Let’s talk Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

[DrJonesUSA]

technically, 325 IS considered normal by some doctors because it falls within the range. I think around 300 in the start. But if you talk to an endocrinologist, they’ll tell you 300 is too low. I had to go to two doctors. My first doctor told me 325 was fine because it fell within the range. Even if it was the bottom of the range. 325 is def too low…and I felt like crap.

Wild. I’d have to look it up, so maybe, technically 325 could be the absolute MINIMUM of the range, but since a bell curve usually represents most things in life, I wouldn’t say it’s NORMAL nor AVERAGE. It maybe the extreme low end of the range.
I’d find another doctor.

The point is how you FEEL. If YOU don’t FEEL great, the doc needs to help you try different things to fix that. If they’re not willing to do that, again; find another doc. I signed up for a concierge doctor, both because she came highly recommended, but also because she is integrative – she doesn’t just look at numbers on a chart and make all decisions based off of that; she takes a lot of other factors into account.

What MY doc says is; sure there’s a “range” but **everyone is different**.
Someone could FEEL great at 400 (maybe they’d feel 10x better at 1000), but when I was at 400, I was…. Nowhere near as happy as I am now, at 1,000.

But I didn’t know any different, because I just didn’t know. You don’t know, what you don’t know.
And I didn’t know what a monumental, life-changing impact more testosterone would have in my life & marriage especially.

 

[ikeo1]

But I didn’t know any different, because I just didn’t know. You don’t know, what you don’t know.
And I didn’t know what a monumental, life-changing impact more testosterone would have in my life & marriage especially.

You’ve mentioned how it helped your marriage. In what way? Just curious how it helped in that aspect. The physiological benefits makes sense.

400 is definitely on the lower end but also depends on your height and size.

To Op:

I want to reiterate, it’s cool to try out, but understand that you may need to do other things if you want to have a family. Try natural lifestyle changes first and clean up your habits before trt. That way you have the least complications and the most benefits

If you already have a family, have at it.

 

[ACfixer]

RUN, don't walk to your doc.
Just try it - assuming your doc signs off, of course.
The difference is mind-blowing, in so many ways.

TRT is literally one of the best things I've done for my life & marriage.
It's one of those things where you don't realize how much you need improvement, until after you've improved, if that makes sense....

Well sir, I had my checkup today and asked my doc, he said sure and tested me. We'll see. He was all positive if used as prescribed by those that are actually low and will do so (prescribe it) if those statements prove to be true and I desire to proceed.

Thank you guys for the encouragement.

 

[SoCal326]

This is interesting, I had mine tested and the results showed a normal range being 175 ng/dl-781 ng/dl and mine was 284. You'll have me thinking it maybe time to see if I can bump that number up.

 

[Bluls1ss]

This is interesting, I had mine tested and the results showed a normal range being 175 ng/dl-781 ng/dl and mine was 284. You'll have me thinking it maybe time to see if I can bump that number up.

Not a doctor here either. Just because it’s in the normal range doesn’t mean it’s optimal brother. I don’t know your age weight and height, regardless id say it would be beneficial to raise it. Like mentioned above as long as we’re ticking the basics off first. Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep are absolute key to managing hormone levels.

PS has anyone tried the supplements said to help with testosterone like fadogia agrestis, tongkat ali, and ashwaghanda?

 

[DrJonesUSA]

This is interesting, I had mine tested and the results showed a normal range being 175 ng/dl-781 ng/dl and mine was 284. You'll have me thinking it maybe time to see if I can bump that number up.

Never hurts to just try....! You can always stop! I think it takes a month or so before you really feel the effects.

 

[DrJonesUSA]

You’ve mentioned how it helped your marriage. In what way? Just curious how it helped in that aspect. The physiological benefits makes sense.

400 is definitely on the lower end but also depends on your height and size.

To Op:

I want to reiterate, it’s cool to try out, but understand that you may need to do other things if you want to have a family. Try natural lifestyle changes first and clean up your habits before trt. That way you have the least complications and the most benefits

If you already have a family, have at it.

Well, it has made my sex drive go through the roof; it's given me tons of sexual energy & drive....and I've focused ALL that new energy on my wife....!
But not just physically; emotionally I feel like I've been falling in love with her all over again; appreciating her more; being more affectionate & attentive, etc. etc.
It's really made a massive impact. My doc said she's heard similar stories from people about TRT.

Oh; it's made my orgasms literally 20x stronger.....IDK if I'm a fluke or what, but holy freakin' crap..... not trying to be vulgar, but my whole body convulses. Never did that before......!!! It's seriously insane.

 

[DrJonesUSA]

I want to reiterate, it’s cool to try out, but understand that you may need to do other things if you want to have a family. Try natural lifestyle changes first and clean up your habits before trt.

Like hookers & blow, right?

