Guest guest Posted May 23, 2004 Report Share Posted May 23, 2004 hey dave, This might be a stupid question, but have you ever tried/been on propecia/finasteride/proscar? I am just wondering b/c your problems sound very sudden, and nearly the same to those suffering from finasteride. I myself am, and If you are as well, you should join our group. Finasteride_side_effects Best of luck, Tom dkrzyzek <dkrzyzek@...> wrote: Hello - I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it has been a bit demoralizing. This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I need to put my mind at ease...thanks Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 24, 2004 Report Share Posted May 24, 2004 Did something happen, did you take any medication? Is it stress related. I think its kind of strange to have such a sudden drop naturally. If it did drop that much naturally, then as K4 said its important you find out whether your primary or secondary, treatment would vary depending the situation. You could do a HCG or Clomiphene stimulation test to find out if you're primary or secondary. > Hello - > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > has been a bit demoralizing. > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 24, 2004 Report Share Posted May 24, 2004 Hi, It is tough to find an endocrinologist that will treat men correctly who are suffering from andropause. Most doctors get their info from pharmaceutical reps thta are conservative and provide hormone products they can sell for lots of money. Hormones have been around for decades and are reasonably priced. Hormone pellets are the best from the standpoint of patient use. No day to day involvement and worry about getting it on the family. Every 4 months you get new pellets installed under the skin. A good endo will give you tests to see what is needed and if he can, he will prescribe the messenger hormone that turns on you testicles. If your T is very low, you can freeze your semen for use when you want to have children. Read about the subject. " The Testosterone Syndrome " , by Dr. Shippen, $14.95 at and Noble. Browse it even if you don't buy it. You must have enough info to know when you are being treated by a quack. ernestnolan > Hello - > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > has been a bit demoralizing. > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 24, 2004 Report Share Posted May 24, 2004 Dave, going to an endo is the correct direction. They typically know what to check for and you could have some other medical issue causing low T. You will find resistance from docs for TRT since your levels " are in the correct range " , be prepared for this, you will need to find a doc that will treat you for how you " feel " and not just on lab numbers. The endo should check for the following levels: LH FSH % Free T Free T Prolactin Free T4 TSH Total T Estradiol Then you can base your direction off of these numbers. A key item is to track (from day one) all tests, meds and how you feel on a daily basis. I personally use an Excel sheet I created and also a private Blog (Web Log) to track these items. Prepare for a possible long road and many doc visits and hopefully you are on Ins with work, if not there are still options. We all at one time posted for the first time here and have been in the same boat, some better off and some worse off. Like others said, get info, most of the docs don't know how to treat this. Read the files in the files section. Information is your best tool. Good luck and God bless, Nickso > Hello - > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > has been a bit demoralizing. > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 24, 2004 Report Share Posted May 24, 2004 I only had my T checked. It was 335. My feeling is that long-term celexa (almost 3 years) use may have caused the problem. I think it was a gradual problem...so gradual that it took me a while to notice it. I can remember as far back as November noticing that I didn't have sex on my mind as often as I used to. But I didn't really start to get worried until January. Thanks! > Any idea what may have caused your problem ? What time did you get > your T checked at ? Di you get Lh and FSH tested ? > > > > Hello - > > > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything > extreme > > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > > has been a bit demoralizing. > > > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 24, 2004 Report Share Posted May 24, 2004 Hello - I'm generally a low stress guy so I don't believe stress had anything to do with it. I was on celexa for 3 years, and I have a feeling that's what caused the problem. Other than that, I'm perfectly healthy...I work out a lot and keep my weight down. Thanks! Dave > > Hello - > > > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything > extreme > > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > > has been a bit demoralizing. > > > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 24, 2004 Report Share Posted May 24, 2004 Hello - I have read Dr. Shippen's book, and assuming I have secondary hypo, then it seemd HCG may be the best treatment. Does anyone know how much it costs per month? I've heard it's expensive? And do I have to used clomid as well? Thanks! Dave > > Hello - > > > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme > > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > > has been a bit demoralizing. > > > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 24, 2004 Report Share Posted May 24, 2004 Hi Tom, Nope...I'm on Rogaine and that's it. I'm currently not taking any drugs at all. Thanks Dave > Hello - > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > has been a bit demoralizing. > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > Dave > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 25, 2004 Report Share Posted May 25, 2004 This could be part of the problem but not all of it. Celexa is an SSRI and here is a link about using SSRI's and low T. http://www.mhsanctuary.com/rx/testos.htm Phil dkrzyzek <dkrzyzek@...