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Testosterone TRT

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By *ngel50 OP   TV/TS
4 days ago

Kinross

Wondering how many men on here are on TRT testosterone replacement injections or Gels?

.

.

My reasons for TRT:

I have been on TRT testosterone replacement for 8 years now.

I was put on TRT when my Total Testosterone was 13nmol/L and my FREE testosterone was extremely Low

Low FREE Testosterone causes osteoporosis this is fact and it's called the hidden disease because you are fully unaware until your bones start fracturing.

I was initially on TestoGel manufactured by Besins Healthcare, Once my dosage and bloods had been fully tested and settled, I was taking 2 x 50mg sachet each morning and I remained on TestoGel for over 3 years. And before we get everyone chipping in saying Gels don't work, my total testosterone was a steady 24nmol/L daily.

I then changed to Nebido 1000mg/4 ml solution

It took about 6 - 8 months before my correct dosage gap was found and I am receiving the above injection every 8 weeks

My trough results are as follows;

Total testosterone - 26.7nmol/L

Free - testosterone - 0.414nmol/L

Bioavailable testosterone - 10.4nmol/L

PSA 2.6 (normal for myself)

Haematocrit - 0.48

SHBG - 56.3nmol/L

Albumin - 46g/L

All other bloods in normal range.

My DEXA scans over 6 years went from;

Osteoporosis to Osteopinia to Normal,

Bone density increased roughly by 12.4% every 2 years.

I will be on TRT for my whole life and whilst Testosterone normally starts to drop off in males from age 50 upwards, my testosterone is at present a steady 26.7nmol/L

I have studied all aspects of TRT for the past 7 years and have a full understanding of most processes and the different types of Gels and injections.

I am on TRT via my NHS Practice Doctor but I insist that my yearly bloods are taken by my private Consultant Urological Surgeon and Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer who's qualifications are - BSc (Hons) MBBS, PhD,FRCS (Urol).

My private Consultant who works both NHS and private, checks my bloods then writes to advise my NHS doctor on way ahead.

A am happy to give advice on TRT, but when comments get silly like when people say they have done a pin prick blood test and self blood tests I just ignore these comments

Over all, TRT testosterone replacement has been a life saver for myself, it works for me and has virtually saved my life.

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By *ub4daddyukMan
4 days ago

Warminster

How was your low testosterone initially discovered?

Were you getting symptoms?

What were they...might help others think about whether to look into their levels?

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By *damkingMan
4 days ago

Banstead

I’m on the gel too. Dosage seems hit and miss, have to chase the doctor for regular blood tests. Interesting to know if there is a better option

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By *ngel50 OP   TV/TS
4 days ago

Kinross


"How was your low testosterone initially discovered?

Were you getting symptoms?

What were they...might help others think about whether to look into their levels?"

I fractured my ankle, then shortly after received a hairline fracture to my back, my NHS surgeon suspected Low Testosterone

He carried out blood tests and my total testosterone was 13nmol/L

He said although this is acceptable, it's your Free Testosterone that is the decision maker as your Free Testosterone allows bone growth

My Free Testosterone was almost zero.

He then ordered a DEXA Scan and this proved Osteoporosis

HE fully explained the TRT process and explained that once you start, it's for life

He explained possible side effects and thoroughly explained that once started, my chances of fathering a child would be almost zero.

He wrote to my NHS GP suggesting that I start TRT and my doctor was fully supportive of this.

He also put me in touch with a private urologist and suggested that I start thing's off with him until my dosage and blood levels were correct then transferring over to my GP Doctor.

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By *ngel50 OP   TV/TS
4 days ago

Kinross


"I’m on the gel too. Dosage seems hit and miss, have to chase the doctor for regular blood tests. Interesting to know if there is a better option "

What Gel are you on?

And are you on sachets or pump?

How many sachets each morning? or if pump, how many pumps of gel each morning

Is your blood test taken early morning before 10am and obviously before applying Gel?

Happy to answer questions directly via pm if you don't want to talk on open furum

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By *ub4daddyukMan
4 days ago

Warminster

I'm due a complete MOT type gp visit..I'm at that age now apparently

If this isn't included I might request, they're doing bloods for lots of other checks anyway.

