please help

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

-

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

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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.

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

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.

> >

> >

> >

>

>

>

>