👉 The Effects of Testosterone on the Body - First Cycle Info

[heavyiron]

The effects of Testosterone

by John Connor

One of the most common question I’m asked is “what should I do for a first cycle?” The questions are; “what steroid should I take?” “How long should I take it?” and “What will the effects be?” There are literally dozens of steroids available and that makes it difficult for a first time user to choose. The following information will attempt to provide enough information for a first time user to make an educated decision about anabolic androgenic steroid use.

Testosterone is one of the most effective, safe and available steroids today, therefore I believe Testosterone is the best first cycle choice. The following text outlines the benefits and risks of Testosterone administration based on a clinical human trial of 61 healthy men in 2001. The purpose of the trial was to determine the dose dependency of testosterone’s effects on fat-free mass and muscle performance. In this trial 61 men, 18-35 years old were randomized into 5 groups receiving weekly injections of 25, 50, 125, 300, 600 mg of Testosterone Enanthate for 20 weeks. They had previous weight-lifting experience and normal T levels. Their nutritional intake was standardized and they did not undertake any strength training during the trial. The only two groups that reported significant muscle building benefits were the 300 and 600 mg groups so any dose lower than 300mg will not be considered in this essay. 12 men participated in the 300 mg group and 13 men in the 600 mg group.

600mg of Testosterone a week for 20 weeks resulted in the following benefits. Increased fat free mass, muscle strength, muscle power, muscle volume, hemoglobin and IGF-1.

The same 600 mg administration resulted in 2 side effects. HDL cholesterol was negatively correlated and 2 men developed acne.

The normal range for total T in men is 241-827 ng/dl according to Labcorp and 260-1000 ng/dl according to Quest Laboratories. The normal range for IGF-1 is 81-225 according to Labcorp. Total T and IGF-1 levels were taken after 16 weeks and resulted in the following;

Total Testosterone
300 mg group-1,345 ng/dl a 691 ng increase from baseline
600 mg group-2,370 ng/dl a 1,737 ng increase from baseline

IGF-1
300 mg group-388 ng/dl a 74 ng increase from baseline
600 mg group-304 ng/dl a 77 ng increase from baseline

Body composition was measured after 20 weeks.

Fat Free Mass by underwater weighing
300 mg group-5.2kg (11.4lbs) increase
600 mg group-7.9kg (17.38lbs) increase

Fat Mass by underwater weighing
300 mg group-.5kg (1.1lbs) decrease
600 mg group-1.1kg (2.42lbs) decrease

Thigh Muscle Volume
300 mg group-84 cubic centimeter increase
600 mg group-126 cubic centimeter increase

Quadriceps Muscle Volume
300 mg group-43 cubic centimeter increase
600 mg group-68 cubic centimeter increase

Leg Press Strength
300 mg group-72.2kg (158.8lbs) increase
600 mg group-76.5kg (168.3lbs) increase

Leg Power
300 mg group-38.6 watt increase
600 mg group-48.1 watt increase

Hemoglobin
300 mg group-6.1 gram per liter increase
600 mg group-14.2 gram per liter increase

Plasma HDL Cholesterol
300 mg group-5.7 mg/dl decrease
600 mg group-8.4 mg/dl decrease

Acne
300 mg group-7 of the 12 men developed acne
600 mg group-2 of the 13 men developed acne

There were no significant changes in PSA or liver enzymes at any dose up to 600mg. However, long-term effects of androgen administration on the prostate, cardiovascular risk, and behavior are unknown. The study demonstrated that there is a dose dependent relationship with testosterone administration. In other words the more testosterone administered the greater the muscle building effects and potential for side effects.

Given the results of the study and based on years of personal experience I believe the first time user can safely use between 300-600 mg of testosterone enanthate or cypionate per week for 8-12 weeks. Because it is desirable to have even blood androgen levels I advise at least 2 equal injections per week. The following graph demonstrates that testosterone cypionate peaks within 1-2 days after injection and falls off to almost baseline by day 10. Therefore waiting 7 days between injections of cypionate would cause wide fluctuations in blood androgen levels.

Pharmacokinetics of Testosterone cypionate Injection

Source: Schulte-Beerbuhl, 1980 Figure. Pharmacokinetics of 200mg Testosterone cypionate injection. Source: Comparison of Testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone in serum after injection of Testosterone enanthate or Testosterone cypionate. Schulte-Beerbuhl M, Nieschlag E. Fertility and Sterility 33 (1980) 201-3.

If a first time user wanted to use 600 mg of cypionate or enanthate per week he would inject 300 mg on Tuesday and another 300 mg on Saturday each week for 10 weeks. When injecting long heavy esters like cypionate with this frequency I tend to have less acne then 1 injection per week.

