Are you feeling fatigued, experiencing hair loss, or struggling with an unexplained weakness? It might be time to consider a ferritin blood test. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body, and measuring its levels can provide valuable insights into your overall health. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about the ferritin blood test. From understanding its purpose and what it measures to when you should consider getting the test done, we've got you covered. We'll also discuss how to prepare for the test, what to expect during and after the test, and how to interpret the results. Additionally, we'll explore the causes of both low and high ferritin levels and recommend other tests that may be beneficial for your health. Don't wait any longer - take control of your health by learning more about the ferritin blood test today! Ferritin Test Quick Guide The ferritin blood test is a crucial diagnostic tool used to measure the levels of ferritin, a protein that stores iron, in your blood. By analyzing a blood sample taken from a vein, healthcare professionals can determine your ferritin level. This test is particularly important because abnormal ferritin levels can indicate various health conditions, such as iron deficiency, liver disease, or anemia. Interpreting your ferritin test results accurately can aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of these conditions. About the Test The ferritin blood test is an important diagnostic tool used to assess iron levels in the body. It measures the level of ferritin, a protein that stores iron, in your blood. This test is used to diagnose conditions such as iron deficiency or iron overload, which can have significant health implications. It involves taking a blood sample, typically from a vein, and measuring the amount of ferritin present. Results are given as a numerical value, with normal ranges varying based on factors like age and gender. Following any pre-test instructions is crucial for accurate results. Purpose of the Test The purpose of the ferritin blood test is to measure the levels of ferritin, a protein responsible for storing iron in the body. This test is commonly used to help diagnose or monitor conditions related to iron deficiency or iron overload. Iron deficiency can result in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, while iron overload may indicate conditions such as hemochromatosis. By assessing ferritin levels, healthcare providers can evaluate a person's iron stores and determine if further investigation or treatment is necessary. The test involves extracting a small blood sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days. What Does the Test Measure? The ferritin blood test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein responsible for storing iron and regulating iron levels in the body. It is used to diagnose conditions related to iron deficiency or overload, helping determine if there is an imbalance of iron in your system. When Should I Get This Test? Consider getting a ferritin blood test if you have symptoms of iron deficiency or iron overload, a family history of iron-related conditions, are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or have chronic conditions that affect iron absorption. Your doctor can provide personalized advice. Taking a Ferritin Test Determining your iron levels is crucial in maintaining optimal health. The ferritin blood test, which measures the levels of ferritin in your blood, plays a key role in this process. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron and regulates its levels in the body. By diagnosing conditions related to iron deficiency or iron overload, this test can help assess whether you have an adequate amount of iron in your body. If you're experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or have a family history of iron-related conditions, it's important to consider getting a ferritin blood test. This test is also recommended for monitoring iron levels during pregnancy or for individuals with chronic conditions that affect iron absorption or utilization. Before the Test Before undergoing a ferritin blood test, it is crucial to carefully follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. These instructions may include fasting or refraining from specific medications. For patients taking high doses of biotin (greater than 5 mg/day), no sample should be taken until at least eight hours after the last biotin administration. The procedure for the test involves drawing a blood sample from a vein in your arm, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. By measuring the levels of ferritin, a protein responsible for storing iron in the body, this test can help determine whether you have an insufficient or excessive amount of iron. Such indications can be linked to various medical conditions or deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis. During the Test It is vital to adhere to specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider before the Ferritin Test, which is used to measure the levels of ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the body. To ensure accurate results, you may need to fast for a certain period of time. During the test, a healthcare professional will obtain a small blood sample from your arm using a needle. This sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. Following the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider, such as avoiding certain medications or activities prior to the test, is of the utmost importance. After the Test Upon completion of the ferritin blood test, it is advisable to wait for a few days to receive the results from the lab. Once you have received the results, it is crucial to have a discussion with your healthcare provider to analyze and interpret them. If your ferritin levels are found to be low, it could indicate iron deficiency anemia, which might necessitate additional tests to identify the root cause. Conversely, if your ferritin levels are high, it may be indicative of conditions such as hemochromatosis or liver disease. Depending on your specific ferritin levels and any preexisting conditions, your healthcare provider will recommend appropriate treatment options and interventions. Ferritin Test Results A ferritin blood test measures the levels of ferritin in the blood, which is a protein responsible for storing iron in the body. The results of this test can provide valuable information about your iron level. Normal ferritin levels can vary based on factors such as age and gender. If your ferritin levels are high, it could indicate iron overload, liver disease, or hemochromatosis. Conversely, low ferritin levels may be indicative of iron deficiency anemia. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to obtain an accurate interpretation of your ferritin test results and determine the next steps for your health care. Receiving Test Results After undergoing a ferritin blood test, your healthcare provider will provide you with the test results. These results can reveal the amount of iron stored in your body, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of your health. Interpreting these results is crucial, as normal ferritin levels can vary depending on age, sex, and overall well-being. If your ferritin levels are lower than the normal range, it may indicate iron deficiency anemia or other underlying health issues that require attention. Conversely, higher-than-normal ferritin levels could suggest iron overload or the presence of conditions such as liver disease or hemochromatosis. Make sure to discuss the results and any concerns with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate course of action. Interpreting Test Results Interpreting the results of a ferritin blood test helps determine the amount of iron stored in your body. Normal ferritin levels can vary depending on age, gender, and other factors, so it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper interpretation. Low ferritin levels can suggest iron deficiency, anemia, or other underlying health conditions. On the other hand, high ferritin levels may indicate iron overload, liver disease, or hemochromatosis. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures accurate analysis and appropriate treatment recommendations. What is a Ferritin Blood Test? A Ferritin Blood Test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the body. This test is used to diagnose conditions related to iron deficiency or overload. It is often conducted alongside other blood tests to evaluate overall iron levels and status. What is it Used For? The ferritin blood test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein that stores iron, in your blood. It is used to diagnose iron deficiency or overload, monitor conditions like anemia and liver diseases, and guide treatment decisions based on abnormal iron levels. Why do I need a ferritin blood test? A ferritin blood test is necessary to measure the amount of ferritin in your blood, which indicates your iron stores. This test is helpful in evaluating iron deficiency or excess, monitoring conditions like anemia or liver disease that affect iron metabolism, and assessing symptoms like fatigue or joint pain. Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test? For a basic ferritin blood test, typically no special preparation is needed. However, it's important to follow any instructions given by your healthcare provider. They may advise you to avoid certain medications or supplements prior to the test. If you are taking high doses of biotin (greater than 5 mg/day), no sample should be taken until at least eight hours after the last biotin administration. If you have any concerns or queries, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider beforehand. What do the results mean? The results of ferritin levels in a blood test provide information about the amount of iron stored in your body. Low levels may indicate iron deficiency anemia, while high levels can signal conditions like hemochromatosis or liver disease. It's important to have a healthcare professional interpret the results based on your specific situation. Causes of Low Ferritin Blood Levels Low ferritin levels in a blood test can be attributed to several factors. The most common cause is iron deficiency, which can occur due to inadequate iron intake or absorption. Chronic blood loss, such as heavy menstrual periods or gastrointestinal bleeding, can also lead to low ferritin levels. Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and chronic kidney disease can cause low ferritin levels due to increased iron storage in immune cells. Certain medical treatments, like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and certain medications, can affect ferritin levels. Other health conditions, such as hypothyroidism, liver disease, and malnutrition, can also result in low ferritin levels. Rare genetic disorders like hemochromatosis or atransferrinemia can cause abnormal ferritin levels as well. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your low ferritin levels and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Testosterone replacement therapy can lead to a decrease in ferritin levels due to various mechanisms. Studies have shown that testosterone therapy increases hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, while not significantly affecting iron, iron saturation, or iron binding capacity. However, ferritin concentrations tend to decrease with testosterone replacement therapy, indicating increased utilization of iron[1]. Research has also demonstrated an inverse correlation between serum ferritin levels and sex hormones like total testosterone and free testosterone[2]. Furthermore, testosterone has been found to regulate ferritin synthesis directly, suggesting that decreased testosterone levels may result in higher serum ferritin levels[3]. To sum up, the drop in ferritin levels caused by testosterone replacement therapy is due to more iron being used, changes in iron-related parameters, and the way testosterone controls the production of ferritin. This relationship underscores the complex interplay between testosterone levels and iron metabolism in the body. Causes of High Ferritin Blood Levels High ferritin levels in a blood test can be indicative of several underlying conditions. Liver disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, can cause an increase in ferritin levels. Hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes excessive iron absorption, can result in high ferritin levels. Certain types of cancer, like leukemia or lymphoma, can contribute to elevated ferritin levels. Iron overload from excessive iron supplementation or transfusions can lead to increased ferritin levels as well. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Elevated ferritin levels may also be associated with iron overload, iron-deficiency anemia, or hyperthyroidism. Other possible causes include alcohol abuse, inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or Still's disease, and certain medications. If you experience symptoms like fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, joint pain, or heart problems, it's important to get your ferritin level checked. Other Recommended Tests In addition to the ferritin blood test, it is important to consider other recommended tests that can provide valuable insights into your health. These tests can offer further understanding of potential underlying conditions or give an overall assessment of specific organ function. Along with the ferritin blood test, you may also consider the hemoglobin test, iron panel, complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, and vitamin B12 and folate tests. These tests offer information on different aspects of your health, including anemia, iron levels, liver function, and vitamin deficiencies. Consulting with your healthcare provider can help determine which additional tests may be beneficial for you. Anemia Test An anemia test is essential to diagnose the cause of a low red blood cell count or low hemoglobin levels, which are indicators of anemia. When a ferritin blood test shows low levels, additional tests are recommended to identify the underlying cause. These tests measure various components, including red blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, and markers of iron deficiency or vitamin deficiencies. For comprehensive anemia testing, you should fast for 12 hours before collection of the specimen, and if you are taking biotin supplements, you should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample. Accurate diagnosis assists healthcare providers in determining the specific cause of anemia and enables them to offer personalized treatment options. Women's Health Test The Women's Health Test plays a crucial role in evaluating the overall health of women. Along with the ferritin blood test, it is essential to consider other recommended tests to comprehensively assess women's health. These tests provide insights into hormone levels, reproductive health, and the screening of various diseases like cervical cancer, breast cancer, and osteoporosis. By engaging in discussions about individual health concerns and risk factors with healthcare providers, women can make informed decisions about which tests are most suitable for them, enabling them to prioritize their well-being. Standard Thyroid Test The standard thyroid test is a crucial companion to the ferritin blood test, as thyroid disorders can disrupt iron absorption and metabolism, resulting in diminished ferritin levels. Through this test, healthcare providers measure the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and sometimes triiodothyronine (T3). If there are any irregularities detected in the thyroid test results, additional tests may be required to identify the root cause of low ferritin levels. To ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is vital to communicate any concerns or symptoms to your healthcare provider. Fatigue Test Persistent tiredness and fatigue can be symptoms of underlying health issues such as iron deficiency, anemia, or thyroid disorders. To determine the cause of your fatigue, a fatigue test may be recommended. This test involves blood work to check for deficiencies in iron, vitamins, or other nutrients, as well as a complete blood count (CBC), thyroid function tests, and tests for liver or kidney function. By identifying any deficiencies, abnormalities, or underlying health conditions, the fatigue test can help guide further treatment or interventions to address your fatigue and improve your overall health. How to Buy an Affordable Ferritin Test on DiscountedLabs.com? To buy an affordable Ferritin test on DiscountedLabs.com, simply visit their website and use the search bar to find the Ferritin blood test. Add it to your cart, proceed to checkout, and enter any applicable discount codes to save money on your purchase.   