What drives E2 and HCT - Peaks vs Troughs?

S1W

Well-Known Member
I've seen it mentioned from time to time that that T level peaks have the strongest affect on E2 and that T level troughs have the strongest affect on HCT. For example, if you want to lower E2, reduce the spikes in your T levels, which is often accomplished by more frequent injections. If you want to lower HCT, you would need to reduce your overall T dose so that your trough sits lower.

Do any of you have any opinions or experiences with this?

Common sense would lead me to believe that the overall average level of T within a dosage cycle would be what drives both, but I've seen this mentioned enough that I thought it would be interesting to hear about other experiences.
 
It appears that may be true for some members, but not for everyone. Some still struggle with estrogen and HCT even with daily injections.
 

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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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