 

[joefrank64k]

Well, it has made my sex drive go through the roof; it's given me tons of sexual energy & drive....and I've focused ALL that new energy on my wife....!
But not just physically; emotionally I feel like I've been falling in love with her all over again; appreciating her more; being more affectionate & attentive, etc. etc.
It's really made a massive impact. My doc said she's heard similar stories from people about TRT.

Oh; it's made my orgasms literally 20x stronger.....IDK if I'm a fluke or what, but holy freakin' crap..... not trying to be vulgar, but my whole body convulses. Never did that before......!!! It's seriously insane.

Ahhh!! My mind’s eye!!!

Haha!!

J/K DrJ!! Glad to hear it’s been so successful for you!!

Now you’ve got me making an appointment, haha!!

 

[RideandDive]

I’m in my mid-late 30s. Noticed my energy levels decreasing horribly over the last couple years. I’ve started to research TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy) in hopes to start getting some positive changes. I had my levels checked and I’m at 260. From what I’ve read, optimal is 650+.

I started by going to a local spot, GameDay Men’s Health. Their program starts at ~$225/mo for testosterone injections, averaging $56/week. Then $200/yr for bloodwork. These prices seem pretty high based on my research. I vaguely remember seeing somebody say they’re at about $10/week.

Which leads me to this discussion/question. Is anybody here on TRT? What are the advantages you have noticed? Costs associated? Do you have a Dr. you would recommend? (I am located in Riverside County FWIW)

36 years ago I had a pituitary gland injury, affected my testosterone level. 330, with the T level & energy levels of an elderly man. I went on TRT, under the oversight of an endocrinologist. I now run in the 600s - 700s. My energy levels & ability to maintain muscle mass are back. But because it's injury related it's covered by my insurance.

 

[9mmContagion]

36 years ago I had a pituitary gland injury, affected my testosterone level. 330, with the T level & energy levels of an elderly man. I went on TRT, under the oversight of an endocrinologist. I now run in the 600s - 700s. My energy levels & ability to maintain muscle mass are back. But because it's injury related it's covered by my insurance.

I’m looking into a local urologist nearby. Thanks for the input!

 

[bigRich22]

I can talk days about T, tren, masteron, clen, HGH, etc but I first ask you to get a thorough blood panel test and a gut biome test done then take it to the corresponding specialists and nutritionist. Then alter your diet, dedicate more time to doing the things you love vs doing "everything for the kids" and get better sleep. Our foods, water and time management are all poisonous. Meditate, create and after you get an upgraded lifestyle, then look at blasting. It will go much further when your body, mind and soul systems are all in sync

P.S. cut ALL seed oils.
P.S.S. alcohol destroys T and cranks Estro. Even a few drinks will set your endocrine system and hormonal levels out of wack and it will take months of sobriety for the body to normalize

ALSO, don't believe this was mentioned - lots of guys (and even docs) order only free floating text marker. Someone at 325 ng/dL who can utilize 70% of it, is in a better position than someone at 800 who's body only attaches 20% to albumin or someone with low SHBG levels. Im tired and lazy rn so I used our new Lord and Savior, AI, to share more info about this:

Total testosterone test
This is the most common test and measures both free and bound testosterone.

Free testosterone test
This test measures free testosterone levels in the blood.

Bioavailable testosterone test
This test measures free testosterone and testosterone that is loosely attached to albumin, a blood protein.

SHBG test
This test measures sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels, which can help determine how much testosterone is active in the body's tissues


DM if you have any Qs, my guy. You'll figure it out.

 

[DrJonesUSA]

Ahhh!! My mind’s eye!!!

Haha!!

J/K DrJ!! Glad to hear it’s been so successful for you!!

Now you’ve got me making an appointment, haha!!

Are you sorry you asked….?
Seriously though; I can’t say if my results are common, but damn…. It’s like I’ve been on an anti-depressant too, since I’ve started taking Testosterone… I mean; I have been on that for 20 years too, but still… LOL…..

Go get checked, as the wise men here say; check your basics / fundamentals too, otherwise you’re just putting lipstick on a pig;
- 1-2 gallons water per day
- Stretch just a bit each day (10-15 min)
- Get more sleep
- Diet: You already know what a healthy diet is supposed to be; no processed foods, no sugars, low carb, lots of fresh + whole meat, lots of fruits, vegetables, tons of dairy products. (Yes, tons of animal products)
- Agree 1,000% with the other guy who said seed oils are poison; they literally are.
- Same with alcohol;
—I quit drinking ~7 years ago with the birth of my oldest / 1st, and have never missed it one single day.

I’m glad to see so many men here having so much good knowledge & sharing it.
You guys are a great bunch, healthy too.

