Testosterone

[HereComesTheDawn]

3 hours ago, normlex said:

Thanks for your input on this.  If you learn more please add another post.  I had a failed taper of Lexapro last year and went thru a period of bad wd (currently still stabilizing).  I would like to still taper and I am trying to collect as much data as possible to have a better chance of none to little wd and a successful taper.  

 

There is a ratio of Estradiol to Testosterone that is considered optimum for wellbeing with men.

 

How are you doing your blood screening?

 

I just had these blood work tests done:

• Lutenizing Hormone
• Follicle Stimulating Hormone
• Prolactin
• Total Testosterone
• Sex Hormone Binding Globulin
• Free Testosterone
• Estradiol
• Liver Function Tests
• Lipids, including Cholesterol
• Thyroid Function Tests
• Full Blood Count
• Urea & Electrolytes
• HbA1C
• Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
• Vitamin D
• Zinc
• Vitamin B12
• Folate
• Ferritin

 

 

I'd say I'm moderately versed on the practical side of things in terms of TRT and could maybe help out with the information you need. PM me or post here if there's anything you'd like to know.

 

That "golden ratio" seems to be what a lot of people talk about and yet they all seem to quote a different figure. Your "free testosterone" can also play a big factor on how you feel but it's all so individual. What feels good for you might not agree with me and so on. I'd be happy to let you have a peek at my latest blood results if you like.

 

I'm with a TRT Clinic so I get my tests and supplies straight to my house. Then I just take the test kits to a nurse and she draws my blood and I post it off in a pre-paid pouch. How did you go about getting your current test done? Those tests look just like an annual TRT clinic blood test, which is fairly comprehensive.

 

So when are your results due?

[ChessieCat]

2 hours ago, HereComesTheDawn said:

I'd say I'm moderately versed on the practical side of things in terms of TRT and could maybe help out with the information you need. PM me or post here if there's anything you'd like to know.

 

@HereComesTheDawn @normlex

 

Because it might be dangerous for other members if this information is posted publicly, please do this via PM.

 

HereComesTheDawn - please be careful about what information you provide to Normlex.  What worked for you might not work for another person.  My suggestion would be to only provide general information that can easily be found on the internet or elsewhere.

 

Normlex - I urge you to be cautious about what suggestions you follow and that you also do your own research.

[HereComesTheDawn]

9 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

HereComesTheDawn - please be careful about what information you provide to Normlex.  What worked for you might not work for another person.  My suggestion would be to only provide general information that can easily be found on the internet or elsewhere.

No problem at all. I would never recommend or advise any type of medication or supplements to anyone. I can only speak from my own personal experience.

[normlex]

18 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

 

@HereComesTheDawn @normlex

 

Because it might be dangerous for other members if this information is posted publicly, please do this via PM.

 

HereComesTheDawn - please be careful about what information you provide to Normlex.  What worked for you might not work for another person.  My suggestion would be to only provide general information that can easily be found on the internet or elsewhere.

 

Normlex - I urge you to be cautious about what suggestions you follow and that you also do your own research.

Same here.

[Doloi]

Low testosterone after SSRI abrupt cessation

 

Howdy. After two experiences of serotonin syndrome, I have probably went off of my Lexapro after 12 years at a 35 mg to 40 mg a day dose.

 

I endured a year of 10/10 on the anxiety/panic/dread scale, developed chronic pelvic pain syndrome from the permanent fight or flight posture and even managed to crack several teeth. 5 1/2 weeks in Johns Hopkins psych ward including reinstatement at 10 mg Lexapro and 300 mg of Wellbutrin daily and I am doing very well. Except. Except my testosterone plummeted during my illness. I lost body hair and I lost my libido. It's pretty terrible to have such a problem.

 

Anyone with any experience or knowledge around the question of regaining testosterone production after protracted acute withdrawal, please holler!

 

Edited December 24, 2021 by ChessieCat
added topic title before merging with existing topic

[Doloi]

On 5/21/2017 at 12:36 AM, Rob66 said:

Not sure if this has been asked before. Did a search but didn't find what I'm asking. It's difficult to find any definitive proof that ssri's cause hormone disruption. I was tested for low testosterone 3 different times and got low results every time. My doctor admits that my testosterone is low for my age but have no explanation for it other than the fact I'm on zoloft. Unless I was tested before starting zoloft, there is no way of knowing this is the cause. Anybody ever wonder this as well?

Hi Rob66 - 100%. That is my exact question. Right when my testosterone started to plummet, I started to get permanently erect nipples as a man. It's not itchy or irritating or aroused, but it is a pretty weird state to always be in. And it suggests to me a hormone issue, beyond just the low testosterone. I am seeing a urologist and am curious about seeing an endocrinologist. I want to try some herbal stuff before going on testosterone cream or injection. I need to do strength training, but I am currently nursing a left arm with severe tendinitis. Any thoughts from your experience a very welcome! Solidarity. 

[normlex]

It's hard to find much proof in this area.  Only found 1 study of a limited scope and size.  It seemed to suggest a causation to me.  Imo, real causation is impossible since it would involve starting and stopping an SSRI and knowing the blood work before and after.  Found several facebook groups where hormone affects are asked about and ppl are taking an SSRI and having hormone issues, but still not real proof it would seem to me.  Please feel free to prove me wrong.  There are other variables, i.e. age, overall health, medication history, etc.  About the only way to prove it in your situation, would be to taper.  You may or may not want to do that, and be very careful how you taper.  I've seen multiple endo's and they just look at this low T from a broad viewpoint.  I have asked them for proof and received none.  Treating low T is best with a competent Men's Health dr., imo.  Even that way it is not assured of having symptom relief.  Natural remedies have limited effect imo.  Your can also join a facebook group devoted to T.

 

Let me know how you make out.

[curiousnootropics]

If you have low testosterone and go on TRT for it. Can you stop it in time when levels are normal? Thoughts?

[normlex]

What do you mean 'normal'?  There are various ranges for what is considered 'normal' depending on which entity/organization you come across (age among other variables can factor into what an 'acceptable' range is).  Be careful if you are considering going on TRT and you are in withdrawal/tapering.  It can be disastrous and lead to many months of destabilization and life-altering consequences.  What is your current TT and TF?  Is that drug history you list under your post a complete listing?  Do you have low-T symptoms?  What else is going on in your life both currently and in the past (all of which can effect what happens to you now and in the future)?  The interplay between the drugs you take and have taken, your current and past life, your body, and your T-levels is quite complicated and many times the outcome is unpredictable when changes are made.  Always take careful consideration and do as much reading as you can.