Starting protocol for high SHBG

BCD19800

New Member
Good afternoon,

After doing more research and reviewing the responses to my other thread, I’ve decided to schedule an appointment with Defy to get a consultation and potentially start a TRT protocol to treat my low free testosterone. I looked back at my lab history over the past 2 years and I have about 9 labs where’re my %free testosterone has hovered between 1.33-1.38 and I’ve had 2 labs go as low as 1.1-1.2%. My SHBG has mostly averaged around 71. Most of my symptoms such as depression, anxiety, energy have been addressed with my current thyroid protocol but I’m dealing with a fairly low labido, low drive, motivation, no sense of well being, and poor recovery from physical activity. I could potentially live with these symptoms but would prefer to feel normal again so I would like to explore TRT as a potential option.

I’m trying to understand what a good starting protocol would potentially be. I’ve read once a week injections but have also seen some users go 2x per week. Also, do I need Hcg? I don’t want anymore children so I’m assuming I should not use HCG. Estrogen is a concern for me since I have preexisting gynecomastia from puberty. What testosterone dose should I be targeting? I’m assuming I will need a high dose such as 200 per week, right?

Also, any experience/feedback with Defy would be appreciated. Any specific physician or provider? Thanks in advance.
 
I’d start at once a week, and lower than 200mg. More like 100-125. Better to start too low than too high. You can always increase if needed.
 
My SHBG prior to TRT was 75. On TRT it is around 65. I started with a every 3.5 day protocol at 80mg per injection.

Had high E2 issues with that protocol.

I am now on 40mg EOD injections. Much better results and how I feel.

Everyone is different. You will need to find what works for you.
 
My SHBG prior to TRT was 75. On TRT it is around 65. I started with a every 3.5 day protocol at 80mg per injection.

Had high E2 issues with that protocol.

I am now on 40mg EOD injections. Much better results and how I feel.

Everyone is different. You will need to find what works for you.

Did you take an AI?
 
Agree with both of these guys. Always start on the low side and work your way up if needed. My SHBG was 51 pre TRT. I am currently using 40mg EOD as well. So about 140mg per week. At that dose my free T is right at the top of the range. Since your SHBG is even higher than mine, I think 140mg per week is a good place to start. And just split that up into multiple injections per week. An EOD protocol works very well for me. Start off with just testosterone. No ai or HCG, and get labs done in 6 weeks and see how you feel.

But obviously it all depends on what the doctor at Defy wants to do,
 

hCG Mixing Calculator

HCG Mixing Protocol Calculator

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

Beyond Testosterone Podcast

Online statistics

Members online
7
Guests online
173
Total visitors
180

Latest posts

Back
Top