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Liver Panel (AST/ALT)

importantSafety Marker

Optimal Range

<40

U/L

When to Test

Quarterly (ongoing monitoring)

Category

Safety Marker

What This Test Measures

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase) are enzymes that indicate liver cell damage when elevated. While injectable testosterone is not particularly hepatotoxic (unlike oral 17-alpha-alkylated steroids), liver function should still be monitored on TRT. Oral ancillary medications like anastrozole and enclomiphene are processed by the liver.

Additionally, metabolic changes from TRT (improved body composition, reduced fatty liver) can actually improve liver enzymes in men with baseline non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Why This Matters for TRT

Baseline and periodic monitoring recommended. Injectable testosterone is not significantly hepatotoxic, but oral ancillary medications warrant monitoring. Note that vigorous exercise can transiently elevate AST.

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