I’ve recently been told (by Optimale) I have low test levels, after having 2 rounds of blood tests and dealing with symptoms associated to low test and the doctor has suggested starting TRT. But being new to it, I was wondering if those on here with a better understanding could tell if what’s been prescribed for the 1st 3 months, with a review to then adjust, is considered a high initial starting point or not. And how it would compare to someone doing a cycle. There’s some apprehension on my side starting, so doing more research before deciding.
The prescription is ethanate @ 0.20mls twice weekly
He’s also prescribing HCG @ 0.20mls mixed with 2mls of BAC water twice weekly
From the PDFs they sent me. Then it was phone consultations with doctor.
1st Results
FT 0.319 range - 0.2 - 0.62
SHGB 14 range - 18.3 - 54.1
Testosterone 10.70 range - 8.64 - 29
2nd Results
FT 0.304 range - 0.198 - 0.619
SHGB 13 range - 18.3 - 54.1
Testosterone 11.20 range - 8.64 - 29
Ah ok. All they’ve said is Enanthate: 0.20mls twice weekly and HCG: 0.20mls after mixing with 2mls of BAC water twice weekly. But I’ve just read the accompanying PDF again, it said the dosage will be on the side of the vials. So now I’m confused and it seems I don’t know what the actual dosage per injection is. So I’ll need to ask that question and post back here again
All of my scripts over the last few years have been 200mg/ml. So he would be doing 80mg/wk if that’s the case. Seems like a recipe for issues. I can see starting low but this will prob shut him down and provide less than he makes naturally.
They’ve said the HCG accompanying the test is to help ensure what I’m producing naturally now is maintained and the test is a top up, to bring up to a higher level.
I’ve asked the question buddy, this is all new to me and only got the prescription sent on email a few days ago. Once I have heard back, I’ll post in here and would welcome yours and others feedback, since you’re more experienced
You’re likely prescribed either 80mg or 100mg per week depending on concentration. Either way to answer your original question this is a conservative dose and nowhere near steroid cycle levels. It’s a decent starting place and will likely get you proper replacement levels.
I wouldn’t bother with the HCG if it were me. Some guys do well and others don’t. It’s not a necessary adjunct.
This is what the prescription is. So you fella’s we’re right
So for Enanthate (250mg/ml) - you are prescribed 0.20mls twice weekly. 0.20mls is equivalent to 50mg of Enanthate so you would be on 100mg of Enanthate per week.
The HCG is 5000iu - on your dose of 0.20mls twice weekly after mixing with 2mls of BAC water is equivalent to 500iu per dose - so 1000iu per week.
I kind of figured your Enth may be 250mg/ml. 100mg/wk is a great starting point. Its a conservative replacement dose. You can always increase later under Doc’s guidance if its not enough but it should be.
I don’t see anything wrong with the protocol he is prescribing. Dose, injection timing, etc all seem on par with best methods. I don’t like HCG, but I’m probably in the minority so give it a go and see how you feel!
If you have time, I’d be interested in your thoughts on my test results and if they’re low enough to warrant starting TRT - I’m apprehensive starting as you can probably tell
1st Results
FT 0.319 range - 0.2 - 0.62
SHGB 14 range - 18.3 - 54.1
Testosterone 10.70 range - 8.64 - 29
2nd Results
FT 0.304 range - 0.198 - 0.619
SHGB 13 range - 18.3 - 54.1
Testosterone 11.20 range - 8.64 - 29
You’re kind of borderline if you just go by the numbers. Your FT appears adequate although not stellar. TT is going to ‘appear’ low because your SHBG is low. Point being is that I don’t think it will be life changing for you like some others that have really low T. In your case it may alleviate symptoms depending on what they are but I wouldn’t expect it to be tranformational.