Conclusion In conclusion, understanding your ferritin levels is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Whether you're experiencing symptoms like fatigue or suspect an underlying condition, a ferritin blood test can provide valuable insights into your iron stores. By getting tested and interpreting the results with the help of a healthcare professional, you can take appropriate steps to address any deficiencies or imbalances. At DiscountedLabs.com, we offer affordable ferritin tests that are convenient and reliable. Take control of your health by ordering your ferritin test today and start prioritizing your well-being. Order your discounted ferritin blood test now at DiscountedLabs.com   Sources [1] Effect of Testosterone on Hepcidin, Ferroportin, Ferritin and Iron Binding Capacity in Patients with Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism and Type 2 Diabetes - NCBI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5065401/  [2] The Association between the Levels of Serum Ferritin and Sex Hormones in a Large Scale of Chinese Male Population - PMC - NCBI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3795691/  [3] Serum Ferritin Is Inversely Correlated with Testosterone in Boys and Young Male Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study in Taiwan | PLOS ONE https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0144238  [4] Ferritin Test - Discounted Labs https://www.discountedlabs.com/ferritin  [5] Testosterone Induces Erythrocytosis via Increased Erythropoietin and Suppressed Hepcidin: Evidence for a New Erythropoietin/Hemoglobin Set Point - Oxford Academic https://academic.oup.com/biomedgerontology/article/69/6/725/527925 

How to Safely Use PCT After TRT: Stopping Testosterone Replacement Therapy Table of Contents What is Post Cycle Therapy PCT? Why Do Men Stop TRT? Common reasons a man may need to discontinue TRT include: Normalizing Natural Testosterone After Stopping TRT PCT Treatments to Jump Start Natural Testosterone and Sperm Production How to Know if Your PCT Worked? Buy Discounted Lab's Post-PCT Panel  References: There is a common phrase most men will hear when they consider testosterone replacement therapy (TRT); it may be something they hear from friends or often what they read online: "TRT is for life." There is an element of truth to this statement: when a man has low testosterone, in order to treat it and maintain healthy or optimal levels, he will always need TRT to achieve it. However, saying "it's for life" remains a somewhat inaccurate statement, and this is where we enter into the realm of what is commonly referred to as Post Cycle Therapy or PCT. TRT and anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) can lead to dysfunction in HPTA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis). Supplemental testosterone can inhibit the release of the body's own testosterone production through negative feedback inhibition on LH levels. This feedback inhibition also results in the suppression of FSH levels, leading to the suppression of sperm production (spermatogenesis). During recent years a large surge in testosterone prescriptions and TRT clinics has unfortunately led to many men who have been misdiagnosed with low testosterone yet placed on TRT when it may not have been needed in the first place. If you are one of these men and you are considering discontinuing testosterone treatments, some protocols can help restore your hormone axis. You do not want to stop testosterone "cold turkey," which will lead to unnecessary symptoms that could last for many months. Understanding TRT and Its Impact on the Body Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can be a game-changer for men with low testosterone levels, but it's crucial to understand how it impacts the body. TRT involves introducing exogenous testosterone into the body, which can disrupt the natural hormone production process. To grasp the full picture, we need to explore the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA) and how TRT affects it. The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis and TRT The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA) is a sophisticated system that regulates testosterone production. It starts with the hypothalamus, which produces Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH). This hormone signals the pituitary gland to release Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). LH and FSH then stimulate the testes to produce testosterone. When you undergo Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), this delicate balance can be disrupted. The introduction of exogenous testosterone can suppress the body's natural production of LH and FSH, leading to a decrease in the body's ability to produce testosterone on its own. Impact of TRT on Natural Testosterone Production The impact of TRT on natural testosterone production can be significant. When exogenous testosterone is introduced, it can lead to a suppression of LH and FSH, which are crucial for natural testosterone production. This suppression can result in various symptoms, such as low libido, fatigue, and decreased muscle mass. Over time, prolonged use of TRT can lead to hypogonadism, a condition where the testes are unable to produce sufficient testosterone. This is why understanding the effects of TRT on natural hormone production is essential for anyone considering or currently undergoing TRT. What is Post Cycle Therapy PCT? PCT is a treatment plan after discontinuing anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS). It is a phrase most commonly associated with what we might call "recreational steroid users" (RSU), such as bodybuilders: people who do not need steroid hormones like testosterone for medical reasons but use them for muscular competition advantage. In such cases, the individual will supplement with AAS for a set period of time, known as a steroid cycle, and then discontinue use. As his use of AAS shut down his natural testosterone production, just as it does with TRT, he will often implement a PCT plan for natural production to restart. Such plans will include Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) or other items, such as the peptide HCG. The goal for the RSU, as eluded to prior, is to regain his natural production of testosterone as quickly and efficiently as possible. There is no guarantee this will work. There is no guarantee he will reach his previous levels before AAS use, although perhaps levels that accurate enough. Then we have the TRT patient; such an individual had low testosterone levels before he began administering exogenous testosterone. The use of testosterone, just as it did with the RSU, will stop his natural production. This is a factor that bothers many men, but let us keep in mind a very significant one: you already had low levels, your body was not able to produce enough, to begin with, and was not going to be able to, or you wouldn't be on TRT. Nonetheless, there are reasons some men may find they need to discontinue use, and when that occurs, a PCT plan may be in order. Such a plan will not address his primary issue, low testosterone, but the goal here is to get at least some natural production back online. Why Do Men Stop Testosterone Replacement Therapy? Common reasons a man may need to discontinue TRT include: Need for Fertility TRT Cost TRT Side Effects or Health Issues Of the three potential reasons to stop TRT, fertility is the overwhelming reason for most men. Along with suppressing natural testosterone production, TRT can also have a negative impact on sperm production. There was a time in history not that long ago when it was thought exogenous testosterone would be touted as a male contraceptive. This idea died out when many men using testosterone found they were still able to impregnate a female. While many men on testosterone were found to be severely lacking in this department, it wasn't enough or significant enough to market the hormone as an actual contraceptive. The other common reasons for discontinuing TRT are cost and side effects. These are the least common reasons in comparison to fertility needs or desires, but both are still possible. We all go through points in life where money can get a little tight; loss of a job, unexpected expenses – whatever the reason, if you find you need to stop, considering a PCT plan with your physician will make the transition easier. You're still going to have low testosterone levels in the end – remember, you already had them, or you wouldn't have started TRT in the first place – but you'll hopefully be in a better position than you would be without, and in time, when your situation improves, you'll be able to jump back on your TRT plan. The same may hold true for the individual who has side effect issues. This will be the least common reason for discontinuation of TRT but certainly within the realm of possibility. You could be one of the rare individuals who cannot control his hematocrit even with regular therapeutic phlebotomy. You could be someone that has other health concerns and, for whatever reason, need to discontinue use until you figure out what's going on with your body. Hormonal imbalances, such as elevated estrogen levels, can also occur when stopping TRT, leading to conditions like gynecomastia. As was with the individual who was experiencing income issues, a PCT plan may be in order. Preparing for TRT Discontinuation Deciding to discontinue TRT is a significant step and should be approached with caution. One of the most critical aspects of stopping TRT safely is to do so under the guidance of a medical professional. Abruptly stopping TRT can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and a dramatic drop in testosterone levels, which can be detrimental to your health. Gradual Tapering Under Medical Supervision When it comes to discontinuing TRT, gradual tapering is the safest approach. This process involves slowly reducing the dosage and frequency of testosterone administration to allow the body to adjust and begin producing testosterone naturally again. A healthcare provider can create a personalized tapering schedule based on factors such as the dosage and duration of your TRT use. This might involve reducing the amount of testosterone you inject or apply through gels over a set period. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial during this time to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your tapering plan. This careful and monitored approach helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and supports the body's natural transition back to producing testosterone on its own. By understanding the impact of TRT on your body and following a medically supervised tapering plan, you can safely discontinue TRT and support your body's return to natural testosterone production. Normalizing Natural Testosterone After Stopping TRT For most men, studies have shown that for men who stop TRT, natural testosterone production can normalize within three months or longer, and spermiogenesis in well over a year. This is certainly not optimal when conception is the goal, which leads to the possible need for a PCT protocol. Post cycle therapy (PCT) is crucial in maintaining and recovering natural testosterone levels after using performance-enhancing drugs, as it helps enhance the body's own testosterone production. PCT Treatments to Restore Hormonal Balance and Jump Start Natural Testosterone and Sperm Production The use of the SERMs has been shown to increase testosterone levels to baseline in as little as 2-4 weeks. Studies have also shown spermiogenesis to improve significantly within 3-6 months. Clomid as we can easily see, greatly improves the time frames of recovery of these two important factors related to conceiving (testosterone and semen). PCT is crucial to restore hormonal balance, helping individuals recover from the use of anabolic steroids by promoting natural testosterone production and mitigating adverse effects caused by hormonal imbalances. HCG is another item commonly used in PCT for fertility purposes. HCG PCT has the ability to stimulate both testosterone production and spermiogenesis. It is not uncommon for fertility specialists to try both Clomid and HCG and, in some cases, in conjunction with one another. Unfortunately, there is much controversy among many fertility specialists regarding how much HCG should be administered for this purpose. While many physicians will prescribe SERMs in the range of 25-50mg per day to every other day, commonly prescribed HCG doses can run anywhere from 1000iu per day to 2500iu or even larger doses split into every other day schedules. Other common drugs used in this treatment, but to a lesser extent, include the SERM Tamoxifen Citrate, best known by its most notable trade name, Nolvadex. Treatments usually requires 4 weeks. Unfortunately, for some men, a PCT plan that includes some or all of these medications will not work. A HCG PCT plan is most likely to work in a TRT patient who is receiving treatment due to secondary hypogonadism. If a PCT plan has not worked – testosterone levels and sperm count have not increased – it is likely that the individual has primary hypogonadism, and as a result, will be best served (quality of life) by remaining on TRT. It's imperative to note: this individual had primary hypogonadism prior to beginning TRT, he did not obtain it because of TRT. How to Know if Your PCT Worked? After going through PCT, physicians tend to check your testosterone blood levels and upstream hormones like LH and FSH to determine if your hormone axis has been restored. Discounted Labs has created a Post PCT Lab Test Panel that makes it easy for men to know if their PCT has successfully worked. This lab test panel is designed to measure the health and recovery of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA) after attempting to normalize it spontaneously or with the use of Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) (with the use of clomiphene, hCG, and other treatments) It is suggested that this panel be done no sooner than 4 weeks after PCT cessation and in a fasting state. You should fast for 12 hours before collection of the specimen. Fasting is defined as no consumption of food or beverage other than water for at least 12 hours before testing. If using a testosterone cream please be sure you have not rubbed any into the antecubital area of your arm for the last 24 hours as it can give elevated results. Lab tests included in the post-PCTest Panel: Ultra Sensitive Estradiol Test by Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS assay used to measure estradiol in men more accurately estradiol in men) Total and Free Testosterone LC/MS- No upper limit Luteinizing Hormone (LH) (responsible for activating Leydig testicular cells to produce your own testosterone). This hormone is shut down by testosterone replacement or AAS. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) (Responsible for activating Sertoli testicular cells to produce sperm). This hormone is shut down by testosterone replacement or AAS. CBC - Complete Blood Count (Includes hematocrit- red blood cell volume) CMP - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (Includes liver and kidney function, glucose and electrolytes) For any man, simply discontinuing the use of testosterone can be difficult, to put it mildly. Your testosterone levels will completely bottom out when going the cold-turkey route, and this often. This severe sexual dysfunction, decreased energy, and even depression, to name a few of the consequences. Your levels may go up enough to at least function, to a degree, but it's going to take an enormous amount of time, as previously discussed. Cutting this time down significantly, and giving your body a boost in testosterone during the therapy process, is the only means of discontinuation that makes any sense, meaning some form of a PCT plan is a sensible approach. Buy Discounted Lab's Post-PCT Panel  References: Diagnosis and Management of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Use Testosterone Use in the Male Infertility Population: Prescribing Patterns and Effects on Semen and Hormonal Parameters How to Stop TRT Safely

