From the Guidelines
Normal testosterone levels for a 38-year-old male typically range between 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) of blood, with the average being around 600 ng/dL. This range can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and testing method used 1. Testosterone levels are usually highest in the morning, so blood tests are often scheduled before 10 AM for the most accurate results.
Key Points to Consider
- Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for developing male physical characteristics, maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and supporting sexual and reproductive function.
- Levels naturally decline with age, typically by about 1-2% per year after age 30, as noted in the guideline from the American College of Physicians 1.
- If you're concerned about your testosterone levels, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider who can order appropriate tests and interpret the results in the context of your overall health and any symptoms you might be experiencing.
Factors Influencing Testosterone Production
- Obesity
- Chronic illness
- Certain medications
- Lifestyle choices It's crucial to address these factors and discuss them with a healthcare provider to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of testosterone levels, as suggested by the American College of Physicians guideline 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients with Cavg within the normal range of 300 ng/dL to 1000 ng/dL on Day 112.
The normal testosterone levels for a 38-year-old male are between 300 ng/dL to 1000 ng/dL 2.
From the Research
Normal Testosterone Levels
- The normal testosterone levels in a 38-year-old male are not explicitly stated in the provided studies.
- However, study 3 mentions that hypogonadism is defined as testosterone < 300 ng/mL.
- The same study reports that the average post-treatment testosterone level was 573 ng/dL in the clomiphene citrate group and 553 ng/dL in the testosterone gel replacement therapy group.
- Study 4 notes that older men have on average lower testosterone concentrations compared with younger men, but does not provide specific values for a 38-year-old male.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
- Study 5 discusses the goal of androgen substitution, which is to replace testosterone at levels as close to physiological concentrations as possible.
- The study also mentions that parenteral testosterone undecanoate can produce normal plasma testosterone levels for 12 weeks, and subcutaneous testosterone implants can provide normal plasma testosterone levels for 3-6 months.
- Study 6 provides an updated review of the diagnostic hallmarks, treatment modalities, and how to individualize and monitor treatment to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
Age-Related Testosterone Levels
- Study 4 mentions that older men have on average lower testosterone concentrations compared with younger men.
- However, the study does not provide specific information on the normal testosterone levels for a 38-year-old male.
- Study 3 reports that the average age of men receiving clomiphene citrate was 42 years, while the average age of men receiving testosterone gel replacement therapy was 57 years.