I can't imagine you need to for the test but was there anything you had to do before to prepare, like for diabetes to be accurate you have not had breakfast or something? Like I say I can't imagine there would be with regards to testosterone.

Looking back could you recognise any other symptoms that at the time didn't jump out, but now could have been related?

Do you do the injections yourself?

Have you noticed any other changes in yourself apart from knowing your bone health has corrected?

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By *ajkumarkapoorMan
4 days ago

London

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can cause prostrate cancer, acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement, a decrease in sperm count or testicular size, elevated red blood cell count, blood clots, sleep apneoa, and potential cardiovascular events,

Common Side Effects

Skin and Hair: Oily skin, acne, and accelerated male pattern baldness.

Chest: Swelling, soreness, or tenderness of breast tissue .

Fluid Retention: Mild swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet.

Testicular Changes: Reduced sperm production, which can impact fertility, and shrinking of the testicles.

Serious Risks :-

• Testosterone stimulates red blood cell production. Excessively thickened blood elevation in can increase the risk of blood ccks, or strokes.

• Sleep Apnea: TRT can worsen existing breathing issues during sleep, leading to loud snoring and gasping.

• Prostate Effects: TRT can stimulate the growth of the prostate, potentially worsening lower urinary tract symptoms.

• Liver Injury: While rare, especially with transdermal methods, liver strain or injury can occur.

When to Seek Immediate Medcal Care:

• Signs of a Blood Clot: Pain, warmth, redness, or swelling in the leg.

• Signs of Heart Attack or Stroke: Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden numbness or weakness, or trouble speaking.

• Other Red Flags: Painful or unnaturally prolonged erections, difficulty breathing during sleep, or signs of liver issues (e.g., yellowing of the skin, dark urine).

TRT requires consistent e effects of tesTestosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can cause side effects ranging from mild to serious. Common issues include acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement (gynecomastia), and a decrease in sperm count or testicular size. More severe risks involve elevated red blood cell counts (erythrocytosis), blood clots, sleep apnea, and potential cardiovascular events.

Common Side Effects

• Skin and Hair: Oily skin, acne, and accelerated male pattern baldness.Chest: Swelling, soreness, or tenderness of breast tissue .Fluid Retention: Mild swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet.Testicular Changes: Reduced sperm production, which can impact fertility, and shrinking of the testicles.

TRT requires consistent blood monitoring and supervision by a medical professional—often a urologist or endocrinologist—to adjust dosages and mitigate these risks.

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By *ngel50 OP   TV/TS
4 days ago

Kinross


"I'm due a complete MOT type gp visit..I'm at that age now apparently

If this isn't included I might request, they're doing bloods for lots of other checks anyway.

I can't imagine you need to for the test but was there anything you had to do before to prepare, like for diabetes to be accurate you have not had breakfast or something? Like I say I can't imagine there would be with regards to testosterone.

Looking back could you recognise any other symptoms that at the time didn't jump out, but now could have been related?

Do you do the injections yourself?

Have you noticed any other changes in yourself apart from knowing your bone health has corrected?"

.

.

Replying to your questions;

Your blood should be taken as early as possible ideally first appointment when your surgery opens but definitely Before 10am.

Looking back, I had fatigue, tummy fat, often tired/burnt out, occasionally erectile dysfunction

Because the testosterone injection is 4ml, it is medically considered a "small procedure" and should be injected slowly over a 1 minute time scale into your Gluteal muscles missing your sciatic nerve.

Other changes within myself:

I feel like I have the energy of a 30 year old again, all tummy fat has removed, very strong erections, morning erections, self confidence and I have the energy to keep working hard at my job.

My wife definitely says I have more energy and a more happy life.

.

I note someone has googled and cut and pasted the possible side effects, which you are advised on prior to proceeding.

This is correct and no different from the vast amount of warning side effects for Paracetamol, Aspirin, Co-codamol etc

When you initially start TRT you get full blood tests every 3 months

This is reduced to once every 6 months and after 3 or 4 years of regular results you then only get tested once a year.