 

[DrJonesUSA]

I can talk days about T, tren, masteron, clen, HGH, etc but I first ask you to get a thorough blood panel test and a gut biome test done then take it to the corresponding specialists and nutritionist. Then alter your diet, dedicate more time to doing the things you love vs doing "everything for the kids" and get better sleep. Our foods, water and time management are all poisonous. Meditate, create and after you get an upgraded lifestyle, then look at blasting. It will go much further when your body, mind and soul systems are all in sync

P.S. cut ALL seed oils.
P.S.S. alcohol destroys T and cranks Estro. Even a few drinks will set your endocrine system and hormonal levels out of wack and it will take months of sobriety for the body to normalize

ALSO, don't believe this was mentioned - lots of guys (and even docs) order only free floating text marker. Someone at 325 ng/dL who can utilize 70% of it, is in a better position than someone at 800 who's body only attaches 20% to albumin or someone with low SHBG levels. Im tired and lazy rn so I used our new Lord and Savior, AI, to share more info about this:

Total testosterone test
This is the most common test and measures both free and bound testosterone.

Free testosterone test
This test measures free testosterone levels in the blood.

Bioavailable testosterone test
This test measures free testosterone and testosterone that is loosely attached to albumin, a blood protein.

SHBG test
This test measures sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels, which can help determine how much testosterone is active in the body's tissues


DM if you have any Qs, my guy. You'll figure it out.

Dude this is an epic post!!! Excellent advice - all of it.
I agree completely; you have to start with the basics.
Oh and; even if you think you are sleeping well; get a new mattress & pillow. Those things wear out + break down a lot quicker than you think, and new ones can make a massive difference in sleep quality.

Great advice!

 

[DrJonesUSA]

P.S.S. alcohol destroys T and cranks Estro. Even a few drinks will set your endocrine system and hormonal levels out of wack and it will take months of sobriety for the body to normalize

That’s what I was going to ask:
Not doubting, just curious; what’s your source for this / can you talk more about this? As I’ve mentioned, I quit drinking about 7 years ago & never felt better, but never heard this. I knew alcohol was bad for you, but damn…..

 

[drunktank]

Can any of you that use online clinics that have you draw bloodwork throughout the year share where you go (and if you’re happy with them)? I’ve been reading up on this the past year but haven’t met anyone who’s actually gone outside their insurance with this. I’m just high enough levels that insurance won’t cover, so looking where to go out of pocket. Thanks!

 

[9mmContagion]

Can any of you that use online clinics that have you draw bloodwork throughout the year share where you go (and if you’re happy with them)? I’ve been reading up on this the past year but haven’t met anyone who’s actually gone outside their insurance with this. I’m just high enough levels that insurance won’t cover, so looking where to go out of pocket. Thanks!

I went to a chain called Gameday Men’s Health. They’re pricey, which is why I’m looking at other options, but maybe they’ll work for you

 

[bigRich22]

That’s what I was going to ask:
Not doubting, just curious; what’s your source for this / can you talk more about this? As I’ve mentioned, I quit drinking about 7 years ago & never felt better, but never heard this. I knew alcohol was bad for you, but damn…..

Sure. And of course, everyone's programming is different & some bounce back depends on the individual genetics and lifestyle. Studied this 8-10 years ago. Knowing medical science constantly changes so wanted to update myself. About 50% of information in medical textbooks used in medical schools today is outdated + incorrect thus resulting into incalculable improper patient care (kinda scary). I'm not the biggest AI fan but I know it has some pros and it def made quick work of sharing some snapshots with you.

I also am dear friends with Dr. Anna Israel in Boston (and work with many Ivy League docs). She specializes in holistic wellness medicine and has given me some guidance she has given to the success of improving patients' health.

 

[bigRich22]

Only allows 3 .jpgs per post so here is the 4th and final

That’s what I was going to ask:
Not doubting, just curious; what’s your source for this / can you talk more about this? As I’ve mentioned, I quit drinking about 7 years ago & never felt better, but never heard this. I knew alcohol was bad for you, but damn…..

 

[DrJonesUSA]

Can any of you that use online clinics that have you draw bloodwork throughout the year share where you go (and if you’re happy with them)? I’ve been reading up on this the past year but haven’t met anyone who’s actually gone outside their insurance with this. I’m just high enough levels that insurance won’t cover, so looking where to go out of pocket. Thanks!

I signed up for a "Concierge Doctor" several years ago & it's one of the best decisions ever.
It's like doing business with any normal, small, efficient company with great customer service - except its my doctor.
No bureaucracy, no giant, sprawling hospital campuses to hike around; no automated phone tree; none of that.
So much easier & faster to work with.

In light of what's happened the past several years, would strongly suggest at least looking if there are any small, local, independent doctors in your area.
Some of the best money I've spent, no question.

That's who's been helping me. PLUS.....she introduced me to the concept of a MOBILE blood draw! There are several local companies / individuals who do mobile phlebotomy, so they come to my home or office to draw blood; no more waiting around / dealing with Quest or other similarly enormous & cumbersome mega-corporations for that either! No sitting in a waiting room, etc.

Highly recommend!