120 mg test weekly split into 3 pins
Bloodwork almost perfect.
5 workouts weekly.
Slightly reduced volume.
Cruise for the next 8-12 weeks.

440mg test per week.

I’m about 160lb, 5 foot 10 inches tall.

Honestly don’t have much muscle yet. I am by no means fat, but I have a lot more fat on me than I’d like. Aesthetically I value leanness over size, but still want to add size of course bc I am a little bit skinny fat.

Currently I’m eating 2700cal a day with 170g protein.

My mindset is that since I have som extra fat on my body I will recomp and my body will use the protein from diet + fat on my body as fuel to build muscle and burn fat at the same time.

I’m aware I may be building a little less muscle than optimal here because of the lack of surplus, but if I can build muscle while getting lean, then from there add a surplus id be happy.

What are your thoughts? Would love to have a discussion about this.

27 y/o male. Started testosterone in Jan 2026 cause I had low T my whole life (around 200 reading right before starting). My energy and weightlifting numbers have improved, but I went from about 222lbs to 253lbs, and I feel bloated, rounder and not looking more lean like I thought I would.

Is there anything I could do/stop to get better results? Eat less? More cardio? Take peptides in addition?

Hiya

I read the Wiki and a breif online read - but can it be given SubQ like insulin or do all jabs have to be muscle (fom a needle hater)

I'd do it like this all day long but going deep in - scares me a bit - is it something you get used to?

We’re live.

AlphaMD is hosting a two-day AMA for veterans, active military, and anyone with questions about testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

Licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants will be answering general TRT questions during both live sessions.

Live AMA hours:

• Saturday, October 24: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM ET
• Sunday, October 25: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM ET

Ask us about:

• Navigating TRT through the VA, TRICARE, or private telehealth
• Continuing TRT when leaving active service or switching providers
• What records and lab results may help when transferring your care
• TRT questions related to PCS moves, travel, deployment, and continuity of care
• Symptoms that may overlap with sleep problems, stress, mental health conditions, service-related injuries, or medication side effects
• What to ask your military clinician about TRT and medical readiness requirements
• TRT testing, lab results, side effects, and ongoing monitoring
• Fertility and family planning for service members and veterans
• Injections, gels, dosing schedules, and other treatment options
• Fitness, body composition, energy, mood, and sexual health

Veterans and active military are the focus of this AMA, but everyone is welcome to participate.

Military discount

Verified veterans and active military always receive 20% off eligible TRT plans and baseline medications available through AlphaMD. Verification is required.

AMA offer

New patients can use promo code VETAMA26 to receive:

• 50% off the initial TRT consultation
• 50% off the first month after enrollment

The AMA offer is available through November 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. Eligibility requirements, offer terms, and restrictions apply. A licensed clinician must determine whether TRT is medically appropriate. The offer does not guarantee treatment, medication, or a prescription.

Drop your questions below. We’ll be answering them throughout both live sessions.

Please protect your privacy. Do not post your full name, contact information, medical record number, or other identifying health information.

Disclaimer: This AMA is for general education. Replies are not individualized medical advice and do not establish a clinician-patient relationship. Personal diagnosis, eligibility, prescribing, and treatment decisions require a private evaluation with a licensed clinician.

I’m 29, 5’7”, currently around 205 lbs, and looking to lose another 20 lbs while maintaining/building muscle.

I have been using a GLP-1 (currently Ozempic 1mg) alongside testosterone, strength training 4–5x weekly, and a high-protein diet to help with my cut.

I was previously on 120mg of test per week (prescribed by a doctor) and recently increased to 250mg, split into two 125mg injections weekly. The goal was to increase muscle preservation during my weight loss and take advantage of the common benefits of trt including sleep and energy.

Got bloodwork done after approximately 3 weeks on the higher dose, 2 days after my last injection.
Bloodwork:

Total Testosterone: 20.4 → >52 nmol/L (588 → >1,500 ng/dL)
Estradiol: 108 → 139 pmol/L (29 → 38 pg/mL)
Previous dose: 120mg/week
Current dose: 250mg/week (125mg twice weekly)

I’ve also gone from 212 to 205.6 lbs over the past 3 weeks, eating approximately 1,800 calories with 150–170g protein daily.

My main goal is to cut down to around 185 lbs while preserving as much muscle and strength as possible.

I expected testosterone levels to increase with the higher dose, but I was surprised they jumped this much, especially considering estradiol only increased modestly.

I realize 250mg is above a standard TRT dose. I’m not suggesting it’s necessary for cutting.

I just got kind of scared at this insane jump on the bloodwork. I didn’t realize going from 120 to 250 week would do this.

Should I be concerned and lower the dosage back?

