/WHAT_IT_IS
DHT is a more potent androgen made from testosterone via 5-alpha reductase. It drives much of testosterone's effects on libido, erectile function, and secondary hair growth — but is also implicated in pattern baldness and prostate enlargement.
/NORMAL_RANGE
Adult male reference is roughly 30–85 ng/dL. On TRT, DHT typically rises proportionally to testosterone.
What does high DHT mean?
- +TRT — DHT rises ~2–3x with testosterone therapy.
- +Topical testosterone (creams, gels) — much higher DHT than injections.
- +5-alpha reductase polymorphisms (genetically high).
- +Use of androgen precursors (DHEA, androstenedione).
What does low DHT mean?
- +5-alpha reductase inhibitors (finasteride, dutasteride).
- +Low total testosterone.
- +Genetic 5-alpha reductase deficiency.
/ON_TRT
DHT rises with TRT — usually it's fine, sometimes it's a problem. Topical testosterone (creams applied to scrotum) produces dramatically higher DHT than injections; if you use a cream and have pattern baldness or high PSA, switching to injections often helps. Finasteride lowers DHT but is controversial for sexual side effects (post-finasteride syndrome). For most men on injectable TRT, DHT in the upper-mid range is correlated with the best libido and erectile function — don't be afraid of it.
/RELATED
FAQ
/01Is high DHT bad on TRT?+
Not necessarily. Many men feel best with DHT in the upper range — better libido, better mood, better recovery. Concerns arise mainly if you have a family history of pattern baldness or BPH, in which case 5-alpha reductase inhibitors or switching from topical to injectable T are options.
/02Should I take finasteride on TRT?+
Only if you have a specific, addressable problem (pattern baldness, BPH) and after weighing the risk of post-finasteride syndrome. Many TRT users avoid finasteride entirely because of its sexual and mental health side-effect profile.
Track DHT in the app.
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