Tag: Testosterone

With the global dietary supplements market projected to continue its rapid growth, more consumers are seeking performance-enhancing alternatives like turkesterone and tongkat ali. But when it comes to performance, which is better, turkesterone or tongkat ali? This detailed guide breaks down the science, claims, and risks of each to help you make an informed decision.

Studies show that chronic opioid use is a significant cause of low testosterone, a condition known as opioid-induced androgen deficiency (OPIAD), with a prevalence as high as 63% in male users [1.11.1, 1.11.3]. So, does tramadol lower testosterone levels? The evidence strongly indicates that long-term use can indeed suppress this vital hormone.

In 2023, bupropion was the 17th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with over 30 million prescriptions [1.9.5]. A common question among users is, can bupropion mess with hormones? The answer is complex, with effects varying across different hormonal systems.

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that produce hormones, regulating nearly every bodily function, from metabolism to mood. Because this system is so intricately balanced, any exogenous substance can disrupt its delicate equilibrium, answering the question: **can drugs mess up your hormones?** The answer is a definitive yes, though the effects can range from temporary and mild to long-lasting and significant.

Millions of people worldwide undergo hormone replacement therapy, but the question remains, **What is the safest hormone to take?** The answer is complex and highly dependent on individual health, lifestyle, and specific hormonal needs, requiring personalized medical consultation.

Studies show that several antidepressants, including the tricyclic amitriptyline, can influence the endocrine system [1.4.7]. Understanding this connection is key, so the question arises: can amitriptyline affect your hormones in clinically significant ways?

According to studies on transdermal testosterone delivery, approximately 9–14% of the dose applied in gel form is absorbed into systemic circulation. This confirms that yes, **testosterone can be absorbed through the skin** effectively, a property leveraged for modern testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

In 2021, approximately 4.7% of the US adult population reported using a gabapentinoid medication [1.7.2, 1.7.5]. With such widespread use, many patients ask: **does gabapentin affect hormone levels?** The answer is complex, with evidence pointing to both direct and indirect effects on the body's endocrine system.

While standard testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for hypogonadism typically involves lower dosages, a dosage of 300 mg of testosterone a week pushes levels into a supraphysiological range, carrying significantly higher risks of adverse health effects. This higher dose is not medically sanctioned for treatment and is primarily associated with non-medical use for performance enhancement.

Most synthetic progestins used in hormonal contraceptives are derived from testosterone and retain varying degrees of androgenic activity [1.7.7]. Understanding which progesterone has the most androgenic effect, such as second-generation progestins like levonorgestrel and norgestrel, is key to managing potential side effects [1.7.3].