Questioning Results and Looking for some Insights

Pharma TRT
1

Hi everyone,

I wanted to run a question by you guys here to see if I could gain some insight on the numbers I received today:

Total Test: 356 ng/dL
SHBG: 28.1 mmol/L
Androgen Index: 44.0%
Free Test: 7.8ng/dL
Bioav. Test: 183.2 ng/dl

*I have been lifting for nearly 30 years now straight. Almost 49 years old and feel decent (I think anyway). Lift 4 -5 days per week with some GPP work thrown in once or twice weekly. About 210lbs @ 5’10".
When I look at these numbers, they sure do seem on the low end of what I think I should be at. But wanted to see if I could gather a couple thoughts before I ask my doc anything else.

Thank you for any insights!!

2

Your numbers are on the low end of the spectrum but if you aren’t experiencing symptoms of Low T, then I don’t see the purpose of pursuing TRT.

If you are looking for the boost that many people are interested in by means of TRT, then that is a different story though. You can always go to a TRT clinic and they will likely put you on prescription - it’s just a question of want vs need really… if you feel fine, this sounds like more of a want.

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3

Yes, you are correct. I am not experiencing any symptoms that I find to be problematic in any way (that I am aware of). Likely for me, it’s just more of wondering if anything could be better. Is the grass greener type of thing?

4

I don’t know if this question could be answered objectively to be honest. If you aren’t having any Low T symptoms, there isn’t a medical need for TRT - but you very well may will feel better in getting treatment.

As for your “greener grass” comment, some people find this to be the case regarding TRT:

At any rate, T-Nation has some good articles about TRT and I think this one might give some good insight if you’re interested: (https://www.t-nation.com/alpha-life/the-complete-guide-to-t-replacement/)

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2nd Steroid Cycle // 20th April 2022
5

Thanks very much! Will check that article out!! :+1:

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6

Generally, increasing testosterone improves strength, recovery from training, energy, body composition, libido and sexual function. If you are not satisfied with your levels in these areas, then TRT is an option for you. If you are satisfied, then I would not see a reason to change things. Only you can make that decision and there is no right or wrong, only what you believe is best for you.

I think you have your answer.

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7

This is actually kind of interesting because it likely means you have short Gene CAG repeats if you don’t have symptoms at these Free T levels.

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8

Gosh, I am trying to look that up but not certain what I am looking for? Is this a good or bad thing?

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A polymorphic CAG trinucleotide repeat is located in the AR gene and varies in length from 8 to 35 repeats in normal individuals. An inverse correlation exists between the CAG repeat length and receptor expression impacting on the strength of the androgen actions and sensitivity to sex hormones.

Androgen receptor (AR) gene CAG trinucleotide repeat length associated with body composition measures in non-syndromic obese, non-obese and Prader-Willi syndrome individuals - PMC (nih.gov)

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10

Thank you for that info. I was not aware of any of that.

Much appreciated!! :+1:

11

I’m in the same boat. This is my 30th year having my gym membership. I’m about as dedicated as one can be to it all.

My numbers were like you as well.

You mentioned no issues. How is liibido and erections?

My main reason I went on TRT was for libido and it didn’t really help. Maybe made things worse. BUT, with low T generally comes heart concerns.

I would have another round of tests performed to see if anything goes up, numbers wise. Low T isn’t heart healthy and your somewhat lowish.

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12

Sounds like we have a similar training history than (at least in terms of longevity anyway).

Libido is actually not too much of a concern and generally seems decent. Morning is still good.

I’ve been keeping pretty close track over the last few years and these numbers I received yesterday are relatively consistent with what I have seen over the last several years. An exception was when I used Mike Mahler’s Test Booster and my total test shot up to just over 650 ng/dL. I leaned out nicely during those two months that I took that, but haven’t tried it since. I didn’t notice any change in mood or libido during that time period at all.

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TRT can ruin that delicate balance needed for libido, but usually it comes back just fine after you go off.

I think i would talk to DR about heart concerns, if any, having such lowered numbers. Maybe try a few months and see how you feel.

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