Low Testosterone and depression

[alabamaslim]

I have been diagnosed with Major Recurrent Depression that occurred anywhere from 2-7 years apart. My last episode began in the fall of 2006 and, in spite of numerous antidepressants, my symptoms perstied. I finally asked my Family physician to check my testosterone level.  The result was 80...At my age, it should be close to 350. It is possible that low T is responsible for the severity and long duration of this episode. The Rx prescribed is Androgel...but at $250 an Rx I am unable to have it filled...I have no insurance and not enough money to start the treatment...anyone else have their Test level checked as part of a depression profile ? If so, what therapy were you prescribed.
Thanks

[kjs84]

if you go on the androgel web site you can get a discount card for their gel to use at the pharmacist.  there are also other places to get the cream. we go to a place that makes it on site.  and with the cream it is made much stronger to the persons needs and you actually put on ALOT less than the gel.  The place we go to is called Custom Dosing, don't know if you have one in your area.

[mammo]

Yes, low testosterone can cause a depressed mood.  There are other treatments which may be cheaper, so you should call your doctor and ask him about this. If not do as remar suggests.  I don't know your age, but there are many conditions that cause this, I hope they have ruled these out.  Low testosterone needs to be treated, you are losing bone mass, and muscle due to this.  My husband takes the shot 2 x a month, and I give the injections to him.

[remar]

When your hormones are off balance it can cause all sorts of problems, even depression. The only thing I can recommend is contacting the company that makes the Androgel and ask if they can give it to you at a reduced rate since you have no insurance. Your Dr may have to fill out a little bit of paper work for the company. Take care. Remar