All TRT does, is increase your testosterone level to what it should be in a normal person.

It's not like you are injecting steroids at a gym etc

You are fully monitored and PSA is taken at same time as other bloods.

Like above post, you will get people trying to scare you but your doctor is the best person to get advice from

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By *rMagicFingersMan
4 days ago

Bournemouth

I had my testosterone checked by my GP in 2001: 'Serum testosterone level 10.4 nmol/L [9.0 - 29.0]' and it was deemed to be normal.

Following a phone appointment, I'm having it tested again in a couple of days, at 8.50am. Have been asked to fast before the test (nothing after dinner the day before).

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By *aringtogo00TV/TS
4 days ago

glasgow

There are many areas that the op has missed on the reasons for TRT.

No two people have the same symptoms or problems diagnoses cannot be from the internet if you think you have a problem get it checked out better with the Doctor for 15 mins than the Undertaker for 30 mins

Low TRT with age can be treated with various means gels, injections, patches if necessary, all of which will be assessed by a Endocrinologist to see how your blood work looks every 3 months (3 months is 1 blood cell ) .

If you already have testicles that are producing Testosterone but are seen to be below average levels 10 to 30 for your age, they will look at medication to counter a number of symptoms which may or may not be present . Fatigue is one of the biggest symptoms there are many more . Which you GP/Endocrinologist can test you on via a FBC Full Blood Count plus Testosterone and PSA

It is the same if you have to much testosterone can equally cause many problems as age goes on you just have to look at those athletes that have doped heavily over the years.

31 years I’ve been on TRT due to Cancer it is never easy to control due to a number of factors but I’m well versed in the process.

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By *ngel50 OP   TV/TS
3 days ago

Kinross


"There are many areas that the op has missed on the reasons for TRT.

No two people have the same symptoms or problems diagnoses cannot be from the internet if you think you have a problem get it checked out better with the Doctor for 15 mins than the Undertaker for 30 mins

Low TRT with age can be treated with various means gels, injections, patches

.

"

other symptoms included;

• fatigue

• lethargy

• depression

• anxiety

• irritability

• low libido

• erectile dysfunction

• reduced exercise tolerance and strength

• excessive sweating and night sweats

• poor concentration or memory

.Increased tummy fat, love handles,

. Less muscle mass, Loss of muscle mass

I have never heard of anyone being treated by "Patches" on TRT, if anyone has knowledge of this in the treatment for men, please share (not females).

TRT will Fully shutdown your LH - Luteinizing Hormone, and your FSH - Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

TRT does not work with your testicles adding what isn't there, it fully shuts down your LH and FSH so that your testicles stop production, this ensures you get the correct measurements of testosterone from injection or Gel.

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By *tan1252Man
3 days ago

Sudbury


"Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can cause prostrate cancer, acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement, a decrease in sperm count or testicular size, elevated red blood cell count, blood clots, sleep apneoa, and potential cardiovascular events,

Common Side Effects

Skin and Hair: Oily skin, acne, and accelerated male pattern baldness.

Chest: Swelling, soreness, or tenderness of breast tissue .

Fluid Retention: Mild swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet.

Testicular Changes: Reduced sperm production, which can impact fertility, and shrinking of the testicles.

Serious Risks :-

• Testosterone stimulates red blood cell production. Excessively thickened blood elevation in can increase the risk of blood ccks, or strokes.

• Sleep Apnea: TRT can worsen existing breathing issues during sleep, leading to loud snoring and gasping.

• Prostate Effects: TRT can stimulate the growth of the prostate, potentially worsening lower urinary tract symptoms.

• Liver Injury: While rare, especially with transdermal methods, liver strain or injury can occur.

When to Seek Immediate Medcal Care:

• Signs of a Blood Clot: Pain, warmth, redness, or swelling in the leg.

• Signs of Heart Attack or Stroke: Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden numbness or weakness, or trouble speaking.

• Other Red Flags: Painful or unnaturally prolonged erections, difficulty breathing during sleep, or signs of liver issues (e.g., yellowing of the skin, dark urine).