If it means anything I’m also on an hcg and AI

My test gave 650 I'm struggling to know if thats really good or just normal, this test was performed after a 24 hour fast and after being awake for roughly 8 hours so not instantly when I woke up.

i am starting test e next week and i am concerned with its effect on (sex drive /libido and mood) I know it builds muscle but i am a bit depressed and unmotivated will it help with that or what???

Hello everyone.

I recently did a 20week TRT with Cypionate 250mg/week and about 4weeks ago I stopped. It has been 2weeks that I'm on HCG and 5 days on Tamoxifen. Also I'm 2 week on Reta. Last year I did Mounjaro for 6 months prescribed by doctor.

But I want to get back on Testo. But I hated the Cypionate, too slow, to thick to apply. I was planning on use Enanthate, I heard that is easier to apply and I can do 2-3x a week with a smaller needle.

So my question is. How dangerous is this change, and should I wait for a bit before going back? Can I go straight back to it? I'm about to get some blood results, so what should I look out if I plan to keep doing TRT?

So long story short 2 years ago I took clenbuterol for 4 months straight with high doses like an idiot and ended up frying my cns and receptors pretty hard. Took a long time to heal but got significantly better after 2 years of being clean and taking nothing other then peptides sometimes. I started testosterone 2 weeks ago and notice some fog/ overstimulated the day after my injections. Im assuming from my hormones peaking and my cns reacting. Does anyone have any tips/advice for my unique scenario. How can I help my cns heal faster / what could I potentially take to help it out as well. Really need help or advice. Ive done alot of research but I would like to hear from other people.

Earlier this spring I started my second cycle of test. I started at 350 mg and worked my way up to 500 mg. Understandably my cardio went to shit. Now that I’m cursing on 125 mg my cardio still hasn’t recovered. First cycle I pct and my cardio was good.

Hey I’ve been currently running into issues in my life which have been causing a lot of problems, persistent tiredness, difficulty in maintaining erections or even getting them in the first place, just no sex drive whatsoever. I’ve been trying to work on myself I’ve lost 20 pounds in the last few months, consider myself pretty healthy but I’m also a first responder who works a 7 day schedule on call for 24 hours, sleep food and consistency are pretty well non existent in my life. I decided to get my levels tested and I came back on first test 10.8 and my second was 15 a few weeks after (a considerably good week for schedule and sleep) just wondering what peoples experiences were like and recommendations. I’ve had some chats with a PCP but they’ve been pretty wishy washy about the whole thing which is understandable but a bit frustrating. Just looking for some advice and how people have navigated the system

Mid-40s andI have all the classic symptoms of low T (fatugue, muscle loss, weight gain, sleep issues, etc., but no loss of libido). So I paid out of pocket through Justlabs to get a testosterone test done through Quest. My results are back. Definitely low. I'm trying to figure out how low this is and options. I sent this to my doctor and asked for an appointment. I'm sure I'll have to do another confirmational blood test. Looking for opinions and thoughts.

TESTOSTERONE, TOTAL, MS: 124

TESTOSTERONE, FREE: 26.4

Embarrassing story but either way looking for genuine advice. I had some buddies who did gear, talk me into trying it out. I did research and convinced myself it was a good idea.. Disclaimer I’m 20. Anyways since I did my first Pin I’ve felt weird about doing this, and I consulted with some more experienced people and ultimately realized this isn’t a smart choice. I currently have a lean athletic build, and great health markers, and realized doing test when not needed solely for recreational purposes is not worth the long term effects, and not a very wise choice. With that being said I’ve only done one injection of 82.5mg Test C. Is there anything I need to do or will the singular shot not affect anything. I did get bloodwork done prior and am wondering when I should get it done again to make sure I’m stabilized. I know there will be a sea of comments calling me stupid, which I agree with, but ultimately I’m looking for advice.

For those of you who didn’t have clinically low testosterone (mine averaged around 400–550) but decided to start TRT anyway, are you glad you did? Has it made a noticeable difference in your energy, mood, motivation, gym performance, or overall quality of life?

Curious to hear your experiences and whether you feel it was worth it.

I’m on prescribed TRT at 100 mg/week, with testosterone around 1,000. I’ve been lifting for 4 months and am currently cutting while making good progress, likely from newbie gains and TRT.

When I start bulking, I’m considering doing my first blast to add serious muscle. For those who have experience, what should I know about the risks and monitoring? I also want to understand how that could affect my bloodwork and prescribed TRT management.

Hey guys

7 months on TRT. On 120mg, pinning daily and test came back high on total test, free test and e2 but that's another story for me to fix.

Before TRT I had 0 back acne, about 2 months in, new dots and I didn't think too much of it. About 4 months in, it was just alot of red spots on my back, I would say there's maybe 70 to 100 dots.

