Testosterone dropped after switching to injections

Dave29

New Member
Switched to shots after 2.5yrs of compounded test cream (mid 400's highest test achieved) and my testosterone level went down...had lab work done after 1 week on shots per endo. Did two 60mg shots spaced 3.5 days apart done sub q in abdomen with a 27ga 1/2 needle. Was taking 200mgs compounded cream daily prior to shots.
Testosterone went from 2.90 ng/mL on cream to 1.70 ng/mL with shots (1.68 - 7.46 ng/mL scale). This scale is different - not sure how to convert it to the 240-950 scale? Feeling lousy and tired. I'm 44, 6'2 270lbs athletic build.

Why would my testosterone level drop with shots? Barely registered with 120mgs.
 
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Switched to shots from compounded cream and my testosterone level went down...had lab work done after 1 week on shots per endo. Did two 60mg shots spaced 3.5 days apart done sub q in abdomen with a 27ga 1/2 needle. Was taking 200mgs compounded cream daily prior to shots.
Went from Testosterone 2.90 ng/mL on cream to 1.70 ng/mL with shots (1.68 - 7.46 ng/mL). This scale is different - not sure how to convert it to the 350-1050 scale? Feeling lousy and tired. I'm 44, 6'2 270lbs athletic build.

Why would my testosterone level drop with shots? Barely registered with 120mgs.

Your doctor thinks that two injections, one week's time on a new protocol, will produce a stable, serum level?? He's uninformed (that's a polite way of putting it). It will take four to six weeks for your protocol change to be reflected in your lab work. During this time you will feel a range of things, including lousy. You need to be patient.
 
You're starting a new protocol, with an entirely different delivery system. Patience is key. Even at the four to six weeks it is likely that modifications may be required to balance things off. The basic protocol you're on is a good place to start - has HCG been prescribed?
 
Unfortunately my endo would not prescribe hcg. He told me it's one or the other not both. I'm going to obtain hcg from reliablerx on my own. What's a good starting dose for hcg? Can I inject sub q along with my test?
 
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Unfortunately my endo would not prescribe hcg. He told me it's one or the other not both. I'm going to obtain hcg from reliablerx on my own. What's a good starting dose for hcg? Can I inject sub q along with my test?
HCG dosing varies greatly. I'm happy on 250/twice weekly (I inject testosterone, 16mg, every morning).

Frankly, your doctor is remarkably uninformed on everything from when to test serum levels to HCG use. That should be a warning sign for you.
 

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⚠️ 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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