Normal number?

[MK1]

My last lab shows testosterone at 373.
Is this normal or a good number? Low?

[powerlifterty16]

how old are you, have you ever cycled? we also need the range of the lab, and you need to know your free testosterone . 373 on most scales is low normal..which is low enough to cause symptoms bruh.

[MK1]

how old are you, have you ever cycled? we also need the range of the lab, and you need to know your free testosterone. 373 on most scales is low normal..which is low enough to cause symptoms bruh.

33 it doesn't show the range? For what ever reason? What is the lab called that I should have my primary run on me. I think he just ran a standard set of labs on me the last time. I did a small deca cycle about 13 years ago . I have the symptoms but my Doc says its PTSD and put me on Cilexa which I feel doesn't work at all he also put me on Wellbutrin but again hasn't done anything but taking the edge off and removing my desire to have sex, as well as removing the climax about all together although she's not complaining about and it makes for a killer ab workout

[harddrive]

Cilexa which I feel doesn't work at all he also put me on Wellbutrin but again hasn't done anything but taking the edge off and removing my desire to have sex, as well as removing the climax about all together although she's not complaining about and it makes for a killer ab workout

I have PTSD from losing a 15 yr old kid and father in a car wreck 4 years ago. I've been on that shit ur talking about. Zoloft works best for me SSRI, makes me not really care, and Xanax when I get shaky or agitated around a bunch of people.
Any SSRI will have those side effects, plus weird full color dreams. Sometimes it takes me 3 sessions ( 3 different days) to bust a nut.

I'll be 50 in about a month, and have low T, I'm getting ready to start on a TRT, the last one I did 1 CC of Test C 200 e2w. Took about 2 or 3 weeks to feel better and get good wood again.
I had to quit it, got all messed up with my liver, spleen and pancreas. Diabetes was eating me up and I didn't have a clue, thought it was just depression because I was felling like shit all the time.

[MK1]

I have PTSD from losing a 15 yr old kid and father in a car wreck 4 years ago. I've been on that shit ur talking about. Zoloft works best for me SSRI, makes me not really care, and Xanax when I get shaky or agitated around a bunch of people. Any SSRI will have those side effects, plus weird full color dreams. Sometimes it takes me 3 sessions ( 3 different days) to bust a nut.

Man I'm really sorry to hear about. I thought I understood loss but a kid and father is serious. My hart go out to you sir. I get agitated but coupled with stress and I get dangerous scares the hell out of my wife at her request I saw the Doc. Military history shows a good candidate for PTSD but honestly I don't think that's it. Sometimes it a little tough but that's why god made scotch. Still no dreams thank god I don't like dreams so much. The sex is iffy and although my wife loves it I have to basically force myself where before I'd eff a brick wall if it struck me.

[kelkel]

In the Finding A Doc sticky threat at the top of this forum is a list of BW to obtain.
For example, Labcorp's total test scale runs from 348 - 1197 going from memory.
Get more blood work done and always obtain copies for yourself. You need to determine what the cause of the problem is first, prior to initiating TRT.

[MK1]

In the Finding A Doc sticky threat at the top of this forum is a list of BW to obtain. For example, Labcorp's total test scale runs from 348 - 1197 going from memory. Get more blood work done and always obtain copies for yourself. You need to determine what the cause of the problem is first, prior to initiating TRT.

Cool got it! I'll do some homework
Thanks

[MK1]

Ok this just in Doc called and I was 3pts low last BW and recent shows 30pts low. They are prescribing a patch which I said wouldn't work for me so I requested something else. They said injections are the only thing they will do. So I now have a script for a once monthly injection. What else will I need? Any kind of blockers or anything to help me in the gym?

[bullshark99]

First thing you need is a new Dr. Once a month injection??? Do you know the half life of testosterone ? Obviously tout DR doesn't. Once a month injection is enough to shut your natty OFF and you will feel much worse than you do now assumming you have symptoms and are not just looking at a number? Please read all the stickies above and you will be much more prepared and informed.

[2Sox]

Ok this just in Doc called and I was 3pts low last BW and recent shows 30pts low. They are prescribing a patch which I said wouldn't work for me so I requested something else. They said injections are the only thing they will do. So I now have a script for a once monthly injection. What else will I need? Any kind of blockers or anything to help me in the gym?