No new acne on my face but some like 3 to 8 dots on my chest.

Went to the doctors to get doxy 5mg and that didn't help after 2 months, I stacked it with 5% benzoyl peroxide and 20% azaelic acid

While the back acne has slightly reduced, but not near anywhere gone or visually better.

Have you guys successfully reduced back acne and what products?

If someone was taking 2.5mg of dutasteride and 175mg of test would their scalp dht be lower than if they took 0.5mg of dut and no added test? Or fin and no test?

I’m asking to understand how scalp dht works kinda and how testosterone works with a 5ar inhibitor

I started taking 25mg in July. My labs were normal, but at the low side of normal.

Total T: 550 ng
Free T: 74 pg
E2: 39 pg
Progesterone: 0.1

At this point I was not seeing progress in the gym, wasn’t feeling bad, but frustrated. Could I feel better? Also, 30%body fat at 180 lbs.

So, I started Enclomiphene 25mg. I feel much better. And am finally making some gains at the gym. Here are the results from a stab yourself at home and send it in lab test:

Total T: 1300 ng
Free T: 26 ng
E2: 57 pg

Again, I’m feeling good. Should I cut the dose? What should I look out for? Surprised my Free T went up to that degree.

My understanding is that gyno is the first sign of trouble, and take my blood pressure is important. Any advice is appreciated.

On my TRT dosage of 200mg test cypionate split into 2x injections/wk, I experience classic low e2 symptoms.

My e2 reading is at the lower end of the reference range so I’m still technically ‘in range’ (15pg/ml).

I’d rather not take more testosterone if I can help it.

I have estradiol valerate tabs on had, 1mg each. Would this be feasible to use to raise my estrogen? If so, what kind of dosing protocol would be good to start with?

I also have access to Trestolone, 50mg/ml. Same question as above.

I do not have access to HCG at the moment.

Thank you for any suggestions you may have

Been on test for 10 months. Gain about 14lbs in muscle while leaning out. Mood is better too. Work out 4-5x a week and my diet is better than what it was. Not perfect dialed in but a def improvement. But over that past almost year I can say my interest in sec has gone way down to where I really don’t care too much anymore if it happens or not. I do take tadalafil too as needed. But even then I just don’t really have a care for it. When the wife and I do have sex it’s fun but a quickly lose interest and lose my erection to half stiff. But it doesn’t bother me if I don’t finish and if I do then cool. Anyone else have this experience?

I wouldn’t call it an issue cause again it’s getting to the point where it doesn’t bother me. It did used to yea. Married 13 years and wife and I typically do have an active sex lifestyle.

Yes I find my wife attractive. No am not gay or bi. No I don’t take interest in men. No I don’t watch porn.

Over the past few years I have consistently been between 450-550 for total t, and a free testosterone of anywhere between 4.5 and 6.5 ng/dl. According to labcorp’s reference ranges this is below the bare minimum of 6.8. My SHBG has been in the high 40’s.

I have all of the hallmark symptoms of low T and am considering pulling the trigger at an online clinic. However, most of the stories I see on here are improvements based on total T. Does anyone have experiences with low FREE testosterone, got on TRT, and saw improvements? I’m not sure if it works the same for “us” as it does for low total T dudes.

Hi folks. Been browsing the sub for info and have found some that is relevant to me. I had a massive brain hemorrhage 10 years ago. The bleed was bad enough that they had to remove part of my cerebellum. My main daily challenges are severe brain fog and chronic fatigue. Also significantly impacted cognitive abilities, which include reasoning and memory.

I got these test results and when I popped them into a chat bot, it told me that I would not be a candidate for TRT. But from what I’ve been reading, even if my testosterone levels are considered “normal” I could still benefit from therapy.

I consider my libido good, considering that I burned out 24/7. I currently take dexamethasone to help me get through my day, but at 46 years old I don’t wanna continue using strong stimulants. Any advice?

1. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
   BUN (Urea Nitrogen): 15 mg/dL | Reference: 7–25 mg/dL 
   Creatinine: 0.85 mg/dL | Reference: 0.60–1.29 mg/dL 
   eGFR: 109 mL/min/1.73m² | Reference: ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m² 
   BUN/Creatinine Ratio: Normal (calculated) 
   Sodium: 138 mmol/L | Reference: 135–146 mmol/L 
   Potassium: 4.6 mmol/L | Reference: 3.5–5.3 mmol/L 
   Chloride: 102 mmol/L | Reference: 98–110 mmol/L 
   Carbon Dioxide: 27 mmol/L | Reference: 20–32 mmol/L 
   Calcium: 9.8 mg/dL | Reference: 8.6–10.3 mg/dL 
   Total Protein: 7.2 g/dL | Reference: 6.1–8.1 g/dL 
   Albumin: 4.9 g/dL | Reference: 3.6–5.1 g/dL 
   Globulin: 2.3 g/dL | Reference: 1.9–3.7 g/dL 
   Albumin/Globulin Ratio: 2.1 | Reference: 1.0–2.5 
   Bilirubin (Total): 0.4 mg/dL | Reference: 0.2–1.2 mg/dL 
   Alkaline Phosphatase: 53 U/L | Reference: 36–130 U/L 
   AST: 14 U/L | Reference: 10–40 U/L 
   ALT: 27 U/L | Reference: 9–46 U/L 

2. Lipid Panel (Cholesterol)
Total Cholesterol: 176 mg/dL | Reference: < 200 mg/dL 
HDL Cholesterol ("Good"): 71 mg/dL | Reference: ≥ 40 mg/dL 
Triglycerides: 87 mg/dL | Reference: < 150 mg/dL 
LDL Cholesterol ("Bad"): 87 mg/dL | Reference: < 100 mg/dL 
Cholesterol / HDL Ratio: 2.5 | Reference: < 5.0 
Non-HDL Cholesterol: 105 mg/dL | Reference: < 130 mg/dL 

3. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential
White Blood Cell (WBC) Count: 7.6 Thousand/µL | Reference: 3.8–10.8 Thousand/µL 
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count: 4.97 Million/µL | Reference: 4.20–5.80 Million/µL 
Hemoglobin: 15.2 g/dL | Reference: 13.2–17.1 g/dL 
Hematocrit: 43.5% | Reference: 39.4–51.1% 
MCV: 87.5 fL | Reference: 81.4–101.7 fL 
MCH: 30.6 pg | Reference: 27.0–33.0 pg 
MCHC: 34.9 g/dL | Reference: 31.6–35.4 g/dL 
RDW: 13.1% | Reference: 11.0–15.0% 
Platelet Count: 267 Thousand/µL | Reference: 140–400 Thousand/µL 
MPV: 9.3 fL | Reference: 7.5–12.5 fL 
Absolute Neutrophils: 4248 cells/µL (55.9%) | Reference: 1500–7800 cells/µL 
Absolute Lymphocytes: 2424 cells/µL (31.9%) | Reference: 850–3900 cells/µL 
Absolute Monocytes: 699 cells/µL (9.2%) | Reference: 200–950 cells/µL 
Absolute Eosinophils: 167 cells/µL (2.2%) | Reference: 15–500 cells/µL 
Absolute Basophils: 61 cells/µL (0.8%) | Reference: 0–200 cells/µL 

4. Hormones & Glycemic Control
Hemoglobin A1c: 5.4% | Reference: < 5.7% (Normal / Low risk) 
Total Testosterone (MS): 475 ng/dL | Reference: 250–1100 ng/dL 
Free Testosterone: 60.4 pg/mL | Reference: 35.0–155.0 pg/mL 
Estradiol: < 30 pg/mL | Reference: ≤ 39 pg/mL 
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin): 37 nmol/L | Reference: 10–50 nmol/L 
Total Cortisol: 8.7 mcg/dL | Reference: 4.0–22.0 mcg/dL (8 a.m.) 
DHEA Sulfate: 251 mcg/dL | Reference: 61–442 mcg/dL 
FSH: 7.3 mIU/mL | Reference: 1.4–12.8 mIU/mL 
LH: 5.3 mIU/mL | Reference: 1.5–9.3 mIU/mL 
TSH (Thyroid): 1.91 mIU/L | Reference: 0.40–4.50 mIU/L 

5. Complete Urinalysis
Color: Yellow | Reference: Yellow 
Appearance: Clear | Reference: Clear 
Specific Gravity: 1.014 | Reference: 1.001–1.035 
pH: 7.0 | Reference: 5.0–8.0 
Glucose, Bilirubin, Ketones, Occult Blood, Protein, Nitrite, Leukocyte Esterase: All Negative 
WBC, RBC, Squamous Cells, Bacteria,

So I unfortunately was diagnosed with a condition that makes it hard if not impossible to lift weights. Problem is im a skinny guy and hard gainer. Ive lost 15lbs of muscle and its a big confidence killer for me now.

My question - im on TRT. Ive ran the dad cycle before but lifted like a madman. It was fantastic. No issues.

Dont bash me for asking - could I run a cycle again, maybe just try push-ups if my body allows, and gain any sort of size back or is the risk just not worth it? Only Test Cyp is all I would ever try or have tried.

I just want to gain back some weight and appear strong again like before. Thought or opinions?