> wrote: I only had my T checked. It was 335. My feeling is that long-term celexa (almost 3 years) use may have caused the problem. I think it was a gradual problem...so gradual that it took me a while to notice it. I can remember as far back as November noticing that I didn't have sex on my mind as often as I used to. But I didn't really start to get worried until January. Thanks! > Any idea what may have caused your problem ? What time did you get > your T checked at ? Di you get Lh and FSH tested ? > > > > Hello - > > > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything > extreme > > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > > has been a bit demoralizing. > > > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 25, 2004 Report Share Posted May 25, 2004 It's best to get a full hormone profile first, to see what the medication's messed up. I think if it is caused by the drug and its the feedback loop that's messed up, you may be able to restore it with clomid. Read the file on Clomid in the links section retrogrouch uploaded, it might be a good read for your situation as well. > > > Hello - > > > > > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > > > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My > erections > > > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > > > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a > urologist, > > > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra > but > > > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > > > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, > he > > > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > > > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > > > > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > > > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything > extreme > > > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone > my > > > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > > > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading > previous > > > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so > it > > > has been a bit demoralizing. > > > > > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. > I > > > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > > > > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 25, 2004 Report Share Posted May 25, 2004 Thanks to everyone for their help. I am going to stay on Rogaine for the time being. I will talk to the endo about it on the 10th. What do you mean by " feedback loop " ? Thanks again Dave > > > > Hello - > > > > > > > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > > > > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My > > erections > > > > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > > > > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a > > urologist, > > > > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra > > but > > > > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > > > > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, > > he > > > > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > > > > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > > > > > > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will > be > > > > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything > > extreme > > > > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone > > my > > > > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > > > > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading > > previous > > > > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so > > it > > > > has been a bit demoralizing. > > > > > > > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. > > I > > > > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > > > > > > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 25, 2004 Report Share Posted May 25, 2004 when there's too much estrogen in your body, you won't be producing as much T. The hormones I think you should get checked are: LH, FSH, Total T, Free T, Bio Available T, Estradiol, Total Estrogen, TSH. YOu may also want to check your zinc levels as well, as this will have an effect. > > > > > Hello - > > > > > > > > > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) > since > > > > > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My > > > erections > > > > > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the > libido > > > > > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a > > > urologist, > > > > > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on > levitra > > > but > > > > > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My > urologist > > > > > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks > ago, > > > he > > > > > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on > testosterone > > > > > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > > > > > > > > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and > will > > be > > > > > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything > > > extreme > > > > > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for > someone > > > my > > > > > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can > I > > > > > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading > > > previous > > > > > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive > so > > > it > > > > > has been a bit demoralizing. > > > > > > > > > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be > appreciated. > > > I > > > > > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > > > > > > > > > Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 26, 2004 Report Share Posted May 26, 2004 Dave, Make sure you get your ferritin level checked. Ferritin is a protein that transports iron within the body. If you have too much ferritin the result will be an accumulation of iron in your liver, this is called hemochromatosis. I have hemochromatosis. It is very important that you check your ferritin. It is possible to have normal blood iron, normal AST and normal ALT, but have stratospheric ferritin. www.ironoverload.org www.americanhs.org In a message dated 5/23/2004 11:45:15 PM Eastern Daylight Time, dkrzyzek@... writes: Hello - I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it has been a bit demoralizing. This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I need to put my mind at ease...thanks Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 26, 2004 Report Share Posted May 26, 2004 - Thank you. I will have this checked out Dave > Dave, > > Make sure you get your ferritin level checked. Ferritin is a protein that > transports iron within the body. If you have too much ferritin the result will be > an accumulation of iron in your liver, this is called hemochromatosis. I have > hemochromatosis. > > It is very important that you check your ferritin. It is possible to have > normal blood iron, normal AST and normal ALT, but have stratospheric ferritin. > > www.ironoverload.org > www.americanhs.org > > > > > > In a message dated 5/23/2004 11:45:15 PM Eastern Daylight Time, > dkrzyzek@y... writes: > Hello - > > I'm new to the group. My T level has been low (about 330) since > about January. I have low libido and low ejaculate. My erections > are fine when they happen, but are rare because of the libido > problem. I've been to 2 doctors, my family doctor and a urologist, > they've helped very little. My fam. doctor tried me on levitra but > that didn't solve the problem at all, as expected. My urologist > didn't seem to have a clue and when I saw him a few weeks ago, he > said " well maybe we'll think about putting you on testosterone > gel " . He didn't seem to have any idea. > > I finally got an appointment with an endocrinologist and will be > going on 6/10. I'm only 27 so I want to avoid doing anything extreme > such as TRT. I've heard of alternative treatments for someone my > age who wants to remain fertile. What kind of treatment can I > expect? I've read a lot of different things from reading previous > posts. I'm very nervous...I used to have a solid sex drive so it > has been a bit demoralizing. > > This seems like a great group! Any help would be appreciated. I > need to put my mind at ease...thanks > > Dave > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2004 Report Share Posted August 30, 2004 E2 is def very important and u should get that checked out as well. As for the micro-adenomea...do u get headaches, visual problems from it? You should also check out IGF-1 and cortisol, which are impacted by the pitiutary i believe. As for the other tests u have done, it seems ur T levels are higher after u quit propecia, can u tell me what time u took these blood tests? It can impact ur T levels as well. Good luck. > I hope someone can help and offer some insights. I am a 34 yr old > male who has been > suffering from lack of sex drive (and lack of quality erections) > since my mid-20's. I > initially went to my PCP who thought it was in my head, but agreed to > have me tested > for Testosterone. I don't have the results handy, but my Total T > came back in the > normal range and that was that. He did give me some samples of > Viagra, but I didn't > notice anything. (I know that does nothing for drive, but tried > anyway) > > Some time later, I pushed him for more testing and he referred me to > a Urologist who > immediately said it was all in my head. He ordered some more tests > and found a > slightly elevated Prolactin level. Upon hearing this, my PCP wanted > me to see an > Endocrinologist. But, he felt the endo's first response would be > to have an MRI done. > So, that is what my PCP ordered right away. > > The MRI revealed a very tiny benign tumor. I believe it is called a > micro-adenoma. So, > with this news I was off to see the endo. He ordered some testing and > the results > were… > > LH 3.2 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.1 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 13.1 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 9.69 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 3.00 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 323 (241 - 827 reference range) > > At my next visit, he said he would consider supplementation, but > first wanted me to > take some time off of Propecia and then retest. Fair enough, although > my symptoms > started about 18 months prior to me starting on Propecia. But again, > seemed > prudent. My second set of tests were… > > LH 4.4 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.5 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 12.5 