TRT requires consistent e effects of tesTestosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can cause side effects ranging from mild to serious. Common issues include acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement (gynecomastia), and a decrease in sperm count or testicular size. More severe risks involve elevated red blood cell counts (erythrocytosis), blood clots, sleep apnea, and potential cardiovascular events.

Common Side Effects

• Skin and Hair: Oily skin, acne, and accelerated male pattern baldness.Chest: Swelling, soreness, or tenderness of breast tissue .Fluid Retention: Mild swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet.Testicular Changes: Reduced sperm production, which can impact fertility, and shrinking of the testicles.

TRT requires consistent blood monitoring and supervision by a medical professional—often a urologist or endocrinologist—to adjust dosages and mitigate these risks. "

I agree that TRT should be monitored by the prescribing physician (obviously!)

Most of the potential side effects you mention are rare and usually associated with excess doses (ie unsupervised )

There is no evidence whatsoever that TRT causes prostatic cancer; this has been disproven via meta analysis of all the available data.

Suppression of testosterone as a treatment of prostate cancers does not mean that high levels are a causative factor.

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By *tan1252Man
3 days ago

Sudbury


"Wondering how many men on here are on TRT testosterone replacement injections or Gels?

.

.

My reasons for TRT:

I have been on TRT testosterone replacement for 8 years now.

I was put on TRT when my Total Testosterone was 13nmol/L and my FREE testosterone was extremely Low

Low FREE Testosterone causes osteoporosis this is fact and it's called the hidden disease because you are fully unaware until your bones start fracturing.

I was initially on TestoGel manufactured by Besins Healthcare, Once my dosage and bloods had been fully tested and settled, I was taking 2 x 50mg sachet each morning and I remained on TestoGel for over 3 years. And before we get everyone chipping in saying Gels don't work, my total testosterone was a steady 24nmol/L daily.

I then changed to Nebido 1000mg/4 ml solution

It took about 6 - 8 months before my correct dosage gap was found and I am receiving the above injection every 8 weeks

My trough results are as follows;

Total testosterone - 26.7nmol/L

Free - testosterone - 0.414nmol/L

Bioavailable testosterone - 10.4nmol/L

PSA 2.6 (normal for myself)

Haematocrit - 0.48

SHBG - 56.3nmol/L

Albumin - 46g/L

All other bloods in normal range.

My DEXA scans over 6 years went from;

Osteoporosis to Osteopinia to Normal,

Bone density increased roughly by 12.4% every 2 years.

I will be on TRT for my whole life and whilst Testosterone normally starts to drop off in males from age 50 upwards, my testosterone is at present a steady 26.7nmol/L

I have studied all aspects of TRT for the past 7 years and have a full understanding of most processes and the different types of Gels and injections.

I am on TRT via my NHS Practice Doctor but I insist that my yearly bloods are taken by my private Consultant Urological Surgeon and Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer who's qualifications are - BSc (Hons) MBBS, PhD,FRCS (Urol).

My private Consultant who works both NHS and private, checks my bloods then writes to advise my NHS doctor on way ahead.

A am happy to give advice on TRT, but when comments get silly like when people say they have done a pin prick blood test and self blood tests I just ignore these comments

Over all, TRT testosterone replacement has been a life saver for myself, it works for me and has virtually saved my life."

I won’t reiterate everything you say here other than to say thanks and well written.

I’m on a 10 week Nebido cycle which I top up with Testogel (pump) over the last few weeks of the cycle.

I’ll stay on it forever; the results are massive!

Mood/motivation, physical energy and stamina etc as well as the demonstrated protection against dementia and a whole range of conditions. Prevents sarcopenia which is hugely important.

I pay privately; £450 every 10 weeks. Money well spent IMO

Regards

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By *3versMan
3 days ago

glasgow


"There are many areas that the op has missed on the reasons for TRT.

No two people have the same symptoms or problems diagnoses cannot be from the internet if you think you have a problem get it checked out better with the Doctor for 15 mins than the Undertaker for 30 mins

Low TRT with age can be treated with various means gels, injections, patches

.

other symptoms included;

• fatigue

• lethargy

• depression

• anxiety

• irritability

• low libido

• erectile dysfunction

• reduced exercise tolerance and strength

• excessive sweating and night sweats

• poor concentration or memory

.Increased tummy fat, love handles,

. Less muscle mass, Loss of muscle mass

I have never heard of anyone being treated by "Patches" on TRT, if anyone has knowledge of this in the treatment for men, please share (not females).

