Rate, Estimated (eGFR) [SERUM] [R Description Qty Unit price Amount Fixed Lab Fee 1 $12.00 $12.00 Sex Hormone Binding Globulin SHBG 1 $8.00 $8.00 Complete Blood Count CBC with Differential/Platelet 1 $4.00 $4.00 Testosterone, Total, MS 1 $11.00 $11.00 Prolactin 1 $9.00 $9.00 Estradiol 1 $8.00 $8.00 DHEASulfate 1 $11.00 $11.00 Cortisol 1 $8.00 $8.00 High-Sensitivity CReactive Protein (hs-CRP 1 $9.00 $9.00 Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP 1 $5.00 $5.00 Cystatin C 1 $30.00 $30.00 Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT 1 $6.00 $6.00 Subtotal $121.00 Total $121.0 |
"You got to lick it, before you stick it."©
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
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Howdy! Years ago I noticed my test levels were quite low, but decided to focus on resolving other health issues first and revisit later in life. Well, "later in life" has happened. I got tested through trtnation and have been presented options of TRT or TRT + HCG. As an unmarried man with no children (who wants that in the future), is HCG an effective way of helping preserve fertility? I recognize I'll likely have to drop the TRT for a period when fertility is desired. My main concern is that it comes back when needed. |
When we face the impossible, we dream a way through. Awakened with purpose, inspiring generations anew...
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Originally Posted By Caboose314: Howdy! Years ago I noticed my test levels were quite low, but decided to focus on resolving other health issues first and revisit later in life. Well, "later in life" has happened. I got tested through trtnation and have been presented options of TRT or TRT + HCG. As an unmarried man with no children (who wants that in the future), is HCG an effective way of helping preserve fertility? I recognize I'll likely have to drop the TRT for a period when fertility is desired. My main concern is that it comes back when needed. |
"You got to lick it, before you stick it."©
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
What would you die for? Unlikley for the average dipshit. Most people just ain't worth it.--drjarhead
I'm SNARKY with the moderator
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Originally Posted By TheRealSundance: You can do either and you don't have to drop TRT to get a woman pregnant. Originally Posted By TheRealSundance: Originally Posted By Caboose314: Howdy! Years ago I noticed my test levels were quite low, but decided to focus on resolving other health issues first and revisit later in life. Well, "later in life" has happened. I got tested through trtnation and have been presented options of TRT or TRT + HCG. As an unmarried man with no children (who wants that in the future), is HCG an effective way of helping preserve fertility? I recognize I'll likely have to drop the TRT for a period when fertility is desired. My main concern is that it comes back when needed. -If you have the means, test and freeze sperm. -Use HCG on TRT -You can try to conceive while on -If sperm fertility parameters are bad on TRT, when it comes time to conceive you may have to reduce dose, come off, and/or do a fertility protocol. Some people find success with just adding HMG for 3-6mo, but you're looking at spending hundreds of dollars for HMG if you're getting it from China, or thousands of from India, or a new car if insurance doesn't cover it but you get it from a US pharmacy. |
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Originally Posted By TheRealSundance: You can do either and you don't have to drop TRT to get a woman pregnant. Originally Posted By TheRealSundance: Originally Posted By Caboose314: Howdy! Years ago I noticed my test levels were quite low, but decided to focus on resolving other health issues first and revisit later in life. Well, "later in life" has happened. I got tested through trtnation and have been presented options of TRT or TRT + HCG. As an unmarried man with no children (who wants that in the future), is HCG an effective way of helping preserve fertility? I recognize I'll likely have to drop the TRT for a period when fertility is desired. My main concern is that it comes back when needed. |