TRT questions - Low SHBG and Anastrazole use

[phalloguy100]

Hi guys, I have couple of questions about my TRT protocol.

1) In my last labs, SHBG came back low (1 unit below normal range). What effect does that have on things like libido, EQ, etc.? Is it necessary to raise it?

2) Unrelated to #1... from time to time my estradiol has been high. Doctor said to take 0.125 anastrazole (arimidex) 3x per week but ONLY when I saw symptoms of high E2. What symptoms specifically should I be looking out for?

Of note, after this lab test, I was switched from topical cream to T cyp injections 3x week (40mg), and increased hcg from 2x to 3x a week (500iu). Topical just wasn't working consistently anymore... and neither was Androgel which I was on before that.

Thanks!

 

[Systemlord]

1) In my last labs, SHBG came back low (1 unit below normal range). What effect does that have on things like libido, EQ, etc.? Is it necessary to raise it?

I wouldn't worry about something out of your control, it's a waste of time. It's low and it's going to remain where it is, give or take a few points.

2) Unrelated to #1... from time to time my estradiol has been high. Doctor said to take 0.125 anastrazole (arimidex) 3x per week but ONLY when I saw symptoms of high E2. What symptoms specifically should I be looking out for?

Many of the so-called estrogen symptoms are not estrogen symptoms.

 

[phalloguy100]

Thanks. The anastrazole was prescribed because I was worried about increased nipple size. But other than that, I really don't know how to tell if my E2 is truly high enough to start taking anastrazole... The doctor mentioned things like acne, water retention and erection problems. I do get a bit of acne on the forehead, but nothing worrisome. No idea what water retention feels like. Already had erection problems anyway... which is why I started cialis. (Though restarting hcg also helped).