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I expect that's getting to be more like two standard deviations. However, I'd give an allowance of an extra 10-20% to compensate for a lack of diurnal variation. That is, if the average healthy young guy makes 6.5 mg of testosterone daily, then that average free testosterone of 14-15 ng/dL refers to the morning peak. The evening trough could easily be 20-40% lower. If we assume peak testosterone is the important parameter then a guy on TRT using relatively frequent injections of a longer testosterone ester would need to use a little more testosterone to reach the peak value, because it's also close to his average value, given that he has little fluctuation in serum testosterone. In the case of the exactly average guy it means his free testosterone on TRT is 14-15 ng/dL all the time; it doesn't decline as the day goes on. Maintaining the level all day then requires a bit more testosterone than the 6.5 mg per day.


Having argued that free testosterone is proportional to production rate or dose rate, I agree with this logic—subject to the adjustment for lack of serum variation when needed.


TRT Hormone Predictor Widget

TRT Hormone Predictor

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.

ℹ️ Input Parameters

Normal range: 300-1000 ng/dL

Predicted Hormone Levels

Enter your total testosterone value to see predictions

Results will appear here after calculation

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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