HCG Monotherapy?

[Jacked_Scientist]

Hey everyone,

Had a quick question for the vets out there. I went and got my t-levels checked and clocked in around 500. Doc recommended using HCG only. My LH level was smack in the middle of the range, and said that this would be the best way to raise my test. I've researched and understand how HCG mimics LH, and will naturally signal my testes to increase testosterone production.

My question is for those of you who have done this, do you feel the same benefits as testosterone injections?

I'm also concerned about the long term safety of this. From an anti-aging perspective I've heard of guys going on TRT with levels in the 500s, and I was wondering if anyone has experiences or opinions on feeling better on HCG only vs testosterone injections. Thanks, and I understand nothing anybody rights is considered medical advice.

[kelkel]

Hey everyone,

Had a quick question for the vets out there. I went and got my t-levels checked and clocked in around 500. Doc recommended using HCG only. My LH level was smack in the middle of the range, and said that this would be the best way to raise my test. I've researched and understand how HCG mimics LH, and will naturally signal my testes to increase testosterone production.

Yes, that's how it works but you're forgetting something. Your own production of LH via the Hypothalamus & Pituitary will eventually be suppressed as it senses it does not need it any more. It's a feedback mechanism.

My question is for those of you who have done this, do you feel the same benefits as testosterone injections?

Most all of the top experts will tell you that the subjective benefits are not the same a Testosterone therapy.

I'm also concerned about the long term safety of this. From an anti-aging perspective I've heard of guys going on TRT with levels in the 500s, and I was wondering if anyone has experiences or opinions on feeling better on HCG only vs testosterone injections. Thanks, and I understand nothing anybody rights is considered medical advice.

My main question is with a 500 test level is: How do you feel? What is your free T level and range? If your free T is good that's all that really matters here. Total T does not. If you have your current BW handy post it up so we can evaluate it.

[Jacked_Scientist]

My main question is with a 500 test level is: How do you feel? What is your free T level and range? If your free T is good that's all that really matters here. Total T does not. If you have your current BW handy post it up so we can evaluate it.

Hey Kelkel,

Thanks for the response, yes I understand that my LH will drop to near zero(as it would with exogenous testosterone injections as well)

That's exactly what I've been reading, that people who are on HCG solo, don't tend to experience all the benefits. Here's a partial of some recent bloods. All other values(cholesterol, etc.) are fine.

Testosterone, Serum 503 ng/dL 348 - 1197 01
Free Testosterone(Direct) 11.7 pg/mL 8.7 - 25.1 01
LH 4.7 mIU/mL 1.7 - 8.6 01
FSH 7.2 mIU/mL 1.5 - 12.4 01
Sex Horm Binding Glob, Serum 45.1 nmol/L 16.5 - 55.9 01
Estradiol 22.9 pg/mL 7.6 - 42.6 01
Roche ECLIA methodology

Overall, everything is 'normal' although total and free test are both on the low side. SHBG is also high, so much of my testosterone is being bound.

As far how I feel, many symptoms such as low stamina, and just an overall tired feeling. I know I've been slowing down lately. Overall lifestyle is fine, 3x weight lifting, planned meals, good sleep.

.

[kelkel]

Well, I would jump all over your SHBG. Cut that in half or so and you'll have a ton more free T. Ways to work on that are:

Vit D: Know your level before you supplement. Many threads here on D. Great hormone and most all people are low. Don't overdo it as it fat soluble and liver toxic if levels climb to high. Take it with large meals.

Stinging Nettle Root and/or Avenacosides.

These can work, it just takes time. Using D and Nettle made a big difference for me personally.