There are a number of esters which provide varying release times. Acetate or propionate esters extend the release time of testosterone a couple of days. In contrast, a deconate ester prolongs the release of testosterone about 3 weeks. Testosterone enanthate and cypionate are almost identical esters. The use of an ester allows for a less frequent injection schedule than using a water based testosterone like suspension which has no ester at all and is rapidly in and out of your system after injection. The published release times are not exact and are many times based on a single injection not many multiple injections which can delay the release of the hormone. Other factors affect release times of esters such as scar tissue and the muscle group injected. Only a blood test can confirm when the active hormone has cleared your system.

Esters not only effect release times but also the potency of the Testosterone as esters make up part of the steroid weight. This must be taken into account when calculating dosages. The longer the release time the less free hormone. For example propionate is about 15% more potent mg. for mg. then enanthate so 500mg of propionate would equal about 575 mg. of enanthate. The following chart illustrates the free base equivalents for several compounds.

Although it was not indicated in the trial, during or after the steroid cycle some men are prone to gynecomastia which is the formation of female like breast tissue. This is due to excessive estrogen as the body tries to balance out the sex hormones. A selective estrogen receptor modulator or S.E.R.M. such as Tamoxifen can be used effectively to combat gynecamastia in an emergency as it competes for the estrogen receptor which in turn inhibits estrogen’s effects. It is highly recommended that a S.E.R.M. be available during treatment of Testosterone. 10-40mg daily is an effective dose however dosage is dependent on how much testosterone is administered as well as the individual himself.

The decision to use steroids should not be taken lightly and should be the last consideration after implementing a solid nutritional, training and recovery plan. It is advised to get blood work when using these medications.

Ancillaries during the cycle​

Aromatase Inhibitor

I briefly wrote about using Tamoxifen above for emergency gynecomastia treatment however I’m convinced that there is a better strategy for controlling estrogen during a steroid cycle. Rather than waiting for the side effects of estrogen to present an aromatase inhibitor like Arimidex or Aromasin should be used on cycle to control Estrogen and keep free testosterone levels high. 0.5mg-1mg Arimidex every other day OR 10-25mg Aromasin daily. Start with the lower dose and then see how that controls water retention, blood pressure and libido and make adjustments as needed. A blood test would be the most ideal way to determine the dosage of the AI. Free T needs to be in the high range and estradiol between 10-30 pg/ml.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

Testosterone-Induced gonadotropin suppression tends to cause atrophy of the testes and decreases intratesticular testosterone. In other words, when a male administers testosterone his testes shrink because they are suppressed. A simple way to restore ITT levels and maintain the mass of the testes is to administer HCG during testosterone treatment. During a study it was determined that HCG is dose dependent and that approximately 300iu HCG taken every other day restored ITT levels. This is 1,050iu HCG weekly. I recommend 500iu twice weekly while on testosterone treatment. HCG will not only keep ITT levels and the mass of the testes normal but will also aid in keeping the male fertile.

Sample cycle with ancillaries

Sunday 10mg Aromasin
Monday 10mg Aromasin/500iu HCG
Tuesday 10mg Aromasin/300mg Enanthate
Wednesday 10mg Aromasin
Thursday 10mg Aromasin
Friday 10mg Aromasin/500iu HCG
Saturday 10mg Aromasin/300mg Enanthate

For all you guys who want to add multiple compounds to your first course I advise against it because if you have side effects then you will not know which compound is causing the sides. I have gotten a ton of questions over the years and there is always some reason that I’m given for using multiple compounds on the first run but there really is no need. However my cycle sample above may not be for everyone so I am offering an alternative to the flat cycle design. If you want to run a first cycle with a little more horsepower then you may want to consider a modified pyramiding cycle. I have done over 20 pyramid courses and must say they are my favorite way to run AAS. The human body is always fighting for homeostasis so the concept is to increase dose before gains plateau. Based on the 2009 myostatin study we can design a cycle that is effective for 10 weeks using this strategy. The following first cycle is for men that want a little more performance with added risk while only using Testosterone. The first 5 weeks a standard dose is administered to evaluate how your body responds and to determine if sides are manageable. If sides are manageable then increase the dose.

Sample first course #2

Week 1-5 600mg Testosterone weekly
Week 6-8 800mg Testosterone weekly
Week 9-10 1 gram Testosterone weekly

10-25 mg Aromasin daily with the goal of keeping Estradiol between 10pg/ml-30pg/ml. Only blood work can confirm if you are in this range.

500iu HCG twice weekly.

