Does exogenous testosterone, no matter the dose completely shut down the natural production of testosterone. I was talking to a physician about this at one time and he said no it doesn't. But that is in contrast to a number of articles I've come across. If a person (say age 53) self prescribes with the intent of "topping up" testosterone levels to a more youthful state, would a low dose regime do more harm than good?
Does exogenous testosterone, no matter the dose completely shut down the natural production of testosterone.
The use of exogenous testosterone in the doses needed in order to replace physiological levels will result in the shutdown of the hpta.
When it comes to trt there are numerous forms such as pellets, oral, patch, transdermal gels/creams, buccal, intranasal, injections (subcutaneous/intramuscular).
Other than intranasal (Natesto) all other forms of replacement therapy will result in the shutdown of the hpta.
I was talking to a physician about this at one time and he said no it doesn't.
Out to lunch!
If a person (say age 53) self prescribes with the intent of "topping up" testosterone levels to a more youthful state, would a low dose regime do more harm than good?
Would not recommend that someone self prescribes as this should be supervised by an experienced physician.
The goal of trt is to replace physiological levels of testosterone through the use of exogenous testosterone in order to achieve a healthy TT/FT level which will result in the relief/improvement of low-t symptoms while at the same time minimizing/avoiding any potential side-effects (cosmetic/overall health) while keeping blood markers healthy long-term.
Blood work is critical!
Let alone one who chooses to take the short cut route of self treating using UGL gear is taking a chance as it can be unsterile, under-dose, over-dosed, a completely different compound other than testosterone or bunk!
There would be no harm in replacing physiological levels.
Healthy testosterone levels and more importantly its metabolites DHT/estradiol are needed in order to experience the full spectrum of beneficial effects on mood/energy/libido/erectile function/recovery, metabolism, cardiovascular health, bone health, immune system, healthy body composition (increased muscle and fat loss).
Common and expected side-effects would be shut-down of the hpta, testicular atrophy, reduced ejaculate volume, and reduced fertility which can be avoided with the use of low dose hCG although the hpta will still be shutdown.
Increased RBCs/hemoglobin/hematocrit is a given and the form of replacement used, serum T levels achieved, age of the patient, the dose T used/protocol will have a big impact which can be managed through blood donations or maintaining descent T levels (not too high).
Increased oily skin/acne (genetically prone), increased body/facial hair (common), male pattern baldness (genetically prone), gynecomastia (genetically prone), water retention (common).