TRT will Fully shutdown your LH - Luteinizing Hormone, and your FSH - Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

TRT does not work with your testicles adding what isn't there, it fully shuts down your LH and FSH so that your testicles stop production, this ensures you get the correct measurements of testosterone from injection or Gel.

"

Google transdermal testosterone therapy

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By *tan1252Man
3 days ago

Sudbury


"There are many areas that the op has missed on the reasons for TRT.

No two people have the same symptoms or problems diagnoses cannot be from the internet if you think you have a problem get it checked out better with the Doctor for 15 mins than the Undertaker for 30 mins

Low TRT with age can be treated with various means gels, injections, patches

.

other symptoms included;

• fatigue

• lethargy

• depression

• anxiety

• irritability

• low libido

• erectile dysfunction

• reduced exercise tolerance and strength

• excessive sweating and night sweats

• poor concentration or memory

.Increased tummy fat, love handles,

. Less muscle mass, Loss of muscle mass

I have never heard of anyone being treated by "Patches" on TRT, if anyone has knowledge of this in the treatment for men, please share (not females).

TRT will Fully shutdown your LH - Luteinizing Hormone, and your FSH - Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

TRT does not work with your testicles adding what isn't there, it fully shuts down your LH and FSH so that your testicles stop production, this ensures you get the correct measurements of testosterone from injection or Gel.

"

My understanding is that the male therapeutic dosage is too high for it to be administered via a patch.

I think there’s a very low dose patch used for women as a treatment for low libido.

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By *55uk4yngrMan
3 days ago

Chester

Interesting reading, women get HRT but men struggle to get similar help. Why is this?

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By *3versMan
3 days ago

glasgow


"Interesting reading, women get HRT but men struggle to get similar help. Why is this?"

Women go through the menopause which causes a known hormonal change, testosterone change in men is less predictable

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By *tan1252Man
3 days ago

Sudbury


"There are many areas that the op has missed on the reasons for TRT.

No two people have the same symptoms or problems diagnoses cannot be from the internet if you think you have a problem get it checked out better with the Doctor for 15 mins than the Undertaker for 30 mins

Low TRT with age can be treated with various means gels, injections, patches

.

other symptoms included;

• fatigue

• lethargy

• depression

• anxiety

• irritability

• low libido

• erectile dysfunction

• reduced exercise tolerance and strength

• excessive sweating and night sweats

• poor concentration or memory

.Increased tummy fat, love handles,

. Less muscle mass, Loss of muscle mass

I have never heard of anyone being treated by "Patches" on TRT, if anyone has knowledge of this in the treatment for men, please share (not females).

TRT will Fully shutdown your LH - Luteinizing Hormone, and your FSH - Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

TRT does not work with your testicles adding what isn't there, it fully shuts down your LH and FSH so that your testicles stop production, this ensures you get the correct measurements of testosterone from injection or Gel.

"

My understanding is that the male therapeutic dosage is too high for it to be administered via a patch.

I think there’s a very low dose patch used for women as a treatment for low libido.

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By *ngel50 OP   TV/TS
3 days ago

Kinross

Stan, I also suspect that the patch is for females on HRT to prevent osteoporosis

Stan, I also note that you pay £450 every 10 weeks for your injection

I am on the same injection every 8 weeks and I don't need the Gel top up, but I get this on NHS

If you have been on this for years then you should be able to transfer over to the NHS as your FSH and LH produced by your pituitary gland will be close to zero

Feel free to pm me for information on this as it should save you at least £5k per year

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By *ngel50 OP   TV/TS
2 days ago

Kinross


"Interesting reading, women get HRT but men struggle to get similar help. Why is this?

Women go through the menopause which causes a known hormonal change, testosterone change in men is less predictable "

Low Testosterone is the main cause of osteoporosis in both men and women

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