Post Cycle therapy

I strongly believe that an AI should be used as long as there is an aromatizing compound being administered. In this case Testosterone and HCG aromatize therefore using an AI until these meds clear is what I’m recommending. Nolvadex has been shown to reduce IGF-1 and GH levels when used alone. This is not a big deal on cycle as testosterone increases IGF-1 in a dose dependent relationship. However off cycle this is may be a problem. PCT is a fragile time and lower IGF-1 and GH levels are not desirable. More advanced users may opt to use Nolvadex and Human Growth Hormone during PCT to counter the HGH lowering effect of Nolvedex. However, I’m recommending AI’s that may be used on cycle and during PCT. It’s my conclusion that Aromasin or Arimidex are both good choices.

I recommend the following PCT protocol for esters like Cypionate and Enanthate;

While the AAS ester is clearing : 2500iu HCG every third day for 2 weeks. (You may use less HCG if your testes are normal in size AND you have been using HCG on cycle, i.e. 1,000iu HCG every third day.)

100/100/100/50 Clomid (50mg taken twice per day weeks 1-3 AFTER the AAS ester clears)

20mg/20mg/20mg Aromasin (20mg daily for 3 weeks)

3g Vit C every day split in 3 doses

10g creatine daily

The HCG is administered BEFORE the AAS ester clears to increase the mass of the testes and bring back ITT levels. This will allow the testes to sustain output of testosterone sooner.

Clomid is universally accepted as THE testosterone recovery tool. It blocks estrogen from the HPTA and stimulates the production of GNRH then initiates the production of LH, which in turn signals the testis (if not atrophied) to produce testosterone.

Aromasin or a similar aromatase inhibitor is for testosterone recovery and it is used to keep the testosterone/estrogen balance in favor of testosterone. It is also helps to keep any additionally occurring estrogen from HCG low to none.

Cortisol is catabolic. It is the enemy of all anabolism and must be kept in check. While it is blocked when under the influence of AAS, it is free to attach to the Anabolic Receptors (AR) once the steroids leave. Due to this blockage Cortisol tends to accumulate and increase when on. A low level is desirable however since it is important for other vital functions such as control of inflammation. Balance is the key. Vitamin C keeps the exercise induced rise of Cortisol in check.

The use of Creatine has shown to increase ATP metabolism and cellular water storage among many other things. This is beneficial because it provides for heightened nutrient storage and a slight increase in anabolism as well as workout stamina.

Failed Post Cycle Therapy

Sometimes a single post cycle therapy is insufficient to restore healthy testosterone levels and a second post cycle therapy may be needed. In that case I would advise a simple clomid HPTA restart at 50mg daily for 4-6 weeks.

References:
1.Testosterone dose-response relationships in healthy young men;
2.Pharmacokinetics and Dose Finding of a Potent Aromatase Inhibitor, Aromasin (Exemestane), in Young Males
3.Low-Dose Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Maintains Intratesticular Testosterone in Normal Men with Testosterone-Induced Gonadotropin Suppression
4.Use of clomiphene citrate to reverse premature andropause secondary to steroid abuse.
5.Changes in the Endocrinological Milieu After Clomiphene Citrate Treatment for Oligozoospermia: The Clinical Significance of the Estradiol/Testosterone Ratio as a Prognostic Value
6.Testicular steroidogenesis after human chorionic gonadotropin desensitization in rats.
7.Effect of tamoxifen on GH and IGF-1 serum level in stage I-II breast cancer patients
8.Treatment of gynecomastia with tamoxifen: A double-blind crossover study
9.Role of testosterone/estradiol ratio in predicting the efficacy of tamoxifen citrate treatment in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men.

The Effects of Testosterone on the Body – IronMag Bodybuilding & Fitness Blog

www.ironmagazine.com

 

[Vision]

@everyone

 

[Cdub]

Great thread very informative as I’m currently starting my 1st cycle .

 

[qwik]

also please please please get ur bloodwork guys

 

[Coach Anderson]

Information 100 percent accurate. I read the 600mg group results. Test CYP or Enth is not toxic.

Blood work and vitals are always important to have.

Because you have 3 things you don’t want to fuck with.

1. Cholesterol levels keep the veins clean don’t give your self a heart attack down the road. In your blood work get the calcium index score see what shape your veins are in. Closest thing to a Contrast CT scan.

2. Blood pressure. Don’t run high you will fuck your kidneys. You could need a transplant if you have high blood pressure on a chronic level. HAVE A DR HANDLE BLOOD PRESSURE MEDICATION DONT ATTEMP ON YOUR OWN YOU KNOCK IT DOWN TO QUICK AND LOW YOU CAN DIE.