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Total T 593 (241 - 827 reference range) > > Upon seeing the results, he said " no go " but would be willing to > retest in 6 months. At > this point, I was back on Propecia. Did that and the results were… > > Prolactin 16.0 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 15.61 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 2.66 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 587 (241 - 827 reference range) > > I don't know why some things were tested and some weren't on > other occasions. > > I have read a lot on this site about Estradiol. Should I have this > tested? Any other tests > I should have done. > > I can not accept an " it's in your head " diagnosis. I haven't > woken w/ an erection in 8 > yrs. And can't believe that's in my head. > > Can anyone offer any insights? Very Frustrating. > > Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2004 Report Share Posted August 30, 2004 I think those types of tumors are usually treatable by medication. I would think you should try that route first - it may be causing you some problems. Maybe, maybe not, but it's worth a try. Find a doc who is experienced in treating pituitary tumors, male hypogonadism, etc. There are some lists in the links and files sections, I believe. You can also post your location and others here might know of docs in your area. Also, a lot of guys on here have had trouble with propecia. I believe it put a lot of them into severe hypogonadism, so you might want to avoid it. But they will chime in to let you know for sure. Mark Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2004 Report Share Posted August 30, 2004 Hi, I don't have personal experience with Propecia, but I expect others here wi= ll suggest discontinuing it immediately and forever. You already saw a big jum= p in T in the test after stopping it. If you type propecia in the Search Arch= ive box you'll find extensive past messages on the subject. Too many doctors think " in range " means T is okay. Your first test's total = T 323 (241 - 827 reference range) is low enough to cause symptoms. Some ranges start at 350. I understand benign pituitary tumors can often be successfully treated with= good outcome. Bruce > I hope someone can help and offer some insights. I am a 34 yr old > male who has been > suffering from lack of sex drive (and lack of quality erections) > since my mid-20's. I > initially went to my PCP who thought it was in my head, but agreed to > have me tested > for Testosterone. I don't have the results handy, but my Total T > came back in the > normal range and that was that. He did give me some samples of > Viagra, but I didn't > notice anything. (I know that does nothing for drive, but tried > anyway) > > Some time later, I pushed him for more testing and he referred me to > a Urologist who > immediately said it was all in my head. He ordered some more tests > and found a > slightly elevated Prolactin level. Upon hearing this, my PCP wanted > me to see an > Endocrinologist. But, he felt the endo's first response would be > to have an MRI done. > So, that is what my PCP ordered right away. > > The MRI revealed a very tiny benign tumor. I believe it is called a > micro-adenoma. So, > with this news I was off to see the endo. He ordered some testing and > the results > were… > > LH 3.2 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.1 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 13.1 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 9.69 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 3.00 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 323 (241 - 827 reference range) > > At my next visit, he said he would consider supplementation, but > first wanted me to > take some time off of Propecia and then retest. Fair enough, although > my symptoms > started about 18 months prior to me starting on Propecia. But again, > seemed > prudent. My second set of tests were… > > LH 4.4 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.5 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 12.5 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Total T 593 (241 - 827 reference range) > > Upon seeing the results, he said " no go " but would be willing to > retest in 6 months. At > this point, I was back on Propecia. Did that and the results were… > > Prolactin 16.0 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 15.61 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 2.66 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 587 (241 - 827 reference range) > > I don't know why some things were tested and some weren't on > other occasions. > > I have read a lot on this site about Estradiol. Should I have this > tested? Any other tests > I should have done. > > I can not accept an " it's in your head " diagnosis. I haven't > woken w/ an erection in 8 > yrs. And can't believe that's in my head. > > Can anyone offer any insights? Very Frustrating. > > Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2004 Report Share Posted August 30, 2004 I'd get 2 opinions on adenoma treatment. If your endo has never treated this before, you probably don't want to be his first. > I understand benign pituitary tumors can often be successfully treated with > good outcome. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2004 Report Share Posted August 30, 2004 Your lab readings are very similar to mine. My total T is in the 500- 600 range as well, but my estradiol is 49.3 which is considered high. I am seeking treatment for this but have yet to receive any. As some of the other folks said, get that tumor treated but have estradiol checked as well. Wouldn't surprise me if it was high. Dave K. > I hope someone can help and offer some insights. I am a 34 yr old > male who has been > suffering from lack of sex drive (and lack of quality erections) > since my mid-20's. I > initially went to my PCP who thought it was in my head, but agreed to > have me tested > for Testosterone. I don't have the results handy, but my Total T > came back in the > normal range and that was that. He did give me some samples of > Viagra, but I didn't > notice anything. (I know that does nothing for drive, but tried > anyway) > > Some time later, I pushed him for more testing and he referred me to > a Urologist who > immediately said it was all in my head. He ordered some more tests > and found a > slightly elevated Prolactin level. Upon hearing this, my PCP wanted > me to see an > Endocrinologist. But, he felt the endo's first response would be > to have an MRI done. > So, that is what my PCP ordered right away. > > The MRI revealed a very tiny benign tumor. I believe it is called a > micro-adenoma. So, > with this news I was off to see the endo. He ordered some testing and > the results > were… > > LH 3.2 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.1 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 13.1 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 9.69 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 3.00 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 323 (241 - 827 reference range) > > At my next visit, he said he would consider supplementation, but > first wanted me to > take some time off of Propecia and then retest. Fair enough, although > my symptoms > started about 18 months prior to me starting on Propecia. But again, > seemed > prudent. My second set of tests were… > > LH 4.4 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.5 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 12.5 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Total T 593 (241 - 827 reference range) > > Upon seeing the results, he said " no go " but would be willing to > retest in 6 months. At > this point, I was back on Propecia. Did that and the results were… > > Prolactin 16.0 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 15.61 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 2.66 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 587 (241 - 827 reference range) > > I don't know why some things were tested and some weren't on > other occasions. > > I have read a lot on this site about Estradiol. Should I have this > tested? Any other tests > I should have done. > > I can not accept an " it's in your head " diagnosis. I haven't > woken w/ an erection in 8 > yrs. And can't believe that's in my head. > > Can anyone offer any insights? Very Frustrating. > > Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2004 Report Share Posted August 30, 2004 The high prolactian can act like high E2, so you can have the same symptoms= of high E2. You have to take charge of your treatment, you need to study and find out w= hat all this means, and how to treat it. My list: 1. Get off the Propecia, it can mess up the HTPA axis or at least DHT level= .. 2. Get more tests, E2, igf-1, thyroid panel, DHEA-S, DHT, maybe some others= 3. Understand treatment options for the pit tumor, there are drugs for that= type that work very well. 4. Look at other options then TRT before starting any form of TRT. 5. Look through the links and files on the left there. 6. Don't leave anything to chance, read and learn and take control of this,= no doctor will. 7. Clean diet, lose weight, exersize, vitamins, etc.... The low LH (which tells the boys to make T) can be brought up with HCG or c= lomiphene citrate. FSH is a concern if you want to get some girl pregnent. > I hope someone can help and offer some insights. I am a 34 yr old > male who has been > suffering from lack of sex drive (and lack of quality erections) > since my mid-20's. I > initially went to my PCP who thought it was in my head, but agreed to > have me tested > for Testosterone. I don't have the results handy, but my Total T > came back in the > normal range and that was that. He did give me some samples of > Viagra, but I didn't > notice anything. (I know that does nothing for drive, but tried > anyway) > > Some time later, I pushed him for more testing and he referred me to > a Urologist who > immediately said it was all in my head. He ordered some more tests > and found a > slightly elevated Prolactin level. Upon hearing this, my PCP wanted > me to see an > Endocrinologist. But, he felt the endo's first response would be > to have an MRI done. > So, that is what my PCP ordered right away. > > The MRI revealed a very tiny benign tumor. I believe it is called a > micro-adenoma. So, > with this news I was off to see the endo. He ordered some testing and > the results > were… > > LH 3.2 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.1 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 13.1 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 9.69 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 3.00 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 323 (241 - 827 reference range) > > At my next visit, he said he would consider supplementation, but > first wanted me to > take some time off of Propecia and then retest. Fair enough, although > my symptoms > started about 18 months prior to me starting on Propecia. But again, > seemed > prudent. My second set of tests were… > > LH 4.4 