Bullshark's comment is exactly on the mark and you should follow his suggestions about doing your homework on this site by reading the "stickies". My advice is the same as his; RUN away from this doctor as fast as you can and don't look back. This guy knows nothing about TRT and just as surely as the sun comes up in the morning, HE WILL HURT YOU. There are countless men who have posted here with the same awful story. And they got the same advice you're getting. I happen to be one of them.

Meanwhile, in a previous post above, Kel advised that you find out the cause of you low T before you begin dosing anything for TRT. Have you? What was the diagnosis? It's been said many times - TRT is for life. Don't get on the train before you know the reason for your trip.

You might also want to visit the library and get out all the books you can about your condition.

[bullshark99]

Mk1,
2Sox is much more articulate than me, do yourself a big favor and run, don't look back. I too, was to trusting and now am a lifer.

[MK1]

At my last post I didn't have any instructions as to what type and what dosage and how often I'll know more tomorrow

[MK1]

At my last post I didn't have any instructions as to what type and what dosage and how often I'll know more tomorrow

I do know its test c 200m

[kelkel]

I strongly encourage you to NOT start any TRT protocol until you find the causative factor with a competent doctor. 2Sox's line Don't get on the train before you know the reason for your trip, could not be more accurate. You seriously need full BW and a good evaluation with a doc who understands hormones. Your's doesn't. At all.

I'd suggest you obtain copies of your BW from your current doctor and move on. Low T can be caused by many things from hypothyroidism to pathologies, trauma or varicoceles. Hence why you need to know the cause. Don't settle for "your test is low." Rule everything out and then maybe it's simply age related and that's relatively acceptable.

Just imagine if you did not investigate this further and the actual cause was found to be a tumor on your pituitary, which are not that uncommon, and it wasn't benign like most are? Or by an undiagnosed varicocele that leads to an infection in your testicals or worse a blood clot. Food for thought.

[MK1]

Good knowledge
I'll obtain copy's of my BW

[MK1]

Just spoke with the office and script is for Test C 0.5ml every two weeks.

[2Sox]

Just spoke with the office and script is for Test C 0.5ml every two weeks.

Don't you want to know the cause of your hypogonadism? I strongly advise that you call the office back right away and find out. It's your life and I suggest you take charge of it.

Is our advice going over your head or am I missing something here? In my view, if you took our suggestions seriously and you sincerely wanted help, you would have followed through and then updated us with your progress so we could help you further. Apparently, you have done neither. What have you been doing since your first post almost six months ago?


Forgive me for bolding but this needs repeating: YOUR DOCTOR IS INCOMPETENT.

At 200mg/mL your prescribed dose of 0.5mL/2 weeks is 100mg/2 weeks. From my limited knowledge, I know of no one who has ever been prescribed 50mg/week because it will not relieve any symptoms and bi-weekly dosing is ineffective - to say the very least.

This forum is a two way partnership. You get to work so we can get to work.

[MRNJ1992]

Range normally runs between 280-900. Your on the low end. Would need more info to give any advice,

[2Sox]

Range normally runs between 280-900. Your on the low end. Would need more info to give any advice,

Yes. This is what this is all about, isn't it?

[MK1]

Don't you want to know the cause of your hypogonadism? I strongly advise that you call the office back right away and find out. It's your life and I suggest you take charge of it. Is our advice going over your head or am I missing something here? In my view, if you took our suggestions seriously and you sincerely wanted help, you would have followed through and then updated us with your progress so we could help you further. Apparently, you have done neither. What have you been doing since your first post almost six months ago? Forgive me for bolding but this needs repeating: YOUR DOCTOR IS INCOMPETENT. At 200mg/mL your prescribed dose of 0.5mL/2 weeks is 100mg/2 weeks. From my limited knowledge, I know of no one who has ever been prescribed 50mg/week because it will not relieve any symptoms and bi-weekly dosing is ineffective - to say the very least. This forum is a two way partnership. You get to work so we can get to work.