3. In the RBC PANNEL The main markers are the Plate count with factoring the Hemo C and Hemo G.

Now this is important IF YOUR HEMO C AND G ARE OVER BUT YOUR PLATE COUNT IS IN RANGE SEE A HEMO DOCTOR SO HE CAN TEACH YOU WHAT THE REAL DETERMINING FACTORS FOR CLOTS AND STROKES AND THEY WILL TEACH YOU HOW TO READ YOUR BLOOD WORK WITH MUTABLE FACTORS. The markers paint a picture and if you are useing hormones you need to know these markers so you know when you need to dump blood and when you don’t.

But get a HEMO doctor who is a specialist in reading blood work.

Regular Internal doctors panic at times if the see a hemo number go above 50 but the plate count is what causes clots.

For my fellow friends who use HGH you need to understand your T-4 and T-3 levels. Most of the time taking T-4 is the way to fix the problem.

You should be monitor your glucose levels so you don’t give yourself diabetes.

Cause liver IGF-1 which is the best IGF-1 has a feed back loop that HGH TRIGGERS and could over work your pancreas.

Now the interesting thing is IGF-1 RDNA AND IGF-1 LR3 will lower glucose levels.
So to my friends who take insulin 45mins after your HGH shot which is a long acting insulin to take the burden of the pancreas. Well you could use synthetic IGF-1 to lower glucose instead of insulin.

Which is good cause if you make a mistake it won’t kill you. Insulin can be dangerous. So you can’t mess up with it.

You can have other side effects but before you put anything in your body you should know any thing that will come up.

Just my 2pennys. But always run what I say to the real smart people who I have the pleasure of talking to and they good people they don’t want to see people get them selfs in trouble and they really do care for members.

You may not get the awnser you want but guys like Fletch, Vision and Seattlebest don’t want people doing dangerous things.

But the OP did a great breakdown on the study’s on test dosage and effects on your body.

 

[HFO4]

great breakdown...worth the read

 

[oldbull]

Howdy, this thread seemed to break down the basics the best, which is why I am replying to it — also to reference some of the things mentioned.

To provide some context, I’m a 44-year-old male who’s been weightlifting for over 25 years and always made decent progress naturally without steroids. Over the past couple years, though, I have noticed a marked impediment to gaining strength at the same time I have seen a substantial decrease in sex drive.

My guess is both problems are related to testosterone but I am reluctant to go through the medical establishment to seek help. My impression is that doctors will order extremely invasive tests and procedures that will take an extraordinary long time. Given that I have a bit of a medical phobia, I’d like to avoid such shenanigans.

At the same time, I admit I am not terribly technical-minded and have problems with attention to detail. The prospect of getting blood tests and deciphering an appropriate testosterone regiment based on them is not particularly appealing either.

The pinned post above refers to healthy males with normal testosterone taking 300-600 mg of test cyp. My question is, why does the bloodwork matter if these guys were able to take this standard dosage without problem regardless of their testosterone level?

To follow on that that, would it really matter if I took a lower dose — say 200 mg or even 100 mg — to give myself a “boost” over whatever my current level is, but without going as high as the participants in this study?

Wouldn’t that negate many of the health problems that folks worry about and have to adjust for with the higher dosages?

I have to admit that part of the reason I am reluctant to do the blood tests, etc., is that I would be hiding any testosterone usage from my wife, who shares my home. She would assume I have returned to some of the reckless substance-related behavior of my youth and it’d be a whole issue explaining that it’s not like I’m going off the rails. It will probably be hard enough intercepting packages of test cyp or whatever, and so I want to minimize the chances of her finding bloodwork or any related correspondence that would tip her off.

So, basically, my plan is to order test cyp, use a much lower dosage than the men in this study, and hopefully see some improvement in my weight lifting and sex drive. Or would that in fact be dangerous?

Also, though I have been weightlifting for a long time, much of the discussions on these forums are way above my head. How can I find out the basics, like the differences between test enan and test cyp and all the other products offered by the sponsors? How do I figure out the equivalent dosages across different categories — for example, what is the equivalent of 200 mg of test cyp with test enan?

I’m frankly even confused by the basics, such as how deeply I’d need to insert the syringe, where I’d need to insert it, and where I’d even acquire the syringes! I’m also aware that buying product requires bitcoin but I am highly confused about the procedures beyond that, in terms of how to exchange the bitcoin and with whom and at what point in the transaction. I sent a question about this to one of the sponsors but did not receive a reply beyond getting the product list, probably because my level of ignorance was so high that I may not have seemed worth the effort.

So, long story short, if nothing else, I’d like to find out how to learn the basics about all this stuff. I have tried searching the forums for answers but the results are usually way above my level of understanding.

I apologize for the long-winded post and thank anyone who’s taken the time to read it, let alone reply!