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.5 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 12.5 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Total T 593 (241 - 827 reference range) > > Upon seeing the results, he said " no go " but would be willing to > retest in 6 months. At > this point, I was back on Propecia. Did that and the results were… > > Prolactin 16.0 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 15.61 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 2.66 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 587 (241 - 827 reference range) > > I don't know why some things were tested and some weren't on > other occasions. > > I have read a lot on this site about Estradiol. Should I have this > tested? Any other tests > I should have done. > > I can not accept an " it's in your head " diagnosis. I haven't > woken w/ an erection in 8 > yrs. And can't believe that's in my head. > > Can anyone offer any insights? Very Frustrating. > > Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2004 Report Share Posted August 30, 2004 Try the group " finasteride_side_effects " . Propecia is bad news for many people. I would drop it ASAP but it may take time to get back to normal > I hope someone can help and offer some insights. I am a 34 yr old > male who has been > suffering from lack of sex drive (and lack of quality erections) > since my mid-20's. I > initially went to my PCP who thought it was in my head, but agreed to > have me tested > for Testosterone. I don't have the results handy, but my Total T > came back in the > normal range and that was that. He did give me some samples of > Viagra, but I didn't > notice anything. (I know that does nothing for drive, but tried > anyway) > > Some time later, I pushed him for more testing and he referred me to > a Urologist who > immediately said it was all in my head. He ordered some more tests > and found a > slightly elevated Prolactin level. Upon hearing this, my PCP wanted > me to see an > Endocrinologist. But, he felt the endo's first response would be > to have an MRI done. > So, that is what my PCP ordered right away. > > The MRI revealed a very tiny benign tumor. I believe it is called a > micro-adenoma. So, > with this news I was off to see the endo. He ordered some testing and > the results > were… > > LH 3.2 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.1 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 13.1 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 9.69 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 3.00 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 323 (241 - 827 reference range) > > At my next visit, he said he would consider supplementation, but > first wanted me to > take some time off of Propecia and then retest. Fair enough, although > my symptoms > started about 18 months prior to me starting on Propecia. But again, > seemed > prudent. My second set of tests were… > > LH 4.4 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.5 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 12.5 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Total T 593 (241 - 827 reference range) > > Upon seeing the results, he said " no go " but would be willing to > retest in 6 months. At > this point, I was back on Propecia. Did that and the results were… > > Prolactin 16.0 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 15.61 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 2.66 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 587 (241 - 827 reference range) > > I don't know why some things were tested and some weren't on > other occasions. > > I have read a lot on this site about Estradiol. Should I have this > tested? Any other tests > I should have done. > > I can not accept an " it's in your head " diagnosis. I haven't > woken w/ an erection in 8 > yrs. And can't believe that's in my head. > > Can anyone offer any insights? Very Frustrating. > > Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 31, 2004 Report Share Posted August 31, 2004 I appreciate everyones feedback. Regarding Propecia, I guess I'll try going off it again, but as I mentioned in my previous post, I had the symptoms for quite some time before ever trying Propecia, so my gut instinct is that it is not the cause. (but probably doesn't help) Also, while my first test score went up after going off it for a while, my sex drive did not improve. The second test that was also higher was taken while I was back on Propecia. Thanks again for the help. ---- > I think those types of tumors are usually treatable by medication. I > would think you should try that route first - it may be causing you > some problems. Maybe, maybe not, but it's worth a try. Find a doc > who is experienced in treating pituitary tumors, male hypogonadism, > etc. There are some lists in the links and files sections, I believe. > You can also post your location and others here might know of docs in > your area. > > Also, a lot of guys on here have had trouble with propecia. I believe > it put a lot of them into severe hypogonadism, so you might want to > avoid it. But they will chime in to let you know for sure. > > Mark Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 31, 2004 Report Share Posted August 31, 2004 You definately need to get off the propecia, that stuff is very harmfull. How long have you been on it? If you've used propecia it could cause elevated E2 levels. You might also want to get prostate examined, get your thyroid checked, and liver enzymes tested as well, as propecia can cause damage to above mentioned. > I