I haven't started TRT or even filled the script yet. I am waiting until later in the month after I see him next week. I will be asking to see a Endo doctor and getting further BW. Please pardon my ignorance I am new at all of this. I am not disregarding what you have said, but am airing on the side of caution as my Dr has the Phd. I will be reviewing all of this with him and the forum. I'm only here to fix myself and help others from my experiences

[MK1]

Spoke with the office today and moved my appt for Monday. From previous BW and my last two labs of BW it seems that my PTSD protocol (exalipraham 20mg) and a cholesterol med are trimming my numbers back. My doctor also said to inject beneath the skin Sub Q not IM. Does this actually make a difference? I'll know more Monday evening. I told them the 0.5cc/mg concerned me as it seems there isn't the level of test after 8days to the 14day mark. I have an extremely stressful job for me and I make all my money under allot of pressure I simply cannot afford the roller coaster ride.

[MK1]

What are the specific questions I should ask my PCP?

[2Sox]

What are the specific questions I should ask my PCP?

Sub Q seems to be a trend at the moment and there is good reason for it. It works and it's also much easier. Also, there is more of a steady state release into the bloodstream. But this all depends on individual preference. At least your doctor knows about this.

You might want to say that you would feel more comfortable starting with 100mg/week splitting the dose in half (50mg every 3.5 days).

You may also suggest to him that you want a script for hCG to maintain testicular function. If you read the "sticky" you'll be able to say more.

Have him include the Estradiol "sensitive" assay on your blood work. I always have a CBC and CMP in every blood work I take. Good idea to also include DHT, DHEA-S, Vit. D, Prolactin, Cortisol, Pregnenolone and SHBG for sure. If you supplement DHEA and pregnenolone, and Vit D, IMO it's always a good idea to monitor your levels.

If you haven't had a Hepatic function panel, Lipid Panel, and Hemoglobin AIC (diagnoses likelihood of diabetes) done in awhile, it probably would be a good idea.

[MK1]

10-4 good info I'll read up on the HCG stickies again

[MK1]

Had my appointment with my PCP. Moved me to .5ml a week. I assume I cam split that into .25twice a week SubQ. No HCG yet, he said if we need it later we can address it then. He wants to focus on the primary goal. Now I am just marginally low he says. Caused by he believes my Meds and stress. Now have I said that needles scare the shit out of me. I could cut my hand off easier than sticking my self. I bought a few sizes of needles a 23g to draw a 25g and 28g insulin pens

[2Sox]

Most here would disagree with your doctor: 373 total T is not "marginally" low if you feel like crap. It's low.

IMO, it's best to start hCG with your T protocol because it maintains testicular function and has you feel a hell of a lot better. You'll be taking it later anyway, so delaying it is illogical to me. Why have you stones shrink and go through the discomfort? It's your body. I'd suggest you make it clear to him and gently insist that hCG is what you want - now.

Pick up 29gauge, 1/2 inch insulin syringes and you won't feel a thing. You might grow to like it. Easy Touch I have found is the most economical.

By the way. It's very good that your doctor has come around somewhat and is dosing what you requested. It may be a good sign of things to come.

[MK1]

Thanks man!
Looked into HCG it's $$$ where can it be obtained cheaper, do you have to have a script?
I took the first injection of .5ml today and I'll split the dose in 3.5days? I'll look into getting HCG on my own shortly. And get the script later. It wasn't all that bad injecting myself I'm a huge ***** so it took me 30min to stick myself and about a min or two to complete the transaction. Not much in the way of discomfort yet. Thanks for your help. Well get my DR on track.

[2Sox]

Thanks man!
Looked into HCG it's $$$ where can it be obtained cheaper, do you have to have a script?
I took the first injection of .5ml today and I'll split the dose in 3.5days? I'll look into getting HCG on my own shortly. And get the script later. It wasn't all that bad injecting myself I'm a huge ***** so it took me 30min to stick myself and about a min or two to complete the transaction. Not much in the way of discomfort yet. Thanks for your help. Well get my DR on track.

Just sent you a PM about hCG.

[MK1]

Although I'm sure it's all in my head. I'm not exhausted today like I have been lately. About how long does it take to feel it feel better? When will I notice it in the gym?