Dopamine, Libido, and Testosterone - a Question

I have seen them improve libido several times. Interestingly, from my own experience I've seen generic modafinil work better than brand name provigil...though I'm sure it's likely coincidental and/or circumstantial specific to the cases I've seen. The guys who experience better libido with those meds may be due to dopamine enhancement (blocks re-uptake) or perhaps simply due to better energy from the stimulant effect. Libido is so multifactorial that it's a difficult nut to crack for some. Having a partner with a healthy libido goes a long way too.

From my understanding that dopamine plays a huge role in libido, for example any D2/D3 agonists like parkinson's drugs are known to possibly cause hypersexuality.

Amphetamines especially AFAIK, is it possible that long term medical use of amphetamines can cause enough downregulation to permanently stunt libido? My understanding is that the dopamine system is fairly robust, and recovers easily?

Random pharmacologic question: wikipedia lists dopamine receptors as functioning through gene transcription, as does the androgen receptor, yet dopamine ligands will elicit a noticable effect nearly immediately while testosterone does not. So I'm probably massively misunderstanding this complex process of gene regulation, but why does testosterone not?
 

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Predict estradiol, DHT, and free testosterone levels based on total testosterone

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This tool provides predictions based on statistical models and should NOT replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your TRT protocol.

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Understanding Your Hormones

Estradiol (E2)

A form of estrogen produced from testosterone. Important for bone health, mood, and libido. Too high can cause side effects; too low can affect well-being.

DHT

Dihydrotestosterone is a potent androgen derived from testosterone. Affects hair growth, prostate health, and masculinization effects.

Free Testosterone

The biologically active form of testosterone not bound to proteins. Directly available for cellular uptake and biological effects.

Scientific Reference

Lakshman KM, Kaplan B, Travison TG, Basaria S, Knapp PE, Singh AB, LaValley MP, Mazer NA, Bhasin S. The effects of injected testosterone dose and age on the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in young and older men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Aug;95(8):3955-64.

DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0102 | PMID: 20534765 | PMCID: PMC2913038

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