On TRT - How Often Do I Test?

[DanL]

Hi Guys, I'm curious on 'how often/frequent' should one run tests while on TRT? Just to make sure the prostate is not enlarging like a cantaloup, and everything is kept in line

 

[seaexplorer]

Don't you have a capable Dr overseeing your protocol?

 

[CoastWatcher]

How long have you been on TRT? Are you happy with your protocol - you feel good and are pleased with your most recent test results?

My doctor tests quarterly during the first year and then on an every six month basis if all is well. If their are side effects, hematocrit and hemoglobin are climbing, estradiol is an issue, or the psa value is problematic, then you would test more frequently.

What were you suggested to do?

 

[johnt]

I started TRT several weeks ago. Doctor said follow-up blood work after 12 weeks.

 

[Nelson Vergel]

You should test at baseline (before starting), 6-8 weeks after starting, week 12 (if you made a dose adjustment or added a new product at week 6 or 8), and then every 6 months.

Baseline (Basic):
https://www.discountedlabs.com/pre-trt-male-hormone-wellness-panel

Week 6 or 8 and beyond (you can drop some blood tests if they are Ok at first follow up to save money). You could also add DHT if libido is not improving.
https://www.discountedlabs.com/trt-male-hormone-wellness-follow-up-panel-option

Here are values to try to achieve:

Testosterone replacement therapy- Target Blood Test Limits


Hematocrit under 53

PSA under 3 (4 is max since doctors will not prescribe TRT at this number)

Estradiol (ultrasensitive) between 20-50 pg/mL

Blood pressure under 135/85

Estimated Glomerular (eGFR) (kidney function) over 60

Liver enzymes not elevated over 20 percent of top value of reference range

TSH under 2.5

Total Testosterone over 500 ng/dL

Free Testosterone equal or above 2 percent of total

If donating blood to bring hematocrit down, ferritin never under 30 ng/mL or micrograms/liter

Free T3 (if hypothyroid and on treatment) in the upper quartile of range. (depending on range it can be 3.7- 4.2 pg/mL)


HDL over 40 mg/dL

 

[Vince]

When I first started trt I tested 12 weeks after starting my protocol. Now I test every 6 months, if one is not feeling right, you probably should test more often.