The Function of SHBG in Testosterone Therapy

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein made in the liver that binds to testosterone, thereby determining the availability of the hormone in the body. Understanding SHBG’s role is very important for those undergoing testosterone therapy as it determines how much testosterone is available for use.

SHBG and Testosterone Therapy

Controlling Free Testosterone – High SHBG levels lead to low free testosterone, which may cause symptoms of low testosterone even with normal total testosterone levels. 

Symptoms Influence – High SHBG can cause tiredness, low sexual interest, lack of motivation, and muscle loss due to the lack of available testosterone. 

Dosing Considerations – Analysis of SHBG levels before and during testosterone therapy is important to understand. Higher SHBG levels may necessitate a higher dose of testosterone to provide symptom relief.

Age and SHBG Levels – SHBG levels are known to increase with age. This can lead to low free testosterone, and require different treatment strategies.

Effect on Other Hormones – SHBG is also a carrier of estrogen, thus, it is involved in the regulation of the hormonal environment.

Improving SHBG for Better Testosterone Therapy

If SHBG levels are too high, there are ways to address this. These include increasing the testosterone dose and making lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. High free testosterone caused by low SHBG may cause symptoms that are similar to low testosterone. It is crucial to have your hormone specialist check your SHBG levels regularly to attain the best results when it comes to testosterone therapy. Other factors that can influence SHBG levels include liver dysfunction and insulin resistance (prediabetes and diabetes). 

To learn more, schedule a consultation at Axios Health and Wellness located at 700 Ken Pratt Blvd suite 108, Longmont, CO 80501.