 

[davidsheart]

Wow great stuff… thank you for taking the time to post this.. greatly appreciated.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Battousai]

Good to see the soldiers fighting Skynet are using steroids. That will level tge playing field a bit

 

[Skyman]

Howdy, this thread seemed to break down the basics the best, which is why I am replying to it — also to reference some of the things mentioned.

To provide some context, I’m a 44-year-old male who’s been weightlifting for over 25 years and always made decent progress naturally without steroids. Over the past couple years, though, I have noticed a marked impediment to gaining strength at the same time I have seen a substantial decrease in sex drive.

My guess is both problems are related to testosterone but I am reluctant to go through the medical establishment to seek help. My impression is that doctors will order extremely invasive tests and procedures that will take an extraordinary long time. Given that I have a bit of a medical phobia, I’d like to avoid such shenanigans.

At the same time, I admit I am not terribly technical-minded and have problems with attention to detail. The prospect of getting blood tests and deciphering an appropriate testosterone regiment based on them is not particularly appealing either.

The pinned post above refers to healthy males with normal testosterone taking 300-600 mg of test cyp. My question is, why does the bloodwork matter if these guys were able to take this standard dosage without problem regardless of their testosterone level?

To follow on that that, would it really matter if I took a lower dose — say 200 mg or even 100 mg — to give myself a “boost” over whatever my current level is, but without going as high as the participants in this study?

Wouldn’t that negate many of the health problems that folks worry about and have to adjust for with the higher dosages?

I have to admit that part of the reason I am reluctant to do the blood tests, etc., is that I would be hiding any testosterone usage from my wife, who shares my home. She would assume I have returned to some of the reckless substance-related behavior of my youth and it’d be a whole issue explaining that it’s not like I’m going off the rails. It will probably be hard enough intercepting packages of test cyp or whatever, and so I want to minimize the chances of her finding bloodwork or any related correspondence that would tip her off.

So, basically, my plan is to order test cyp, use a much lower dosage than the men in this study, and hopefully see some improvement in my weight lifting and sex drive. Or would that in fact be dangerous?

Also, though I have been weightlifting for a long time, much of the discussions on these forums are way above my head. How can I find out the basics, like the differences between test enan and test cyp and all the other products offered by the sponsors? How do I figure out the equivalent dosages across different categories — for example, what is the equivalent of 200 mg of test cyp with test enan?

I’m frankly even confused by the basics, such as how deeply I’d need to insert the syringe, where I’d need to insert it, and where I’d even acquire the syringes! I’m also aware that buying product requires bitcoin but I am highly confused about the procedures beyond that, in terms of how to exchange the bitcoin and with whom and at what point in the transaction. I sent a question about this to one of the sponsors but did not receive a reply beyond getting the product list, probably because my level of ignorance was so high that I may not have seemed worth the effort.

So, long story short, if nothing else, I’d like to find out how to learn the basics about all this stuff. I have tried searching the forums for answers but the results are usually way above my level of understanding.

I apologize for the long-winded post and thank anyone who’s taken the time to read it, let alone reply!

You want to at least take a TRT level of test. Micro dose test you could end up with lower testosterone levels than you currently have.

 

[BRGymBuddy]

Really helpful. Thanks for sharing all of this.

 

[Coach Anderson]

I wish Tren had the same profile on the body as Testosterone CYP or ETH. Everybody be walking around vascular as fuck. Also I wish it didn’t raise prolactin levels. But it does so I hope some scientists can invent a drug that meets my wish.

Tren is such a ball buster to get off. But you have to before you damage your heart and other vital things like blood pressure.

That’s why when you compare it to test you can see what a toxic vs non toxic drug looks like.

Test is very forgiving compared to some other compounds.

But at the end of the day get your blood tests. If I’m on just Test and MASTRON every months blood test.

If I’m on TREN every 6 weeks blood test.
But just cause a drug is less toxic doesn’t mean you can skip blood work.

Do it correctly so you don’t mess up your body.

 

[Steramine]

Thank you for all the info!!
Not first cycle but still new and first time
getting my own.

 

[Kwattz211]

Thanks for all the info, very detailed.

 

[JakeMeatzHyperTrophy]

Great knowledge and write up - really loving all the information on here- keep it coming guys.

 

[AdillaKlara]

I started with 300mg per week and eventually bumped to 500mg, split into two doses, and that worked best for keeping sides low and energy up. I’ve been using Balkan Pharmaceuticals for my cycles—they’ve been consistent so far, and I’ve had solid results without weird crashes. Just make sure your AI and PCT are dialed in before you even pin the first dose.

