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When Do Patients Need Bloodwork?

Bloodwork Recommendations for TRT, Weight Loss, and Peptide Therapy

Regular bloodwork is essential for monitoring health, optimizing treatment effectiveness, and preventing potential side effects. Whether undergoing Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), weight loss treatments, or peptide therapy, periodic lab testing helps ensure patients receive the safest and most effective care. Below is a guide to recommended bloodwork based on each treatment category.

Bloodwork for TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy)

Recommended Tests:

  • Total Testosterone & Free Testosterone – Measures overall testosterone levels and bioavailable testosterone.
  • Estradiol (E2, Sensitive Assay) – Checks estrogen levels to prevent imbalances.
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Evaluates red blood cell count, hematocrit, and hemoglobin to monitor risks like polycythemia (excess red blood cells).
  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) – Assesses liver and kidney function.
  • Lipid Panel – Evaluates cholesterol levels, as TRT can impact lipid metabolism.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) – Screens for prostate health, especially for men over 40.
  • Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) – Helps determine free testosterone levels.
  • DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) – Monitors conversion of testosterone to DHT, which can affect hair loss and prostate health.

Frequency:

  • Baseline bloodwork before starting TRT
  • 4-8 weeks after starting or adjusting dosage
  • Every 6-12 months for long-term monitoring

Bloodwork for Weight Loss Medications (Tirzepatide, Semaglutide, etc.)

Recommended Tests:

  • Fasting Blood Glucose & Hemoglobin A1C – Monitors blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.
  • Lipid Panel – Assesses cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as some weight loss medications impact lipid metabolism.
  • Liver Function Tests (AST, ALT) – Ensures liver health, especially with medications that affect metabolism.
  • Thyroid Panel (TSH, Free T3, Free T4) – Evaluates thyroid function, as thyroid health plays a critical role in metabolism and weight loss.
  • Electrolyte Panel (Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium) – Ensures balanced electrolyte levels, which can be affected by appetite suppression or dietary changes.
  • Kidney Function (Creatinine, BUN, eGFR) – Important for hydration and metabolic health, as some weight loss medications can impact kidney function.

Frequency:

  • Baseline bloodwork before starting treatment
  • Every 6-12 months for monitoring effectiveness and safety

Bloodwork for Peptide Therapy (CJC-1295/Ipamorelin, BPC-157, Tesamorelin, etc.)

Recommended Tests:

  • IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1) – Measures growth hormone activity, essential for monitoring peptides that influence GH production.
  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) – Assesses kidney and liver function.
  • Fasting Blood Glucose & Hemoglobin A1C – Important for peptides that influence metabolism, such as Tesamorelin.
  • Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium) – Monitors hydration and muscle function.
  • Lipid Panel – Checks for changes in cholesterol and triglycerides.
  • Thyroid Panel (TSH, Free T3, Free T4) – Ensures optimal thyroid function, as peptides can influence metabolic rate.

Frequency:

  • Baseline bloodwork before starting peptide therapy
  • Every 6-12 months for monitoring progress and safety

Final Recommendations

Regular bloodwork ensures hormonal balance, metabolic health, and overall well-being while undergoing TRT, weight loss treatments, or peptide therapy. Patients should follow their provider’s recommendations and schedule timely lab tests to maximize the benefits and minimize risks associated with these therapies.