If you are reading this, chances are you've heard about CPK levels and their significance in the body. In this blog post, we'll uncover the significance of CPK levels in the body and explore potential causes behind any elevated readings as well as their effects on your health. The CPK blood test is a diagnostic tool used to measure creatine phosphokinase enzyme levels, which can indicate muscle damage or heart attack when elevated. We'll also delve into the various reasons behind elevated CPK levels—from muscle damage to heart attacks—and how they affect your overall health. Additionally, we'll discuss how CPK leaks occur and what symptoms to look out for if you suspect something might be wrong. Finally, we'll touch upon the different ways to treat high CPK levels depending on the underlying cause. By the end of this post, you will have a comprehensive understanding of everything related to CPK levels and how they impact your well-being. What is creatine phosphokinase (CPK)? Creatine phosphokinase (CPK), also known as creatine kinase (CK), is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles. This enzyme plays a crucial role in energy production by facilitating the conversion of creatine phosphate into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy carrier in cells. When the heart, brain, or skeletal muscles are damaged or injured, CPK is released into the bloodstream. Elevated levels of CPK in the blood can indicate muscle or heart damage, making it a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing conditions such as heart attacks, muscular dystrophy, and other muscle-related disorders. Understanding Creatine Phosphokinase and Its Role in Muscle Health Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles that plays a vital role in energy production and muscle contraction. CPK aids in the process of converting stored energy into ATP, which cells use for a variety of purposes, including movement. A blood test can measure CPK levels to determine if there has been any muscle damage or stress, particularly in the heart muscle. Understanding CPK and its role in muscle health, including in the heart muscle with small amounts, is crucial for maintaining overall physical well-being. High levels of CPK indicate that something may be wrong with your muscles. A high CPK level could point to a physical injury, like a tear or strain; an infection; inflammation; or even cardiac arrest. Low levels of CPK usually mean everything is normal but it's important to keep an eye on them just in case something changes suddenly. However, if your results show higher-than-normal levels of CPK, it may indicate ongoing muscle damage or degeneration, including high levels of CK. Elevated CPK levels can also be associated with muscle pain, which may result from strenuous exercise, certain medications, or underlying health problems. In this case, your healthcare provider may order a more specific test, called a CK isoenzymes test, to check the levels of specific CPK enzymes and determine the type of muscles affected. Understanding CPK and its role in muscle health is crucial for maintaining overall wellness. When it comes to muscle health, elevated CPK levels can cause fatigue and weakness, as well as difficulty breathing during exercise. It's also possible for these high levels of enzymes to leak out from damaged muscle tissue into the bloodstream, leading to further complications such as kidney failure or even death if left untreated for too long. Muscle inflammation, also known as myositis, is a rare condition that can also cause elevated CPK levels and lead to serious complications if not properly managed. CPK is an important biomarker for muscle health and its levels should be monitored regularly to ensure optimal functioning. High or low CPK levels can indicate various underlying issues, so it's important to understand what these values mean in order to properly assess your overall muscle health. Key Takeaway: CPK is an important enzyme that helps convert stored energy into ATP, which cells use for various functions. CPK in high concentrations can be an indication of muscle injury or tension and should not be overlooked; if left untreated, it could have severe repercussions such as renal failure or even mortality. Skeletal Muscle and CPK Skeletal muscle is one of the primary sources of CPK in the body. When skeletal muscle is damaged or injured, CPK is released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated CPK levels. This is why CPK tests are often used to diagnose and monitor muscle-related disorders, such as muscular dystrophy. Skeletal muscle injury can be caused by various factors, including intense exercise, trauma, or certain medical conditions. Elevated CPK levels can indicate that the muscle tissue is under stress or has been damaged, prompting further investigation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. High vs. Low CPK Levels: What Do They Mean? CPK, an enzyme present in the heart and skeletal muscles, is a biomarker used to gauge muscle damage or strain. It's used to measure muscle damage or stress, with total CPK levels being a key indicator. High levels of CPK can indicate a recent injury, while low levels may suggest certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism or liver disease. The CPK normal range can vary across different laboratories due to their methodologies and is influenced by factors such as age, gender, race, and physical activity. Typical normal ranges are from 10 to 120 mcg/L, and it is advisable to discuss your results with a healthcare professional. High CPK levels are commonly linked to muscular distress, ranging from strenuous physical activity and falls to medical procedures like surgery or cardiac catheterization. If your body has experienced any sort of physical shock recently, then you could have elevated CPK readings on lab tests. The good news is that these readings usually go back down over time without any intervention if no further trauma occurs, including recent surgery or open-heart surgery. On the other hand, low CPK levels can point towards several possible causes, including chronic illness (such as diabetes), kidney failure, malnutrition, and hypothyroidism; however, more serious underlying conditions like muscular dystrophy should also be considered if there are consistently lower than normal results for this test over time. In either case, it's important to discuss all findings with your doctor so they can make sure everything is okay and rule out any potential problems that could arise due to abnormal results on blood work tests like these ones. Additionally, there are lifestyle changes one can make in order to bring their numbers back into balance, depending on what's causing them to spike or drop too much. For example, eating healthier foods and exercising regularly will help regulate both high and low CPK values, whereas avoiding alcohol consumption and smoking cigarettes might help reduce higher-than-normal readings seen during routine testing sessions at the doctor's office. It's important to note that these lifestyle changes should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider and within the appropriate reference ranges for CPK levels. High CPK levels can be an indicator of a range of health problems, so it's essential to comprehend the implications and how they should be handled. By understanding the causes of high CPK levels, we can better assess our risk for certain diseases or conditions and take steps towards prevention. Key Takeaway: CPK values can be suggestive of physical injury or an underlying health issue, so it is important to consult a physician for further assessment. Depending on what's causing abnormal results, lifestyle changes such as dieting and exercising may help bring them back into balance. Causes of High CPK Levels in Skeletal Muscle Injury CPK, an enzyme involved in muscle wellbeing, is a type of creatine kinase. High CPK levels can indicate several underlying conditions, including heart attack, alcohol abuse, and traumatic events. While creatine kinase is predominantly found in skeletal and heart muscles, small amounts exist in brain tissue, and elevated levels can indicate damage or stress to the brain. Strenuous exercise, such as marathon running or weightlifting, can cause high CPK levels due to the physical stress it puts on muscles. Medications like statins used to lower cholesterol have also been linked to elevated CPK leaks. Additionally, alcohol abuse can lead to rhabdomyolysis, which is a condition where damaged skeletal muscle breaks down rapidly and causes high CPK levels in the bloodstream. High CPK levels may be due to strenuous physical activity, muscle damage or disorder, and specific drugs. To better understand how to lower high CPK levels, it is important to first identify the underlying cause. Key Takeaway: CPK is an enzyme that monitors muscle health and can indicate a variety of medical issues. It's crucial to monitor your CPK levels with routine lab tests from Discounted Labs because they can rise as a result of strenuous exercise, certain medications, or alcohol abuse. How To Lower High CPK Levels Due to the increased risk, those who have a serious medical condition like a heart attack should seek immediate treatment without delay, especially if they also experience chest pain, tightness, sweating, dizziness, breathlessness, and other symptoms. By adhering to these steps, consulting with your doctor when necessary, and taking advantage of rest, hydration, NSAIDs, and CoQ10 supplements for muscle recovery and oxidative stress reduction, respectively, you can keep your CPK levels within healthy ranges for optimal muscle health. By making dietary and lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress levels and increasing physical activity, it is possible to lower high CPK levels. Understanding the results of a CPK Isoenzymes Test can help you identify any underlying health issues that may be contributing to your elevated CPK levels and determine if further tests are needed so that they can be addressed appropriately by a health care provider. Preparing for the CPK Test Preparing for a CPK test is relatively straightforward. Here are some steps to follow to ensure accurate and reliable results: Inform Your Doctor: Let your doctor know about any medications you are taking, as some drugs can affect the test results. Avoid Strenuous Exercise: Refrain from engaging in intense physical activity for at least 24 hours before the test, as this can lead to elevated CPK levels. No Fasting Required: No fasting is needed for a CPK test. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose and comfortable clothing to make it easier for the healthcare professional to draw a blood sample. Bring Medical Records: Carry any relevant medical records or previous test results to your appointment for reference. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your CPK test results are accurate and provide valuable insights into your muscle and heart health. Understanding the CPK Blood Test and Isoenzymes The CPK isoenzymes test measures the levels of three different enzymes in your blood. It helps determine whether you carry the gene for muscular dystrophy or not. The three isoenzymes measured are creatine phosphokinase (CPK), myoglobin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). All three are important proteins that help regulate muscle health and function. CPK is an enzyme found in both skeletal muscles and cardiac muscles, which makes it a useful marker for evaluating overall muscle health. When there's damage to either type of muscle, CPK levels increase as the body tries to repair itself. Elevated CPK can signify occurrences such as myocardial infarction or muscular dystrophy, whereas low concentrations may be the result of medication intake or dietary inadequacies. There are different types of CPK, including CPK-MB and CPK-MM, that can help to pinpoint where the damage is coming from. Myoglobin is a protein found primarily in skeletal muscles that helps convert energy into mechanical work during physical activity. High myoglobin levels can indicate inflammation or injury within these muscles, while low values could suggest nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin D deficiency or iron-deficiency anemia. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), present in red blood cells and other tissues such as skeletal muscle fibers and heart tissue walls, aids in the breakdown of lactic acid produced by exercising muscles. This enzyme plays a role in breaking down lactic acid produced by exercising muscles, so high LDH concentrations may point towards intense physical activity causing fatigue or overtraining syndrome caused by excessive exercise without adequate rest periods between workouts. Low LDH values could signal problems with red blood cell production due to bone marrow disorders like leukemia or thalassemia, among others. Another condition that may cause elevated LDH levels is tissue death, such as lung tissue death (pulmonary infarction) or heart tissue death (myocardial infarction). Understanding what each component of the CPK Isoenzymes Test means will help you better understand any abnormal results from this lab test and make informed decisions about your health care needs accordingly. Key Takeaway: The CPK Isoenzymes Test measures three key proteins in the body to determine whether someone carries the gene for muscular dystrophy or not. It evaluates overall muscle health by looking at creatine phosphokinase (CPK), myoglobin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, which can indicate inflammation, injury, excessive exercise without rest periods, or even bone marrow disorders such as leukemia. FAQs in Relation to CPK Levels What is the significance of CPK? Creatine phosphokinase (CPK), an enzyme involved in muscle contraction, can be determined through a blood test to aid in the diagnosis of certain medical conditions. It can be measured through a blood test, and its levels are used to help diagnose certain medical conditions, such as heart attacks, muscular dystrophy, rhabdomyolysis, and some types of cancer. High CPK levels, indicating elevated enzyme levels, can be a sign of tissue damage or inflammation, while low levels may suggest poor nutrition or vitamin deficiency. Doctors use CPK levels, also known as creatine kinase levels, to identify medical issues related to muscle disease and devise treatment plans for patients. What is the role of CPK during muscle contraction? CPK, an enzyme essential for muscle contraction, facilitates the transfer of energy from creatine phosphate molecules to ATP. CPK aids in the transformation of energy from creatine phosphate molecules into ATP, which is required for muscular activity during contraction. Without CPK, muscles would not be able to generate enough ATP and, therefore, would not have sufficient energy for normal functioning. Therefore, it can be said that CPK is essential for providing the necessary energy needed during muscle contractions. What is considered a high level of CPK? A high level of CPK (creatine phosphokinase) is generally considered to be above 200 IU/L for a healthy adult. This enzyme can indicate muscle damage, and levels that are significantly higher than normal could point to a heart attack or stroke. Individuals with increased CPK, especially those with a higher muscle mass and activity level, should get medical help to identify any possible causes of the heightened levels and determine the most accurate test methods for their specific situation. What does CPK mean medically? CPK stands for creatine phosphokinase, an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. It is used as a marker of tissue damage or stress to these organs, specifically smooth muscle. CPK amounts can be ascertained via blood tests, specifically a CPK or total CK test, and are often utilized to recognize heart attacks, strokes, muscular dystrophy, and other medical conditions. Elevated CPK levels can also indicate drug toxicity or overexertion from exercise. Understanding the meaning and purpose of a CPK or total CK test, also known as a CPK test, is crucial in monitoring and maintaining the health of your muscles and heart. Conclusion The importance of understanding CPK and its role in muscle health cannot be overstated. It is essential for those anxious about their CPK levels to consult with a medical professional, as either too high or too low values can point to underlying problems that need attention. With the right treatment plan, it is possible to lower high CPK levels and maintain healthy muscles. The CPK Isoenzymes Test provides valuable information on how well your body is functioning and should not be overlooked when monitoring overall health. Take control of your health today and save money with discounted labs! Get the most accurate lab tests available without a doctor's visit. Buy your CPK test today. Sources Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK) - Johns Hopkins Lupus Center CPK Isoenzymes Test - UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital What Is the CPK Enzyme Test? - WebMD Changes in Muscle Enzyme Levels and Correlations in Riders During the Tour de France - PubMed Central Evaluation of Elevated Creatine Kinase - Medscape Elevated CPK Levels in Association with Muscle Enzymes in Psychiatric Treatments - PubMed Central Diagnosis and Management of Statin-Induced Myopathy - PubMed Central The Impact of High Blood Pressure on Creatine Kinase Levels in Cardiovascular Disease - American Heart Association Journals Creatine Kinase - StatPearls - PubMed Bookshelf Creatine Kinase (CK) - Cleveland Clinic Creatine Kinase - MedlinePlus

Table of Contents Brain Aromatase and Why It's Not a Good Idea to Reduce Its Activity Estrogen and its beneficial effects in bodybuilding Estrogen function in men and why inhibiting its production can be detrimental.  High estrogen levels and prostate cancer Testosterone's conversion to estrogen is important to eliminate anxiety and depression Testosterone activity in the brain High estradiol levels are not correlated with erectile dysfunction Estradiol improve endothelial function in healthy men Estradiol and libido, erectile function and reproduction How estradiol works when testosterone levels are low Estradiol and its influence in eugonadal men (men with normal testosterone levels.) Analyzing the role of estradiol on hypogonadal men who undertake testosterone replacement therapy Aromatase inhibition can decrease insulin sensitivity The relationship between estrogen and bodybuilding Estradiol and DHT can make you age more slowly Symptoms of low estradiol in men Estradiol and reproductive function in men Brain Aromatase and Why It's Not a Good Idea to Reduce Its Activity Every man has free and bound testosterone circulating through his bloodstream. The bound testosterone is attached to either sex hormone-binding globulin or albumin. The free testosterone is available in small quantities in comparison with the bound testosterone. A small portion of it is converted to estrogen using the enzyme called "aromatase". Although estrogen is a female sex hormone, it plays an important role in a male's body too. For example, estradiol, a type of estrogen, is vital for proper sexual functioning and libido in men. However, too much estrogen can be detrimental, leading to poor sexual functioning, poor erections, accumulation of fat in the abdominal area and male boobs (gynecomastia). During testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), some men take drugs to inhibit aromatase and prevent it to convert too much testosterone into estrogen. these drugs inhibit the aromatase enzyme. Although this might sound like a good idea at first, altering the normal production of aromatase can lead to brain inflammation, studies suggest. The levels of aromatase and estrogen have been measured in injured brains and it has been discovered that the aromatase enzyme increased to protect the damaged neurons and the connections between them. Evidence concludes that inhibiting the normal levels of aromatase can lead to inflammation in healthy brains and more injury to already damaged brains. This happens because the aromatase/estrogen expression is moved from neurons to astrocytes which are a different type of brain cells. Astrocytes act as a cushion for neurons and they are usually more active when brain injury is detected. These cells can help with the healing process, but if they stay active for too long, this can lead to further damage to the brain. Studies also show that an insufficient amount of brain aromatase can indicate neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. Low amounts of aromatase can increase plaque development which damages the brain. That's why it is recommended to be careful when taking an aromataseinhibitor during testosterone replacement therapy as this drug might mess with the normal levels of aromatase and lead to brain complications.   Estrogen and its beneficial effects in bodybuilding Estrogen, one of the most important female sex hormone, is vital for professional athletes who aim at increasing their muscle mass. For example, estrogen can increase the anabolic response by modifying the way glucose is processed in muscle tissue. This hormone can influence the amounts of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase which is directly correlated to muscle growth and repair. In other words, having adequate amounts of estrogen can maximize muscle gains and strength. In studies performed on rats, estrogen has also been correlated with a whopping 480% increase in methyltrienolone which is an androgen connected to the levator ani muscle. The production of growth hormone and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor) are also influenced by estrogen. This female sex hormone can increase the proliferation of IGF-1 in body tissues and liver which leads to greater muscle gains and protein synthesis. Estrogen also plays an important role when it comes to serotonin production. Serotonin is known for regulating the sleep/waking cycle. Bodybuilders who take aromatase inhibitors as drugs might have low levels of estrogen in the body. This can alter the serotonin production and lead to a thing called "steroid fatigue". This is usually characterized by a general feeling of tiredness which can interfere with training regimes and prevent the athlete from performing at his peak. Maximizing muscle gains can be difficult in this case. Estrogen function in men and why inhibiting its production can be detrimental.  The aforementioned aromatase inhibitors are taken orally while one of them can be injected. There haven't been studies assessing the short-term symptoms of these drugs on the physiology of an athlete. However, although drugs which inhibit aromatase and subsequently reduce estrogen levels are not usually used for a long period of time, they can cause problems when the estrogen drops under the normal range limit. Estrogen, particularly estradiol, is a powerful hormone which influences multiple body processes in both men and women. For example, estrogen can be anabolic in certain tissues such as bone and fat. It directly impacts bone density and can influence how much fat the body accumulates, particularly in the abdominal area. Estrogen can also have a stimulatory role and it influences protein production in the liver. It has a metabolic effect in the endocrine system and influences the binding globulins for vitamin D. Estrogen is also a neurosteroid influencing neurotransmitters in the brain. This can have an effect on emotions, motivation, and other functions. Since estrogen is so important in the human body, it is safe to assume that reducing it to dangerously low levels using drugs can have negative consequences on health. Similarly, having estrogen levels above the normal limit can also be detrimental for a male's body. The key is to maintain balance when it comes to estrogen levels and make sure that estradiol E2 doesn't drop below 20pg/mL.   The effects of aromatase inhibition on bone mineral density in older men A study was conducted at a tertiary care academic center in Boston, MA, measuring the levels of testosterone and estradiol of 69 men over 60 years of age. The participants had borderline or low testosterone levels and the study included a placebo group. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of aromatase inhibition on bone mineral density and bone turnover. Each participant received 1 mg of an aromatase inhibitor daily or a placebo drug. At the end of the study, the serum testosterone increased from 319 ± 93 ng/dl at baseline to 524 ± 139 ng/dl in month 3 and dropped slightly after one year. The estradiol levels also decreased from 15 at baseline to 12 after 3 months and remained there. The bone mineral density decreased in the aromatase inhibitor group in comparison with the placebo group. Taking aromatase inhibitors reduce the amount of testosterone which is converted to estradiol and because participants had less estradiol in their bloodstream, their bone mineral density also dropped. This concludes that estradiol is important for bone mineral density, particularly in older men. Is anastrazole for men a good idea?   High estrogen levels and prostate cancer Some studies conclude that high levels of estrogen might help develop prostate cancer cells, but men who already have prostate cancer don't have high levels of estrogen in the bloodstream. Other studies show that a sharp increase in estrogen levels might lead to prostate cancer, but more information is required to reach a definitive conclusion. A small part of the free testosterone which circulates through the bloodstream is converted into estrogen. This hormone is required for maintaining proper health and avoiding cardiovascular diseases as well as diabetes type 2. On the other hand, low testosterone levels have also been associated with an increase in prostate cancer cells. A significant body of evidence indicates that high estrogen levels might be dangerous for men and affect their prostate only when testosterone levels are too low. Increasing testosterone levels through TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) will also increase estrogen levels in a natural way, but this doesn't automatically mean that the risk of prostate cancer will be higher. Approximately 50 years of studies show that testosterone administration alone doesn't lead to prostate cancer.   Testosterone's conversion to estrogen is important to eliminate anxiety and depression It is estimated that approximately 20 million adults in the United States are affected by depression each year. Many of these people receive antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, but this medicine can have different effects on certain people and they don't come without side effects. Testosterone plays an important role in reducing anxiety and depression feelings in men, while estrogen and progesterone also act together as a protective mechanism against depression in women. Women, in particular, are 70 percent more predisposed to depression during their lifetimes, in comparison with men. However, certain low-testosterone males also develop depression and antidepressants seem to be inefficient for them. New evidence suggests that the conversion of testosterone to estrogen is necessary to reap the antidepressant effects of testosterone. Professor Mohamed Kabbaj reached this conclusion during his studies which were promoted by the National Institute of Mental Health. It has been discovered that there is a link between testosterone conversion to estrogen and depression in animal studies, but this link might be valid in human studies as well. This might lead to new antidepressants which impact the brain differently and are more efficient for low-testosterone men. Testosterone influences a plethora of pathways in the brain and it can have multiple side effects. That's why it is important to develop a drug which acts only on the pathways responsible with anxiety and depression. Some of the side effects caused by antidepressants include heart problems and these should be avoided. Better drugs are necessary to impact the brain differently and safely treat anxiety and depression feelings. Dr. Kabbaj discovered that the antidepressant effects of testosterone happen only after this hormone has been converted to estrogen. The conversion process is regulated by a special enzyme in the brain. Dr. Kabbaj inhibited this enzyme in the hippocampus area of the brain. This area is responsible for mood regulation and has a strong influence on how a person feels. When this enzyme has been inhibited, the antidepressant effects of testosterone weren't present. This leads to the conclusion that the conversion of testosterone to estrogen is very important. Testosterone impacts the MAPK pathway in the brain to produce these positive and beneficial antidepressant effects. However, this pathway is also implicated in multiple other body processes, including cell growth and cancer. More work is required to find out ways to get the antidepressant effects of testosterone without increasing the risk of cancer. Testosterone activity in the brain Tests have been done on rats to discover the behavior of testosterone when it enters the brain. Castrated rats have been injected with estradiol instead of testosterone and the recovery process of intromission and ejaculation worked normally. The estradiol was injected into the hypothalamus. However, when DHT was injected instead of testosterone (DHT is a powerful androgen which doesn't convert to estrogen), no recovery process was detected. This concludes that testosterone converts to estrogen when it is injected into the hypothalamus and facilitates sexual behavior. The aromatase enzyme is present in this part of the brain as well as estrogen receptors. It has also been discovered that injecting drugs which block the aromatization process of testosterone to estrogen can change the behavioral effects of testosterone and significantly influence sexual function. This means that testosterone must convert to estrogen to enable proper male sexual behavior. Further studies show that inhibiting the aromatization process in monkeys can interfere with their sexual behavior. Men who have a congenital deficiency of aromatase also have a low sex drive and they can benefit greatly from small doses of estradiol to improve sexual functioning. The testosterone's effects on male sexuality are twofold. This hormone influences libido directly with the help of androgen receptors and indirectly using estrogen receptors. However, more work is necessary to determine the exact differences between these effects.   