Dear Dr. Bob:

The "Normal" range for testosterone is something like from 200-1000. But is there a "normal" range that is more specific for age. Is 266 "normal" for a 36 year old male? Thanks..

Hello,

Normal ranges tend to vary somewhat form laboratory to laboratory - usually it's 300-1100. The high range is usually seen in younger studs (and those of Italian descent) and gradually decreases as we become old farts. So you're 36. That's a lot closer to young stud than old fart. If you are experiencing symptoms possibly related to low testosterone - fatigue, loss of muscle mass, unhappy Mr. Happy, etc. - I'd say a trial of testosterone supplements would be worth a try. I'd like to see your testosterone level in the 500-1100 range. One other thing to consider: Try testing "free testosterone." You may have a "low normal" total testosterone, but when you break it down, you could find that your "free testosterone" is below the "normal" range. The "free" portion is that part which is active in the blood. The rest is "protein bound" and is not active.

Good luck. Hope things are looking "up" for you very soon.

Dr. Bob