 

[Drnis2995]

Wish I had seen this when I started taking Test. Great thread with a ton of information! Have it locked in now but could’ve used this sooner.

 

[DivingAstronomer]

An amazing read! Thank you so much for the data, breakdown, and guidance!

 

[1017Bricksquad]

The effects of Testosterone

by John Connor

One of the most common question I’m asked is “what should I do for a first cycle?” The questions are; “what steroid should I take?” “How long should I take it?” and “What will the effects be?” There are literally dozens of steroids available and that makes it difficult for a first time user to choose. The following information will attempt to provide enough information for a first time user to make an educated decision about anabolic androgenic steroid use.

Testosterone is one of the most effective, safe and available steroids today, therefore I believe Testosterone is the best first cycle choice. The following text outlines the benefits and risks of Testosterone administration based on a clinical human trial of 61 healthy men in 2001. The purpose of the trial was to determine the dose dependency of testosterone’s effects on fat-free mass and muscle performance. In this trial 61 men, 18-35 years old were randomized into 5 groups receiving weekly injections of 25, 50, 125, 300, 600 mg of Testosterone Enanthate for 20 weeks. They had previous weight-lifting experience and normal T levels. Their nutritional intake was standardized and they did not undertake any strength training during the trial. The only two groups that reported significant muscle building benefits were the 300 and 600 mg groups so any dose lower than 300mg will not be considered in this essay. 12 men participated in the 300 mg group and 13 men in the 600 mg group.

600mg of Testosterone a week for 20 weeks resulted in the following benefits. Increased fat free mass, muscle strength, muscle power, muscle volume, hemoglobin and IGF-1.

The same 600 mg administration resulted in 2 side effects. HDL cholesterol was negatively correlated and 2 men developed acne.

The normal range for total T in men is 241-827 ng/dl according to Labcorp and 260-1000 ng/dl according to Quest Laboratories. The normal range for IGF-1 is 81-225 according to Labcorp. Total T and IGF-1 levels were taken after 16 weeks and resulted in the following;

Total Testosterone
300 mg group-1,345 ng/dl a 691 ng increase from baseline
600 mg group-2,370 ng/dl a 1,737 ng increase from baseline

IGF-1
300 mg group-388 ng/dl a 74 ng increase from baseline
600 mg group-304 ng/dl a 77 ng increase from baseline

Body composition was measured after 20 weeks.

Fat Free Mass by underwater weighing
300 mg group-5.2kg (11.4lbs) increase
600 mg group-7.9kg (17.38lbs) increase

Fat Mass by underwater weighing
300 mg group-.5kg (1.1lbs) decrease
600 mg group-1.1kg (2.42lbs) decrease

Thigh Muscle Volume
300 mg group-84 cubic centimeter increase
600 mg group-126 cubic centimeter increase

Quadriceps Muscle Volume
300 mg group-43 cubic centimeter increase
600 mg group-68 cubic centimeter increase

Leg Press Strength
300 mg group-72.2kg (158.8lbs) increase
600 mg group-76.5kg (168.3lbs) increase

Leg Power
300 mg group-38.6 watt increase
600 mg group-48.1 watt increase

Hemoglobin
300 mg group-6.1 gram per liter increase
600 mg group-14.2 gram per liter increase

Plasma HDL Cholesterol
300 mg group-5.7 mg/dl decrease
600 mg group-8.4 mg/dl decrease

Acne
300 mg group-7 of the 12 men developed acne
600 mg group-2 of the 13 men developed acne

There were no significant changes in PSA or liver enzymes at any dose up to 600mg. However, long-term effects of androgen administration on the prostate, cardiovascular risk, and behavior are unknown. The study demonstrated that there is a dose dependent relationship with testosterone administration. In other words the more testosterone administered the greater the muscle building effects and potential for side effects.

Given the results of the study and based on years of personal experience I believe the first time user can safely use between 300-600 mg of testosterone enanthate or cypionate per week for 8-12 weeks. Because it is desirable to have even blood androgen levels I advise at least 2 equal injections per week. The following graph demonstrates that testosterone cypionate peaks within 1-2 days after injection and falls off to almost baseline by day 10. Therefore waiting 7 days between injections of cypionate would cause wide fluctuations in blood androgen levels.

Pharmacokinetics of Testosterone cypionate Injection

Source: Schulte-Beerbuhl, 1980 Figure. Pharmacokinetics of 200mg Testosterone cypionate injection. Source: Comparison of Testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone in serum after injection of Testosterone enanthate or Testosterone cypionate. Schulte-Beerbuhl M, Nieschlag E. Fertility and Sterility 33 (1980) 201-3.