High estradiol levels are not correlated with erectile dysfunction Contrary to the popular belief, high estradiol levels are not associated with poor sexual function in males. A study was conducted on low testosterone centers in the United States, comprising more than 34,000 men. The participants had different ages, some of them being younger than 25 while others being older than 65. Estradiol levels were measured using electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay and it has been discovered that having too much estradiol in the bloodstream doesn't lead to poor sex drive and erectile dysfunction. It has also been discovered that those with low or normal estradiol levels have a higher incidence of poor sex drive and potential erectile dysfunction.   Estradiol improve endothelial function in healthy men Studies show that estradiol (sometimes written as oestradiol) can improve endothelial function in healthy men. The endothelium is a very thin membrane which lines up the insides of your blood vessels and heart. It can also be found on lymph vessels. Its role is to release substances which help relax or constrict the blood vessels, depending on various factors. The endothelium is also important for controlling platelets, blood clotting and to regulate immune function in men and women. It is already known that supplementing with estrogen (particularly estradiol) is linked to a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease in women who are deficient in this hormone. The purpose of the study is to determine if estrogen can also be beneficial for the endothelial function in healthy men. The study included 23 men aged 32 years, give or take up to 8 years. They were split into three groups. One group was given testosterone supplements alone, one group received a combination of testosterone and 10mg of estradiol and the third group received testosterone and 20mg of estradiol. These participants were measured one month and six months after multiple tests were performed to determine the influence of estradiol on their health. The study concluded that those who received estradiol supplementation had a better endothelial function. This means that administering estradiol to healthy men can improve their cardiovascular system.   Estradiol and libido, erectile function and reproduction Estradiol impacts multiple processes in a human body and it can have a strong influence on the brain. This hormone can directly influence the brain and dictate the sexual behavior of mammals, creating arousal states and moods which are conducive to reproduction. This is done by the release of pheromones. These substances can increase activity in the area anterior to the hypothalamus. Neurons play an important role in converting testosterone to estrogen using the aromatase enzyme. There are billions of neurons in the brain and they transmit electrical information 24/7, helping humans function correctly. Another important brain cell is the astrocyte. These cells help the neurons transfer information from one part of the brain to the other. They are star-shaped cells which play an important role, particularly when the brain is injured and they also use the aromatase enzyme to convert testosterone to estrogen. The anterior area of the hypothalamus contains numerous estrogen receptors. These receptors work similarly to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which are known for lowering sex drive. This might indicate that estrogen can significantly influence sexual functioning and behaviors in men.   How estradiol works when testosterone levels are low Having low testosterone levels can definitely lead to poor sexual functioning and lack of libido. To determine the efficacy of estradiol in men and what influences it has, it is important to analyze it in people who have normal as well as low testosterone levels. Studies have been done on men with low testosterone. They received doses of estradiol and reported an increased sexual drive. These human studies are supported by the ones performed on rats. Castrated rodents were given estrogen and it has been discovered that this increased their sexual activity. Another important finding consists of patients who had prostate cancer and received androgen deprivation therapy. This type of therapy is known to slow down or completely stop the advancing of prostate cancer since the cancerous cells require testosterone to grow. When the androgen levels reached a critical point, the patients reported symptoms which are commonly found in people who have a low sex drive and erectile dysfunction such as hot flashes and other adverse effects. It has also been discovered that androgen receptor blockers are more efficient in maintaining sexual activity in comparison with castration. This might happen as a result of testosterone conversion to estrogen. It is possible that supplementing with estradiol might make patients who undertake androgen deprivation therapy have increased brain activity in those areas responsible with sexual behavior.   Estradiol and its influence in eugonadal men (men with normal testosterone levels.) Eugonadal means men with healthy testosterone levels. Estradiol has been proven beneficial for people with low testosterone levels, increasing libido, and sexual desire. However, some studies show that the same positive results don't apply to eugonadal men. One study was performed on men with healthy testosterone levels. They received estradiol on a regular basis and they reported a decrease in sexual functioning, libido, masturbation, and erections. On the other hand, another study reported that administering estradiol to 50 men aged between 20 and 40 years didn't influence their sexual function and libido at all. More research is required to understand how estradiol affects eugonadal men, but administering this hormone exogenously can be beneficial for people who have testosterone levels, increasing their libido and sexual desire.   Analyzing the role of estradiol on hypogonadal men who undertake testosterone replacement therapy Testosterone supplementation therapy aims to improve the quality of life of hypogonadal men as well as increase the levels of circulating testosterone in their bloodstream. This therapy also tries to increase the number of testosterone metabolites such as estradiol which is known for playing a vital role in sexual desire. In a test performed on men with secondary hypogonadism, c l o mi phene was used to increase the levels of testosterone by influencing the estrogen receptors directly. Secondary hypogonadism means that the testicles function correctly, but there is a scarcity of luteinizing hormone produced by the pituitary gland and this translates into low testosterone levels. The clomiphene citrate managed to increase testosterone levels in men with secondary hypogonadism as well as increasing the conversion of testosterone to estrogen. Other studies show that clomiphene citrate can increase sexual desire and libido. Another study performed in 2013 looked at the role of testosterone in healthy men and how it can influence sexual behavior. Some of the study participants received testosterone in combination with aromatase inhibitors, while others received testosterone without aromatase inhibitors. As a result, the sexual function was impaired when aromatization was inhibited. Other studies show that sexual desire increased significantly when men received testosterone supplementation therapy and had estradiol levels above 5 ng/dl. Even when testosterone levels were below 300 ng/dl and the estradiol levels were higher than 5 ng/dl, the sexual desire was increased. Yet another study looked at the sexual behavior of men who received l etr ozole which is a powerful aromatase inhibitor. These men had low testosterone levels and after being given le tro zole, their estradiol level dropped even lower. The result was that libido was significantly decreased. This means that both testosterone and estradiol are important in people who have testosterone deficiency to achieve and maintain healthy sexual desire and libido.   Aromatase inhibition can decrease insulin sensitivity Insulin sensitivity is extremely important when it comes to diseases such as diabetes type 2. Those who have low insulin sensitivity are more predisposed to become diabetic in the future. Inhibiting the aromatase enzyme through different types of drugs can have a significant influence on insulin sensitivity in both humans and rats. A study conducted at a clinical research facility tested 17 healthy men with ages between 18 and 50 years. This was a double-blind, controlled study. Each participant received an aromatase inhibitor, or a placebo drug for 6 weeks. The study concluded that inhibiting aromatase can lead to poor insulin sensitivity, particularly when it comes to peripheral glucose disposal.   The relationship between estrogen and bodybuilding It is well known that estrogen gives you a feeling of wellbeing and the lack of it can lead to depression, mood swings, emotional instability, and even depressive thoughts. Aromatase inhibitors can reduce the amount of estrogen the body produces and it usually makes a person feel lethargic and unhappy. For example, menopausal women seem to become more emotionally unstable and being haunted by feelings of anxiety and depression. Studies show that this can also be the case for bodybuilders and top athletes who regularly take aromatase inhibitors to convert less testosterone to estrogen. Estrogen is vital when it comes to sexual drive and libido as well and it is a well-known fact that aromatase inhibitors can negatively impact sex drive. A study on two groups of men reached the conclusion that estrogen is very important for libido. The first group received testosterone treatment alone while the second group received testosterone and an anti-estrogenic agent. At the end of the test, the group who received only testosterone treatment had better sexual drive and libido. Researchers also believe that lowering the estrogen levels too much in healthy men can lead to anxiety feelings, depression and even osteoporosis.   Estradiol and DHT can make you age more slowly Another study performed in Australia looked at the link between telomere length and the amount of serum estradiol and DHT in men. Telomeres are sequences of nucleotides at the end of each chromosome. They are used as a biomarker for aging. Having shorter telomeres means that the biological age is higher, regardless of the actual age of the person. Having longer telomeres correlated with a smaller biological age which basically means that the person is younger than his or her real age. The study performed in Australia looked at the telomere lengths of men aged 53, give or take approximately 15 years. The conclusion of the study was that estradiol and DHT correlate with telomere length and a small reduction in estradiol can amount to an approximate age increase of a decade. Estradiol alone can influence telomere length and that's why it is important not to reduce it too much using aromatase inhibitors.   Symptoms of low estradiol in men A study performed in a medical center on several hundred men concluded that lack of estradiol can give certain vasomotor symptoms similar to those menopausal women have. These symptoms include hot flashes, sweats and flushes. The study participants were healthy men with ages between 20 and 50 years. They had normal serum testosterone levels and were split into two groups The first group of men was administered goserelin acetate which stops gonadal steroids. After 4 weeks, they received placebo drugs or different doses of testosterone gels. The second group of men received a treatment similar to those in the first group, but they also received an inhibitor of the aromatization of testosterone to estrogen. The study concluded that those who received aromatase inhibitors and had low estradiol levels experienced vasomotor symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes. Similarly, those who received high doses of testosterone gel (approx 10 grams daily), as well as aromatase inhibitors, didn't experience the same symptoms. This means that when high amounts of testosterone are administered, it can suppress the effect of the aromatase inhibitor and leave estrogen levels intact.   Estradiol and reproductive function in men The sexual function in males is directly influenced by a mix of multiple substances and organs including testosterone, estradiol, estrogen receptors, testes, penis, and brain. The aromatase enzyme and estrogen receptors have a similar location in the brain and they are important in the development of sexual function early in life. They also influence sexual behavior in adulthood in combination with other substances called pheromones. Estrogen influences the mood and libido of a man, enabling him to alter his cognition for a mental state conducive to reproduction. Spermatogenesis is another important part of male reproduction. The creation of sperm cells relies on estradiol and these cells contain estrogen receptors and the aromatase enzyme. Men who undertake testosterone supplementation therapy should also be monitored for their estrogen levels. This is because an estradiol level below 5ng/dl can cause a significant drop in sex drive and libido.   Conclusion The role of estrogen in the male body is unquestionably important. Bodybuilders, professional athletes, and patients who undertake testosterone replacement therapy should be careful when it comes to managing estradiol levels since this hormone can significantly impact their wellbeing, sex drive, and bone density.   Get Your Estradiol Blood Test and Find Out More! Note: For estradiol testing, no fasting is typically required. However, if you're also testing testosterone levels or getting a comprehensive hormone panel, please check specific testing requirements as some panels may require fasting or have special preparation instructions.