hope someone can help and offer some insights. I am a 34 yr old > male who has been > suffering from lack of sex drive (and lack of quality erections) > since my mid-20's. I > initially went to my PCP who thought it was in my head, but agreed to > have me tested > for Testosterone. I don't have the results handy, but my Total T > came back in the > normal range and that was that. He did give me some samples of > Viagra, but I didn't > notice anything. (I know that does nothing for drive, but tried > anyway) > > Some time later, I pushed him for more testing and he referred me to > a Urologist who > immediately said it was all in my head. He ordered some more tests > and found a > slightly elevated Prolactin level. Upon hearing this, my PCP wanted > me to see an > Endocrinologist. But, he felt the endo's first response would be > to have an MRI done. > So, that is what my PCP ordered right away. > > The MRI revealed a very tiny benign tumor. I believe it is called a > micro-adenoma. So, > with this news I was off to see the endo. He ordered some testing and > the results > were… > > LH 3.2 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.1 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 13.1 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 9.69 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 3.00 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 323 (241 - 827 reference range) > > At my next visit, he said he would consider supplementation, but > first wanted me to > take some time off of Propecia and then retest. Fair enough, although > my symptoms > started about 18 months prior to me starting on Propecia. But again, > seemed > prudent. My second set of tests were… > > LH 4.4 MIU/ML (1.7 – 8.6 reference range) > FSH 3.5 MIU/ML (1.5 – 12.4 reference range) > Prolactin 12.5 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Total T 593 (241 - 827 reference range) > > Upon seeing the results, he said " no go " but would be willing to > retest in 6 months. At > this point, I was back on Propecia. Did that and the results were… > > Prolactin 16.0 (4.1 – 18.4 NG/ML reference range) > Free T 15.61 (5.00 – 21.00 NG/ML reference range) done at > Labcorp of America - NJ > Free T% 2.66 (1.00 – 2.70% reference range) > Total T 587 (241 - 827 reference range) > > I don't know why some things were tested and some weren't on > other occasions. > > I have read a lot on this site about Estradiol. Should I have this > tested? Any other tests > I should have done. > > I can not accept an " it's in your head " diagnosis. I haven't > woken w/ an erection in 8 > yrs. And can't believe that's in my head. > > Can anyone offer any insights? Very Frustrating. > > Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 31, 2004 Report Share Posted August 31, 2004 Specifically as relates to: >3. Understand treatment options for the pit tumor, there are drugs for that type that work >very well. What specific drugs are indicated for these benign pituitary tumors? Thanks. Larry S. >Subject: Re: Please Help > >The high prolactan can act like high E2, so you can have the same symptoms of high E2.You have to take charge of your treatment, you need to study and find out what all this means, and how to treat it. > >My list: > >1. Get off the Propecia, it can mess up the HTPA axis or at least DHT level. >2. Get more tests, E2, igf-1, thyroid panel, DHEA-S, DHT, maybe some others >3. Understand treatment options for the pit tumor, there are drugs for that type that work >very well. >4. Look at other options then TRT before starting any form of TRT. >5. Look through the links and files on the left there. >6. Don't leave anything to chance, read and learn and take control of this, no doctor will. >7. Clean diet, lose weight, exersize, vitamins, etc.... > >The low LH (which tells the boys to make T) can be brought up with HCG or clomiphene citrate. FSH is a concern if you want to get some girl pregnent. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 31, 2004 Report Share Posted August 31, 2004 For Prolactin-producing tumors (prolactinomas). The drugs bromocriptine (Parlodel) and cabergoline (Dostinex) can treat these types of tumors by decreasing prolactin secretion and often reducing the size of the tumor. > Specifically as relates to: > > >3. Understand treatment options for the pit tumor, there are drugs for that type that work > >very well. > > > What specific drugs are indicated for these benign pituitary tumors? > > Thanks. > > Larry S. > > > >Subject: Re: Please Help > > > >The high prolactan can act like high E2, so you can have the same symptoms of high E2.You have to take charge of your treatment, you need to study and find out what all this means, and how to treat it. > > > >My list: > > > >1. Get off the Propecia, it can mess up the HTPA axis or at least DHT level. > >2. Get more tests, E2, igf-1, thyroid panel, DHEA-S, DHT, maybe some others > >3. Understand treatment options for the pit tumor, there are drugs for that type that work > >very well. > >4. Look at other options then TRT before starting any form of TRT. > >5. Look through the links and files on the left there. > >6. Don't leave anything to chance, read and learn and take control of this, no doctor will. > >7. Clean diet, lose weight, exersize, vitamins, etc.... > > > >The low LH (which tells the boys to make T) can be brought up with HCG or clomiphene citrate. FSH is a concern if you want to get some girl pregnent. > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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