If a first time user wanted to use 600 mg of cypionate or enanthate per week he would inject 300 mg on Tuesday and another 300 mg on Saturday each week for 10 weeks. When injecting long heavy esters like cypionate with this frequency I tend to have less acne then 1 injection per week.

There are a number of esters which provide varying release times. Acetate or propionate esters extend the release time of testosterone a couple of days. In contrast, a deconate ester prolongs the release of testosterone about 3 weeks. Testosterone enanthate and cypionate are almost identical esters. The use of an ester allows for a less frequent injection schedule than using a water based testosterone like suspension which has no ester at all and is rapidly in and out of your system after injection. The published release times are not exact and are many times based on a single injection not many multiple injections which can delay the release of the hormone. Other factors affect release times of esters such as scar tissue and the muscle group injected. Only a blood test can confirm when the active hormone has cleared your system.

Esters not only effect release times but also the potency of the Testosterone as esters make up part of the steroid weight. This must be taken into account when calculating dosages. The longer the release time the less free hormone. For example propionate is about 15% more potent mg. for mg. then enanthate so 500mg of propionate would equal about 575 mg. of enanthate. The following chart illustrates the free base equivalents for several compounds.

Although it was not indicated in the trial, during or after the steroid cycle some men are prone to gynecomastia which is the formation of female like breast tissue. This is due to excessive estrogen as the body tries to balance out the sex hormones. A selective estrogen receptor modulator or S.E.R.M. such as Tamoxifen can be used effectively to combat gynecamastia in an emergency as it competes for the estrogen receptor which in turn inhibits estrogen’s effects. It is highly recommended that a S.E.R.M. be available during treatment of Testosterone. 10-40mg daily is an effective dose however dosage is dependent on how much testosterone is administered as well as the individual himself.

The decision to use steroids should not be taken lightly and should be the last consideration after implementing a solid nutritional, training and recovery plan. It is advised to get blood work when using these medications.

Ancillaries during the cycle​

Aromatase Inhibitor

I briefly wrote about using Tamoxifen above for emergency gynecomastia treatment however I’m convinced that there is a better strategy for controlling estrogen during a steroid cycle. Rather than waiting for the side effects of estrogen to present an aromatase inhibitor like Arimidex or Aromasin should be used on cycle to control Estrogen and keep free testosterone levels high. 0.5mg-1mg Arimidex every other day OR 10-25mg Aromasin daily. Start with the lower dose and then see how that controls water retention, blood pressure and libido and make adjustments as needed. A blood test would be the most ideal way to determine the dosage of the AI. Free T needs to be in the high range and estradiol between 10-30 pg/ml.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

Testosterone-Induced gonadotropin suppression tends to cause atrophy of the testes and decreases intratesticular testosterone. In other words, when a male administers testosterone his testes shrink because they are suppressed. A simple way to restore ITT levels and maintain the mass of the testes is to administer HCG during testosterone treatment. During a study it was determined that HCG is dose dependent and that approximately 300iu HCG taken every other day restored ITT levels. This is 1,050iu HCG weekly. I recommend 500iu twice weekly while on testosterone treatment. HCG will not only keep ITT levels and the mass of the testes normal but will also aid in keeping the male fertile.

Sample cycle with ancillaries

Sunday 10mg Aromasin
Monday 10mg Aromasin/500iu HCG
Tuesday 10mg Aromasin/300mg Enanthate
Wednesday 10mg Aromasin
Thursday 10mg Aromasin
Friday 10mg Aromasin/500iu HCG
Saturday 10mg Aromasin/300mg Enanthate

For all you guys who want to add multiple compounds to your first course I advise against it because if you have side effects then you will not know which compound is causing the sides. I have gotten a ton of questions over the years and there is always some reason that I’m given for using multiple compounds on the first run but there really is no need. However my cycle sample above may not be for everyone so I am offering an alternative to the flat cycle design. If you want to run a first cycle with a little more horsepower then you may want to consider a modified pyramiding cycle. I have done over 20 pyramid courses and must say they are my favorite way to run AAS. The human body is always fighting for homeostasis so the concept is to increase dose before gains plateau. Based on the 2009 myostatin study we can design a cycle that is effective for 10 weeks using this strategy. The following first cycle is for men that want a little more performance with added risk while only using Testosterone. The first 5 weeks a standard dose is administered to evaluate how your body responds and to determine if sides are manageable. If sides are manageable then increase the dose.

Sample first course #2

Week 1-5 600mg Testosterone weekly
Week 6-8 800mg Testosterone weekly
Week 9-10 1 gram Testosterone weekly

10-25 mg Aromasin daily with the goal of keeping Estradiol between 10pg/ml-30pg/ml. Only blood work can confirm if you are in this range.