Understanding High PSA Levels: A Prostate Health Guide PSA is also known as the prostate-specific antigen. This is a protein that your prostate gland naturally produces. In healthy individuals, PSA levels are small all the time, and this type of protein circulates freely through the bloodstream. However, doctors and researchers have discovered that PSA can get really high sometimes. This is usually because the patient has a significant prostate infection or prostate cancer. Developing prostate cancer is something that scares most people, but luckily, high PSA levels don't necessarily mean that you have cancer. Dive into this article and learn why sometimes your PSA levels are high, yet this is not a diagnosis for cancer. Table of Contents Understanding High PSA Levels: A Prostate Health Guide What Are Normal PSA Levels? Your Age Might Naturally Increase PSA Levels Prostatitis Can Also Cause High PSA Levels Having a Recent Medical Procedure Might Raise PSA Levels Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Could Also Cause High PSA Levels If You Exercise Often, Your PSA Levels Might Increase. Having a urinary tract infection could cause high PSA levels Why Should You Order a PSA Test? Free PSA vs. Regular PSA Test Order Your PSA Test From DiscountedLabs Today! What Are Normal PSA Levels? PSA can fluctuate in the bloodstream depending on various factors. However, individuals who don't have prostate cancer have PSA levels under 4 ng/mL. Most often, healthy men have PSA levels revolving around 1-2 ng/mL. At the same time, scientists have discovered that PSA levels above 4 ng/ml usually translate into prostate cancer. Some cancer patients have PSA levels above 6 or even 7 ng/ml, and they usually receive some sort of treatment to bring these levels down. Your Age Might Naturally Increase PSA Levels Now that you know what the normal levels of PSA are, it's time to see how age affects it. Men who are 50 years of age or older begin to see a significant spike in their PSA levels. This happens because the prostate tissue naturally produces more PSA. Men in their 70s usually have higher PSA levels than normal. However, this doesn't automatically mean that they have cancer. In many cases, screening seniors for PSA levels might result in false positives. Other types of tests are necessary, besides a PSA test, to determine if a patient has cancer or not. Therefore, if you or your dad have high PSA levels, you shouldn't be scared because this doesn't usually translate into prostate cancer. Prostatitis Can Also Cause High PSA Levels Prostatitis is nothing but an inflammation of the prostate tissue. It can happen to men of all ages, and it comes with various symptoms. For example, patients who have prostatitis experience mild fever, difficulty urinating, or painful ejaculations. Feeling pressure in the rectum area is another sign of prostatitis. Some men may experience something known as chronic nonbacterial prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome. These individuals with CNP or CPPS might experience symptoms similar to prostatitis. For example, they might complain of mild lower back pain, painful ejaculation, and discomfort in the pelvic area. In some cases, prostatitis can be asymptomatic as well. For many patients, prostatitis can be a chronic problem, but this is not a confirmed diagnosis for prostate cancer. Having a Recent Medical Procedure Might Raise PSA Levels Different types of medical procedures done on the prostate tissue or urinary tract might make the prostate produce more PSA. For example, if you've had a recent prostate exam, your PSA levels are probably higher than normal. At the same time, having a urinary catheter inserted in the urethra can cause mild irritation and make the prostate tissue release more PSA. As a rule of thumb, patients should wait a few weeks after having a procedure before they take a PSA test. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Could Also Cause High PSA Levels Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is another reason why your PSA levels are high, but you don't have prostate cancer. This type of condition is frequently encountered among older men. It is an enlargement of the prostate tissue, and it's usually accompanied by symptoms similar to prostatitis. At the same time, BPH can have similar symptoms as those experienced by those with prostate cancer. This includes painful urination and problems with ejaculation. If You Exercise Often, Your PSA Levels Might Increase. Different types of vigorous exercises, such as running or high-intensity interval training, can increase your PSA levels and potentially contribute to prostate problems. They will eventually remain elevated for a few days. That's why you need to stop exercising for at least two days before going for an early-detection PSA test. Bicycle riding is especially linked to potentially increased PSA levels. Factors that might affect PSA levels include certain medicines, such as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride (Proscar or Propecia) or dutasteride (Avodart), which can lower PSA levels. According to the National Cancer Institute, a PSA test can find high levels of PSA that may mean a person has prostate cancer. An elevated PSA level can also be caused by other problems with the prostate, like an enlarged or inflamed prostate. Therefore, determining what a high PSA score means can be complicated. To decide whether to have a PSA test, discuss the issue with your doctor, considering your risk factors and weighing your personal preferences. A higher level of PSA means a higher risk of prostate cancer. A high PSA level can be the first sign of prostate cancer and can also indicate less serious conditions, such as an enlarged prostate. Keep up with your regular appointments and tests so your care team can keep tabs on your health. If you’re experiencing prostate symptoms, such as an enlarged prostate, dull pain in the lower pelvic area, frequent urination, and pain or difficulty while urinating, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and diagnosis. If your PSA level is high, a prostate biopsy is the only way to find out if the cause is cancer. And prostate biopsies have possible harm. Having a urinary tract infection could cause high PSA levels Urinary tract infections might also increase your PSA levels. These are common among men, and they can cause irritation to the prostate tissue. As a result, the prostate will produce more PSA and give a false positive for prostate cancer to a PSA test. The level of the urinary tract infection can also affect how much PSA the prostate produces. For example, those who experience painful urination, blood in the urine, and other serious symptoms usually have their PSA levels increase. Why Should You Order a PSA Test? It's important to understand that you can have various symptoms, such as painful urination, pelvic pain, abdominal discomfort, and back pain, without having prostate cancer. One or more of the previously mentioned conditions frequently cause these symptoms. However, those who do indeed have prostate cancer and are unaware of it experience these symptoms. That's why it's important to do a PSA test as soon as you start to experience one or more of the symptoms presented in this article. If your PSA levels are slightly higher, your doctor might take you through other types of tests to determine if you really have prostate cancer or not. Most patients don't, so don't get scared right away. If your PSA levels are very high and other tests indicate that your prostate might be cancerous, it's best to discover it as soon as possible, right? Your doctor might recommend various treatment methods to help you keep your PSA levels under control. In any case, it's very important to do a PSA test, especially if you're older and experience recurring pelvic pain or discomfort while urinating. Free PSA vs. Regular PSA Test When PSA levels are elevated, free PSA can be used as a marker to help determine if prostate cancer is a possibility. Free PSA is the amount of PSA in the blood that is not bound to other proteins. A low percentage of free PSA may indicate a higher likelihood of aggressive prostate cancer. An enlarged prostate, BPH, and certain medications can also cause high PSA levels. To confirm a diagnosis, additional tests may be needed beyond just a PSA test. Essential Tips for PSA Test Preparation Proper preparation before your PSA test is essential to ensuring accurate results. While the test itself is straightforward, there are certain steps you can take to help maximize the accuracy of your test results. Before your PSA test, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect PSA levels. Your healthcare provider may advise you to temporarily stop taking certain medications before the test. Additionally, it's recommended to avoid sexual activity, ejaculation, and vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours before your PSA test, as these activities can temporarily increase PSA levels. Fasting is not typically required before a PSA test. Steps to Take Before Your Test Before your PSA test, there are several steps you can take to ensure accurate results: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect PSA levels. Avoid sexual activity, ejaculation, and vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours before your test, as these activities can temporarily increase PSA levels. It is not typically necessary to fast before a PSA test, but it's always a good idea to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Be prepared to provide a blood sample during your appointment. The blood sample will be used to measure the level of PSA in your blood. What to Avoid Prior to Your Test To ensure accurate results from your PSA test, it's important to avoid certain factors that can affect PSA levels: Avoid ejaculation and sexual activity for at least 24 hours before your test, as these activities can temporarily increase PSA levels. Refrain from vigorous exercise or activities that put pressure on the prostate gland, such as bicycle riding, as this can also affect PSA levels. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect PSA levels. Your healthcare provider may advise you to temporarily stop taking certain medications before the test. It's important to note that certain factors, such as an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), can also cause elevated PSA levels. Your healthcare provider will take into consideration your individual risk factors and medical history when interpreting your PSA test results. Order Your PSA Test From DiscountedLabs Today! You might be happy to find out that prostate cancer screening, including the PSA screening test and urine test, for different types of prostate cancer diagnosis is much more affordable these days. Order your blood test for PSA screening from DiscountedLabs and get your test results back in just a few business days. You don't even need your doctor's approval; you just order the PSA test, offer a blood sample to a nearby clinic, and receive your test results back by email. Ideally, a small PSA test is used for men who have at least 10 years of life expectancy or are being evaluated for a metastatic prostate cancer diagnosis. In general, we recommend prostate cancer screening for men ages 55 to 69, unless a male has a higher risk of prostate cancer diagnosis (a family history, being of African American descent), in which case we screen at age 50. This aligns with guidelines from the U. The next step after a positive PSA level or rectal exam indicating possible prostate cancer is a biopsy. This is a test where the doctor takes a small amount of tissue from your prostate and sends it to a lab for testing. It’s the only way to be sure you have cancer. It has never been easier to check the health of your prostate, so order your PSA test today.  

Table of Contents What is CHD and Why it is Important to Monitor and Treat? What is Chronic Kidney Disease? What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease? What are the Five Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease? What are the Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease? How is Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosed? How to Treat Chronic Kidney Disease? How Fast Does Chronic Kidney Disease Progress? How Can Chronic Kidney Disease be Reversed? Can Chronic Kidney Disease Cause UTI? How Long Can You Live with Chronic Kidney Disease? CMP - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Aldosterone, Serum Cystatin C with EGFR Blood Test Electrolyte Panel Uric Acid (Serum) Urinalysis Be kind to your kidneys. Get tested today! What is CHD and Why it is Important to Monitor and Treat? Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a much larger health problem in the U.S. than many of you reading this may realize, which is why we're going to answer all of your burning questions having to do with chronic kidney disease, including the stages, the symptoms, and the treatment options.   According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)[1], the numbers are a little overwhelming:   15 percent of U.S. adults have chronic kidney disease (37 million people) Nine out of 10 adults in the U.S. don't know they have CKD One out of two adults in the U.S. with very low kidney function who are not already on dialysis don't know they have chronic kidney disease   What's the greatest takeaway from these three statistics? People who are at risk of getting CKD are not getting tested for it, which has negative long-term consequences.   Other important facts according to the CDC on chronic kidney disease include:   Chronic kidney disease is more common in people aged 65 years or older (38 percent) than in people aged 45–64 years (13 percent) or 18–44 years (7 percent) Chronic kidney disease is more common in women (15 percent) than men (12 percent) Chronic kidney disease is more common in African Americans (16 percent) than in whites (13 percent) or Asians (12 percent). Around 14 percent of Hispanics have chronic kidney disease   Now that you know the facts and understand the severity of CKD, let's answer some important questions about the disease.   What is Chronic Kidney Disease?   CKD is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to properly function. The kidneys can become damaged over time and this damage can lead to kidneys that don't clean/filter a person's blood as well as they should.   When the kidneys aren't able to perform their job duties, this creates waste and water buildup in the body. As you might expect, this contributes to other health problems as this waste and water accumulate.   The biggest problem with chronic kidney disease is the lack of symptoms initially, as they tend to be more gradual. We'll get into some of those symptoms in a minute.   What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease?   The two main causes of chronic kidney disease, according to Kidney.org[2], are diabetes and high blood pressure.   Diabetes occurs when a person's blood sugar levels are too high. When this happens, the person can experience damage to their organs and blood vessels.   High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the pressure in the walls of the blood vessels increases to dangerous levels. High blood pressure can lead to increase risks of heart attack, stroke, and, of course, chronic kidney disease.   Other causes or risk factors include:   A family history of kidney problems Glomerulonephritis – a group of diseases that cause inflammation and damage to the kidneys' filtering capabilities Polycystic kidney disease – an inherited disorder that causes cysts to develop in the kidneys   What are the Five Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease?   They are five stages of CKD. According to Fresenius Kidney Care[3], these are the characteristics of each stage:   Stage 1 – Kidney damage that still allows for normal kidney function. Stage 2 – Kidney damage with a mild loss of function. Stage 3 – Broken up into two stages, 3a includes mild to moderate loss of kidney function; 3b includes moderate to severe loss of kidney function. Stage 4 – Severe loss of kidney function. Stage 5 – Kidney failure, which will require dialysis and/or a kidney transplant.   What are the Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease?   Unfortunately, the disease process can take years before symptoms are present, and this is true for CKD. Chronic kidney symptoms, according to Kidney.org, include:   Fatigue and loss of energy Difficulty with concentration and focus Lack of appetite Difficulty sleeping Muscle cramping at night Swelling in feet and/or ankles Puffiness around the eyes Itchy, dry skin Frequent urination, especially at night   Please remember, these symptoms can take years to develop. By the time you experience symptoms, you could be further along in the disease process than you might imagine. Symptoms for CKD don't show up quickly like email. They take their time, like Pony Express.   How is Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosed?   Diagnosis of CKD is done using a combination of the following:   A thorough medical history A physical examination A urine dipstick test – measures pathological changes to a person's urine Blood testing, like measuring a person's serum creatine level   There is some dispute today whether the creatinine test is really the best option, as the Cystatin C test may be better for muscular men.   Anyone who has the risk factors for chronic kidney disease should get tested and this includes older Americans who may not have diabetes or high blood pressure and those individuals in a higher-risk population, like African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Native Americans.   