The patch?

[Vic Mackey]

I meet with my Dr. in 2 days to decide which product we are going to use. I think he is leaning towards the patch........ I need peoples input as to the effectivness of this product. I think I can talk him into whatever product I think I would be betterwith ,, gel, or shots. I need some arguments against the patch I guess is what I'm looking for.

Thanks
Marc

[JanSz]

Originally Posted by Vic Mackey

I meet with my Dr. in 2 days to decide which product we are going to use. I think he is leaning towards the patch........ I need peoples input as to the effectivness of this product. I think I can talk him into whatever product I think I would be betterwith ,, gel, or shots. I need some arguments against the patch I guess is what I'm looking for.

Thanks
Marc

Patch is out regardless of other considerations.

Transdermals only when DHT is low and need to be raised, (think Androgel)

Testosterone when you have primary hypogonadism and no other options

Test first,
either looking at LH & FSH levels
or do
HCG stimulation test, if you can raise testosterone that way,
HCG is a better route, more natural.

For stimulation test and when staying in HCG only:
Look at my post #79, text plus the redlined part of chart.
Jan's BloodTest April13/2007 - Page 3
Jan's BloodTest April13/2007 - Page 3

[MarkLA]

The patch is inconvenient vs. Gel. You have to keep wearing it - that's inconvenient and it might fall off, that's inconvenient too.

For transdermal, gel is better as it avoids those two problems.

Transdermal vs. shots is a more complicated question. Most seem to think its better to start transdermal and see how you do. Adjustments can be made more easily as you don't have to wait 3 half lives before making changes.

Mark

[cpeil2]

Originally Posted by Vic Mackey

I meet with my Dr. in 2 days to decide which product we are going to use. I think he is leaning towards the patch........ I need peoples input as to the effectivness of this product. I think I can talk him into whatever product I think I would be betterwith ,, gel, or shots. I need some arguments against the patch I guess is what I'm looking for.

Thanks
Marc

Patches are expensive. This may not be an issue if insurance is paying. But if you're paying out of pocket, they will run you at least $200/mo .