500iu HCG twice weekly.

Post Cycle therapy

I strongly believe that an AI should be used as long as there is an aromatizing compound being administered. In this case Testosterone and HCG aromatize therefore using an AI until these meds clear is what I’m recommending. Nolvadex has been shown to reduce IGF-1 and GH levels when used alone. This is not a big deal on cycle as testosterone increases IGF-1 in a dose dependent relationship. However off cycle this is may be a problem. PCT is a fragile time and lower IGF-1 and GH levels are not desirable. More advanced users may opt to use Nolvadex and Human Growth Hormone during PCT to counter the HGH lowering effect of Nolvedex. However, I’m recommending AI’s that may be used on cycle and during PCT. It’s my conclusion that Aromasin or Arimidex are both good choices.

I recommend the following PCT protocol for esters like Cypionate and Enanthate;

While the AAS ester is clearing : 2500iu HCG every third day for 2 weeks. (You may use less HCG if your testes are normal in size AND you have been using HCG on cycle, i.e. 1,000iu HCG every third day.)

100/100/100/50 Clomid (50mg taken twice per day weeks 1-3 AFTER the AAS ester clears)

20mg/20mg/20mg Aromasin (20mg daily for 3 weeks)

3g Vit C every day split in 3 doses

10g creatine daily

The HCG is administered BEFORE the AAS ester clears to increase the mass of the testes and bring back ITT levels. This will allow the testes to sustain output of testosterone sooner.

Clomid is universally accepted as THE testosterone recovery tool. It blocks estrogen from the HPTA and stimulates the production of GNRH then initiates the production of LH, which in turn signals the testis (if not atrophied) to produce testosterone.

Aromasin or a similar aromatase inhibitor is for testosterone recovery and it is used to keep the testosterone/estrogen balance in favor of testosterone. It is also helps to keep any additionally occurring estrogen from HCG low to none.

Cortisol is catabolic. It is the enemy of all anabolism and must be kept in check. While it is blocked when under the influence of AAS, it is free to attach to the Anabolic Receptors (AR) once the steroids leave. Due to this blockage Cortisol tends to accumulate and increase when on. A low level is desirable however since it is important for other vital functions such as control of inflammation. Balance is the key. Vitamin C keeps the exercise induced rise of Cortisol in check.

The use of Creatine has shown to increase ATP metabolism and cellular water storage among many other things. This is beneficial because it provides for heightened nutrient storage and a slight increase in anabolism as well as workout stamina.

Failed Post Cycle Therapy

Sometimes a single post cycle therapy is insufficient to restore healthy testosterone levels and a second post cycle therapy may be needed. In that case I would advise a simple clomid HPTA restart at 50mg daily for 4-6 weeks.

References:
1.Testosterone dose-response relationships in healthy young men;
2.Pharmacokinetics and Dose Finding of a Potent Aromatase Inhibitor, Aromasin (Exemestane), in Young Males
3.Low-Dose Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Maintains Intratesticular Testosterone in Normal Men with Testosterone-Induced Gonadotropin Suppression
4.Use of clomiphene citrate to reverse premature andropause secondary to steroid abuse.
5.Changes in the Endocrinological Milieu After Clomiphene Citrate Treatment for Oligozoospermia: The Clinical Significance of the Estradiol/Testosterone Ratio as a Prognostic Value
6.Testicular steroidogenesis after human chorionic gonadotropin desensitization in rats.
7.Effect of tamoxifen on GH and IGF-1 serum level in stage I-II breast cancer patients
8.Treatment of gynecomastia with tamoxifen: A double-blind crossover study
9.Role of testosterone/estradiol ratio in predicting the efficacy of tamoxifen citrate treatment in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men.

The Effects of Testosterone on the Body – IronMag Bodybuilding & Fitness Blog

www.ironmagazine.com

Thanks for the information

 

[IronWave86]

I’ve read to start anywhere between 300mg and 600mg per week. That seems like a pretty big range.

 

[Drew416]

I want to start my first cycle in mid to late Oct. I’ve running test c at 100mg a week for the past 3 years as TRT and I break that up into two injections a week.

For running an 8-10 week cycle, would changing to Sus250 net better results for me? Or should I stick with test c

 

[Biggdaddy65]

Acne
300 mg group-7 of the 12 men developed acne
600 mg group-2 of the 13 men developed acne

Interesting that the 600 mg group experienced far less acne sides than the 300 mg group.

 

[Brickedup]

Such good info. For those getting started, less is more. You have no idea how your unique body is going to convert test shots to free and E2. Start low, blood test after 3 months and adjust while taking into account your side effects.

 

[GhostReaper]

Yeah..
I should have thought of that. !!
Z