How to Treat Chronic Kidney Disease?   Chronic kidney disease treatment is more disease management than anything else since the damage cannot be fixed, according to The American Kidney Fund.[4]   For this reason, it's important to stop the damage from getting worse. To this end, there are several treatment protocols that The American Kidney Fund recommends:   Stabilize your blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes Maintain a healthy blood pressure Eat a healthy diet – low salt, low fat Exercise at least 30 minutes each day or engage in other physical activities Maintain a healthy weight for your body type and height Do not smoke or use tobacco products Limit your alcohol consumption Ask your doctor what medications may help control your CKD   The point worth remembering is this: You can catch CKD early and make the positive changes listed above or let your kidneys eventually fail. For this reason, prevention is always going to trump treatment, and this is very true when it comes to chronic kidney disease.   If you're interested in preventing chronic kidney disease, simply follow those recommendations above before CKD develops.   How Fast Does Chronic Kidney Disease Progress?   As you've learned already, chronic kidney disease can take years to develop before symptoms are present. However, according to Randy Chen, MD[5], a practicing nephrologist with San Mateo County, the progression of CKD depends on other factors.   Both the cause of your chronic kidney disease and your current stage are important. The results of your blood tests – which can help your doctor determine the trends in your kidney health – are equally important. And finally, Chen points out that while the progression can be slow, those in poorer health will experience faster progression of CKD.   How Can Chronic Kidney Disease be Reversed?   Unfortunately, CKD cannot be reversed. However, it can be managed. The first step is to get tested and determine if you have chronic kidney disease. All subsequent steps involve the management/treatment options we listed above in the chronic kidney disease treatment section.   Can Chronic Kidney Disease Cause UTI?   UTI is short for urinary tract infections. Germs and bacteria can get into the urinary tract and multiply. The result is usually a combination of swelling, redness, and pain. The greater problem is that if left untreated, it can get worse and cause a more serious infection. However, it does not appear that CKD causes UTIs.   How Long Can You Live with Chronic Kidney Disease?   According to LifeOptions.org, "how long you can live with CKD depends on your age, other health problems, and how involved you become in your care."   Most people who have CKD will never have their kidneys fail and many people who do have kidney failure can still live for decades afterward with dialysis or a kidney transplant.   Advances in healthcare have come a long way. There are better drugs for chronic kidney disease, more knowledge about the disease, and better dialysis machines helping people manage their CKD.   However, according to LifeOptions.org[6], the most important factor in determining how your CKD will progress is you. If you take responsibility for your health and make the necessary changes, you can live well with chronic kidney disease. And do you know where that personal responsibility begins? Getting tested!   We're going to end this post with words of advice from Fresenius Kidney Care:   "Getting tested to check your kidney health is critical to your current and future well-being. Whether you and your doctor are seeking a diagnosis or monitoring how well your treatment plan is working, acting early is always best. For CKD, the sooner your doctor can confirm a diagnosis, the earlier you can get started on an effective treatment plan to help preserve kidney function and slow progression."   If you're interested in getting tested for chronic kidney disease, Discounted Labs has six laboratory tests that can measure your kidney function. Please consult with your healthcare provider for specific testing instructions and preparation requirements:   CMP - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel   The comprehensive metabolic panel or chemical screening, (CMP) is a panel of 14 blood tests which serves as an initial medical screening tool to review overall health. The CMP functions as a check for kidney function, liver function, and electrolyte and fluid balance.   Aldosterone, Serum   Aldosterone (ALD) is one of a group of connected hormones. They form the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system; this system is activated when there is a decrease in blood flow to your kidneys following a drop in blood volume or blood pressure such as during heavy bleeding, or sodium levels fall below healthy levels.   Cystatin C with EGFR Blood Test   The cystatin C test (which also includes estimated creatinine clearance eGFR) can be done along with creatinine or creatinine clearance test in cases where those tests aren't appropriate. Since the concentration of cystatin C in the blood will not change due to infection or inflammation and isn't affected by body weight, drugs, or diet - cystatin C level could be a more reliable indicator of kidney health than creatinine.   Electrolyte Panel   The electrolyte panel includes carbon dioxide, chloride, potassium, and sodium.   Uric Acid (Serum)   Uric acid is a product produced by the body after the purines in many foods undergo the digestive process and are broken down inside the body. After this breakdown process, the uric acid travels through the bloodstream into your kidneys, and most are actually eliminated through the urinary tract via urination. Excess uric acid may indicate CKD.   Urinalysis   The Urinalysis test screens for a variety of conditions including urinary bladder disease, kidney disease, and diabetes. Many systemic illnesses can affect results and significant deviations from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.   Be kind to your kidneys. Get tested today!   Sources & References   1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States, 2019 2 Kidney.org, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Symptoms and Causes 3 Fresenius Kidney Center, Diagnosis and Testing for Chronic Kidney Disease 4 The American Kidney Fund, Chronic kidney disease (CKD) 5 Randy Chen, MD, The American Kidney Fund 6 LifeOptions.org, Learn About Kidney Disease FAQ

The human body requires no less than 20 amino acids to function properly. As you probably already know, amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. 10 of these amino acids can be produced by the body and the other 10 need to be taken from the diet. The later ones are called essential amino acids. Homocysteine is an amino acid produced when proteins break down. This substance plays an important role in the body. If its levels are abnormal in the body, it can predispose one to health complications. Keep reading to learn more about homocysteine and how to test for it. Understanding Homocysteine Levels in the Body For the body to function properly, various proteins, minerals, and hormones need to remain in normal ranges. When the levels of one substance get too high or too low, this can cause health complications. This is the case for homocysteine too. Let's take a closer look at homocysteine levels in the body and understand what they mean: Normal levels - less than 15 mcmol/L of blood High levels - 30-100 mcmol/L of blood Dangerously high levels - over 100 mcmol/L of blood These numbers are expressed as micromoles per liter of blood. If your homocysteine levels are up to 30 mcmol/L, you are generally safe. Anything higher can predispose you to health complications including cardiovascular disease. Causes and Symptoms of Obnormal Homocysteine Having abnormal homocysteine levels doesn't usually create symptoms in adults. If symptoms appear, they are subtle and can be ignored easily. That's why you need a proper homocysteine test to check your homocysteine levels. Some of the most popular symptoms reported by patients include fatigue, pale skin, and a tingling sensation in hands and feet. In some cases, people with elevated homocysteine levels also develop mouth sores and dizziness. One of the most popular causes of elevated homocysteine includes a deficiency in vitamin B or folate. This vitamin is essential in numerous body functions and a lack of it can lead to health complications. Other causes of elevated homocysteine levels include kidney disease, psoriasis, bad genetics, or using certain medications. Complications That Could Appear with Elevated Homocysteine Levels It's important to check your homocysteine levels regularly because it can cause severe complications in abnormal quantities. For example, people who have very high levels of this amino acid can develop a heart attack, coronary artery disease, or experience the formation of blood clots inside arteries and veins. In other cases, people with high homocysteine levels can develop neurodegenerative diseases. These are represented by dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. In such cases, the brain shrinks in size, and the person in question will develop serious problems to the nervous systems. Lastly, too much homocysteine in the blood can also lead to osteoporosis. This is characterized by bone fragility and a predisposition to fractures. Treatment Options for Elevated Homocysteine Levels As mentioned earlier, having a deficiency of vitamin B in your body can lead to high homocysteine levels. Increasing your vitamin B intake seems to solve this problem with little to no difficulty. For example, if your test reveals that you have too much homocysteine in your blood, your doctor might recommend dietary changes. Beans, green vegetables, and other foods are rich in vitamin B. You might need to include them more often in your diet. If your deficiency is really high, you might even be required to take vitamin B supplements. These supplements are affordable and they will hopefully fix your vitamin B deficiency. Ideally, you'd want to test your homocysteine levels using a homocysteine test every 2 months. If these levels are normal, your treatment works. If the levels are still too high, you might need to increase your vitamin B intake. At the same time, keep in mind that thyroid problems or other underlying conditions might also increase your homocysteine levels. You should treat these accordingly if your supplementation with vitamin B doesn't seem to fix the problem. How to Use a Homocysteine Test Almost any substance in your body can be tested using a blood sample. All that you have to do is to buy a homocysteine blood test from websites such as DiscountedLabs. Once your order is confirmed, you will be mailed a form that you go with to the nearest blood collection center. For accurate results, fasting for at least 8 hours is preferred before your homocysteine test. Fasting is defined as no consumption of food or beverage other than water for at least 8 hours before testing. Your sample will be analyzed and the results will be emailed to you in 5 business days. Once you have the results, the next step is to compare them against reference values such as the ones mentioned above. You can also go to your doctor to help you interpret the results, especially if your homocysteine levels are elevated. Your healthcare provider might make appropriate diet recommendations to bring your levels of homocysteine down. Order Your Homocysteine Test Today The beauty of direct-to-consumer blood tests is that you can buy them online from reputable websites such as DiscountedLabs and get a complete overview of your health without having to deal with your doctor. This saves time and effort, not to mention that online blood tests are ridiculously cheap these days. Get your homocysteine blood test today and see if you're predisposed to cardiovascular diseases and other health complications.  

Table of Contents What is Prolactin? High Prolactin Consequenses Medications can increase prolactin blood levels in men: When to Get the Prolactin Lab Test: How to order your prolactin test now online.  What is Prolactin?   Prolactin is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that is known for supporting lactation in women but also have many other functions on immune response, myelin coating on nerves, and also enhances LH receptors on testicular Leydig cells so that testosterone can be produced. Prolactin levels peak during REM sleep, and in the early morning. Levels can rise after exercise, meals, sexual intercourse, minor surgical procedures, or following epileptic seizures.   High Prolactin Consequenses High prolactin can decrease testosterone and cause sexual dysfunction. Normal prolactin blood level in men range between 2 and 18 ng/dLHigh blood levels of prolactin are more common than low levels. Hyperprolactinemia (Prolactin > 50 ng/dL) is the most frequent abnormality of the anterior pituitary tumors, termed prolactinomas. Prolactinomas may disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis as prolactin tends to suppress the secretion of GnRH– hormone responsible for activating the pituitary to male Luteinizing and Follicle Stimulating hormones- LH and FSH) therefore causing low testosterone and sperm production. Such hormonal changes may manifest as impotence in males. Inappropriate lactation in men is another important clinical sign of prolactinomas (yes, men's breast tissue can produce small amounts of milk if high prolactin blood levels are present).However,low prolactin blood levels have also been found to be linked to sexual dysfunction and other issues.  Since prolactin seems to be involved in immune response and heart muscle integrity, keeping healthy levels is important.Substantial elevation in prolactin (>50 ng/mL) usually indicates a pituitary tumor. Very high levels of prolactin are associated with larger tumors. Prolactinomas are classified as microadenomas (<10 mm) and macroadenomas (>10 mm). The finding of a substantial elevation in blood levels of prolactin association with a pituitary lesion larger than 10 mm by radiographic analysis supports the diagnosis of a macroprolactinoma.Modest levels of prolactin elevation (25–50 ng/mL) may be associated with several diagnoses. All other causes of hyperprolactinemia should be excluded before a tumor is considered. Primary hypothyroidism and chronic renal disease is associated with elevations in prolactin, probably because of altered metabolism or clearance of prolactin. Medications can increase prolactin blood levels in men:   This table was obtained from Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2007 Oct; 3(5): 929–951.)   When to Get the Prolactin Lab Test:   1- Men not on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) with very low levels of total testosterone (T level <150 ng/dL), especially if lower than normal LH is observed. For such male patients, testing for prolactin is used as screening for a potential pituitary gland problem (these men are referred to MRI) 2- Men with fluid production from their nipples. This has been observed in some men on anabolic steroids. 3- Men who have been on optimized TRT (TT levels above 500 ng/dL with free testosterone > 2 percent of TT) who complain of erectile dysfunction after at least 8-12 weeks of therapy. Prolactin is not usually included in baseline lab work due to cost and the fact that the incidence of high prolactin in men is about 5 percent, making it not economically justified. However, if baseline total testosterone is very low or optimized TRT fails to improve ED, prolactin testing could be justified. Treatment of High Prolactin: Due to its long half life and strong attachment to the prolactin receptor, the use of an ergot derivate at 0.25- 1 mg per week has become the main treatment of choice as a way to decrease prolactin in men on TRT.  An ergot derivative, is a potent dopamine receptor agonist on D2 receptors. In vitro, rat studies show this medication has a direct inhibitory effect on pituitary lactotroph (prolactin) cells. It is frequently used as a first-line agent in the management of prolactinomas due to higher affinity for D2 receptor sites, less severe side effects, and more convenient dosing schedule than the older treatment for this condition. In a small studydone in men with very high prolactin (>1000 ng/dL) due to a pituitary tumor, a escalating dosing regimen improved prolactin and sexual function.  In another pilot study that enrolled men with ED who had with a median prolactin blood level of 31 ng/dL, a dose of 0.5 mg twice daily of a prolactin blocking medication brought levels down to a median of 4.9 ng/dL and improved sexual function.  It is advisable to start at 0.2-0.5 mg once per week and then recheck blood levels after 4 weeks to ensure that prolactin is not reduced under 2 ng/dL (both high and low prolactin can cause ED). Note: Some online forums have fueled the unmonitored use of prolactin blocking drugs as a way to boost erectile function and decrease refractory (the time that takes to recover before having sex again) time after an orgasm. There is a concern with unmonitored use of this drug is that men may be driving their prolactin too low which results in the opposite effect they are seeking. How to order your prolactin test now online.  Test Preparation: For accurate prolactin test results, overnight fasting is preferred. Fasting is defined as no consumption of food or beverage other than water for at least 8-10 hours before testing.

Did you know that testosterone deficiency has a prevalence of up to 40% in adult males in the United States? A man is deficient in testosterone when his T levels fall below 300 ng/dL of blood. Although this is slightly worrisome news, there are multiple testosterone replacement options you can take advantage of these days. This article focuses on some of the most important testosterone products in 2023. Keep reading to learn key facts, statistics, price ranges, and optimal dosages related to your favorite testosterone products. Top Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options You Have in 2023 Fortunately, there are many ways you can get more testosterone into your system. There are patches, pellets, gels, injections, and even oral capsules that you can take once or twice a day. If you don't really fancy having to inject testosterone once a week, you can take capsules orally and reap all the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy. The following is a quick list of testosterone replacement products you can take advantage of to increase blood T levels. Administration of T products should only be done according to the strict guidance of your TRT doctor. FDA-Approved Testosterone Brands Androderm: Androderm is a transdermal testosterone patch that delivers testosterone through the skin. It is applied daily to maintain stable testosterone levels in men with low testosterone due to certain medical conditions[1]. This option is no longer used by most doctors since its efficacy was not good and it caused skin irritation. AndroGel: AndroGel is a topical testosterone gel that is applied directly to the skin, typically on the upper arms, shoulders, or abdomen. It is designed for daily use to help maintain consistent testosterone levels for men with low testosterone[1]. It comes in two concentrations. Fortesta: Fortesta is another topical testosterone gel applied to the skin, usually on the front and inner thighs. It is used for testosterone replacement therapy in males with low testosterone levels[2]. Testim: Testim is a testosterone gel applied daily to the skin, typically on the upper arms and shoulders, to help maintain consistent testosterone levels in men with low testosterone due to certain medical conditions[1]. Depo-Testosterone: Depo-Testosterone is an injectable form of testosterone prescribed for men with low testosterone levels. It is administered by a healthcare professional at regular intervals, typically every two to four weeks[2]. Testopel is a subcutaneous testosterone pellet that a medical professional implants under the skin. The pellets release testosterone over an extended period, typically three to six months[2]. Aveed: Aveed is an injectable testosterone undecanoate solution designed for long-acting testosterone replacement therapy. It is administered by a healthcare professional at regular intervals, typically every 10 weeks after an initial loading phase[2]. Natesto: Natesto is a testosterone nasal gel that is applied inside the nostrils for testosterone replacement therapy. It is used to treat men with low testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions[2]. Vogelxo: Vogelxo is a topical testosterone gel applied daily to the skin, usually on the upper arms, shoulders, or abdomen. It is used for testosterone replacement therapy in males with low testosterone levels[2]. Xyosted: Xyosted is a subcutaneous testosterone enanthate autoinjector for weekly self-administration. It is prescribed for men with low testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions[2]. Jatenzo: Jatenzo is an oral testosterone undecanoate capsule that the FDA has approved to treat certain types of hypogonadism in men. It is taken orally to help maintain stable testosterone levels in men with low testosterone [2] Testosterone Treatment Prices and Dosing Androgel 1% Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 55-85 for the generic pump, 90-190 for 50 mg generic packets; also, around 650 USD for Brand 50 mg packets Delivery mode: pump and/or packet Dosage: 25 mg/2.5 g or 50mg/5g Where to apply shoulders, upper arms or on the abdomen Starting dosage: 50 mg daily dose early in the morning When to measure: in the morning before applying the gel Androgel 1.62% Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 40-140 for the generic pump, 620-640 for Brand pump Delivery mode: pump and/or packet Dosage: 20.25 mg or 40.5 mg Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: 40.5 mg daily dose early in the morning When to measure in the morning before applying the gel Testim 1% Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): around 600-610 for packets Delivery mode: pump Dosage: 20.25 mg per actuation Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: one pump on each shoulder for a total of 40.5 mg early in the morning, it can also be applied on inner thighs When to measure: in the morning before applying the gel Fortesta 2% Delivery mode: pump Dosage: 50 mg or 100 mg Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: two pumps daily in the morning on each thigh When to measure: 2 hours after applying a dose Vogelxo Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 100-350 for 1% pump, 120-350 for generic packets Delivery mode: shoulders or upper arms Dosage: 50 mg from 4 actuations of 12.5 mg testosterone Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: 50 mg daily in the morning When to measure before applying a dose Androderm Delivery mode: patch applied at night after 10 PM Dosage: 2 mg per day, 2.5 mg per day, 4 mg per day or 5 mg per day Where to apply: abdomen, upper arms, thighs, back Starting dosage: 4 mg per day When to measure: 12 hours after skin application Natesto Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 195-300 for 5.5 mg/actuation Delivery mode: intranasal pump Dosage: 5.5 mg per pump actuation Where to apply intranasal Starting dosage: 11 mg (2 actuations) 3 times per day at an interval of 6-8 hours When to measure: 2 hours after nasal application Jatenzo Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): around 950 for 237 mg BID pill Delivery mode: oral capsule Dosage: 158 mg, 198 mg, or 237 mg Where to apply oral Starting dosage: 237 mg capsule twice a day (one in the morning, one in the evening) When to measure: 6 hours after the morning dose Testopel Delivery mode: pellet Dosage: 75 mg per pellet Where to apply can be inserted under the skin, in the fat of the buttocks, thigh or lower abdominal wall Starting dosage: 150-450 mg every 3 to 6 months When to measure: at the end of the dosing interval Aveed Delivery mode: injectable solution Dosage: 100 mg/10 ml vial, 200 mg/1-10 ml vial or 750 mg/3 ml vial Where to apply: intramuscular in the glute or thigh muscles Starting dosage: 750 mg (3 ml) in the beginning, then after 4 weeks then after every 10 weeks; 75-100 mg/week also or 150-200 mg every 2 weeks When to measure: injections are administered every 10 weeks and T measurement should be done somewhere in between injections (after 5 weeks or so since the last one) Xyosted Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 455-575 for 50 mg, 75 mg and 100 mg injections Delivery mode: the solution is placed in the autoinjector Dosage: 50 mg, 75 mg or 100 mg respectively Where to apply: in the abdominal region under the skin Starting dosage: 75 mg applied under the skin once a week When to measure T levels: trough concentrations are measured 7 days after the most recent dose and only after 6 weeks since the beginning of treatment. These are just a few popular testosterone replacement products available in the US. Keep in mind that you can also procure testosterone enanthate in 5 ml (1000mgs) vials from certain pharmacies. This option usually costs less than $30 for a 30-day supply and the testosterone can be injected by each patient without requiring a doctor's visit. Similarly, TRT patients can also choose to use generic testosterone cypionate or enanthate as 400 mg to 800 mg per month that can be injected into muscle (deep IM or shallow IM) or under belly fat (subcutaneous) . The price for a 30-day supply starts at around $30 and it can go up to $85 . (Source: GoodRx). Other affordable sources of testosterone treatments can be purchased from compounding pharmacies like Empower in Houston. Check Out How AUA and ES Guidelines Differ on Testosterone Ranges AUA stands for American Urology Association and ES stands for Endocrine Society. They provide detailed insights and standards on how to interpret hormone levels and blood test results. In some cases, these committees can give different interpretations when it comes to testosterone levels. AUA Guidelines: What is a Normal Testosterone Range and Follow Up? According to the American Urology Association (AUA), you should measure your testosterone levels in the morning after fasting for 12-14 hours to get accurate results. The normal range is between 450 ng/dL and 600 ng/dL of blood. If your levels fall below 300 ng/dL of blood, you are considered to be deficient in testosterone. If you start testosterone replacement therapy, your first evaluation should be between 2 and 4 weeks after beginning treatment. You will also have to attend follow-up visits 6 to 12 months after starting TRT. ES Guidelines: What is a Normal Testosterone Range and Follow Up? On the other hand, the Endocrine Society (ES) gives slightly different reference ranges. For example, the normal testosterone range is between 264 ng/dL and 916 ng/dL of blood. The best moment to test your T levels is early in the morning after fasting for 12-14 hours. Testosterone deficiency is confirmed if your T levels fall below 264 ng/dL of blood.  TRT follow up visits should be done after 2-3 months and after 6 to 12 months from the start of your testosterone replacement protocol. How to Get Your Own Affordable Testosterone Test Remember that now it's easier than ever to check your testosterone levels and see if you are a suitable candidate for testosterone replacement therapy. If your T levels fall below 350 ng/dL and have low testosterone symptoms then you should talk with a TRT doctor and see what testosterone replacement options you have. Check your testosterone levels quickly and confidentially by ordering a total and free testosterone test from DiscountedLabs today. Key Terminology and Facts About Testosterone It's important to also have some basic understanding of how testosterone works in the body, so you can make better decisions when talking with your TRT doctor. For instance, the Leydig cells in your testicles produce more than 95% of your testosterone. Testosterone daily production ranges from 3 mg to 11 mg and it peaks early in the morning. Healthy adult males have the highest concentration of testosterone early in the morning and it gradually drops throughout the day. That's why the best time to measure your T levels is early in the morning to get accurate results. Natural Testosterone Short half-life - your testosterone has a half-life between 10 and 100 minutes. It peaks once every 3 hours as the luteinizing hormone stimulates the Leydig cells to produce more testosterone. With the passing of time, these cells become less sensitive to LH and they produce increasingly low T levels. It's estimated that males lose about 1% of their testosterone production every year after the age of 30. 2 percent is free; about 2% of your total testosterone level is free. This means that it circulates freely through the bloodstream and it can bind to other organs or tissues. 70% of your testosterone is bound to sex hormone-binding globulin and nearly 30% is bound to albumin. Testosterone metabolism - fractions of your testosterone are converted into other hormones and substances. For example, from 5% to 8% of your testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone is responsible for prostate maturation and the growth of the body, as well as facial and pubic hair. About 0.3%–0.5% of your testosterone is also converted into estradiol by the aromatase enzyme. Some of the main roles of estradiol in men are involved with libido and bone health. Trough concentration - this refers to the lowest  concentration of a drug in the bloodstream immediately before injecting or administering another dose. It's highly recommended to measure your testosterone levels at trough concentration because this will produce the most accurate results. Based on these results, TRT doctors can make more accurate adjustments to your protocol. Find Out More About Testosterone Products! This is just a brief overview of some of the most popular testosterone products in the US, but there's plenty more high-quality information out there. Visit Excelmale.com and learn everything you need to know about testosterone, TRT, how to interpret your blood test data, and how to tweak your protocol for optimal results. Also, you can download the Testosterone Replacement Options paper from this link.   References: [1] "FDA-approved testosterone formulations include the topical gel, transdermal patch, buccal system (applied to upper gum or inner cheek), and injection. The manufacturers of two prescription..." URL: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/testosterone-information [2] "by Drugs.com Brand names of testosterone include Androderm, AndroGel, Fortesta, Testim, Depo-Testosterone, Testopel, Aveed, Natesto, Vogelxo, Xyosted, Jatenzo, Tlando, and Kyzatrex. Testosterone is an androgen indicated for testosterone replacement therapy in males." URL: https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/brands-testosterone-3510863/   Recommended Sources: Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options | Excel Male TRT Forum Testosterone Replacement Products in the U.S.: Video Review by Nelson Vergel - ExcelMale Testosterone Test Near Me: Your Complete Guide Testosterone levels show steady decrease among young US men