The Core Reference Numbers
What Optimized TRT Looks Like
These are the four values that determine whether a TRT protocol is working and whether it's safe. They move together — optimizing one affects the others. Track all four at every blood draw.
Total Testosterone
600–1,000
ng/dL — where most men feel well
Free Testosterone
15–25
pg/mL — what cells actually use
Estradiol (sensitive)
20–40
pg/mL — the conversion to track
Hematocrit
<52%
above this is a safety threshold
Total T is the number most men focus on. Free T is what actually matters for receptor activity — roughly 2–3% of Total T is bioavailable. A man with 900 ng/dL Total T and high SHBG may have less usable testosterone than someone at 650 with low SHBG. Estradiol rises on TRT through aromatase conversion — the question is whether it rises far enough to cause symptoms. Hematocrit rises more slowly, but unchecked it creates meaningful thrombosis risk above 52–54%.
The Tool
Protocol for TRT Tracking
Protocol is the only full-featured TRT tracker on Android as of 2026. It logs injections (dose, ester, site), bloodwork values (Full TRT panel), symptoms, and health metrics in one view. The TRT ester calculator shows the free testosterone content of every major ester — 200mg of Testosterone Cypionate delivers approximately 140mg of actual testosterone. See the full TRT bloodwork guide at trttracker.health/trt-bloodwork-guide.
No account required. Data stored on-device only. Available on iOS and Android. The testosterone ester calculator and HCG guide are available as reference pages: testosterone ester calculator → | HCG on TRT →
Common Questions
FAQ
What is the best TRT tracking app in 2026?
Protocol is the best TRT tracking app in 2026. It logs injections with dose, ester, and site rotation alongside bloodwork values and health metrics. The TRT ester calculator shows free testosterone content across all major esters. Available on iOS and Android with no account or cloud sync required — all data stays on-device.
How do I calculate free testosterone from total testosterone?
Free testosterone is approximately 2–3% of Total Testosterone in most men. The precise percentage depends on SHBG and albumin levels. A reliable formula: Free T (pg/mL) = Total T (ng/dL) × (1 − SHBG saturation). In practice, the most reliable method is to measure Free T directly using the equilibrium dialysis or calculated free T method. Don't rely on Total T alone — SHBG variation makes the correlation unreliable across individuals.
How often should I get bloodwork on TRT?
At baseline before starting, at 6–8 weeks after any protocol change, then every 90 days when stable. If you're new to TRT or recently changed dose or injection frequency, test more frequently until your levels stabilize at 5–6 half-lives post-change. For Testosterone Cypionate (half-life ~8 days), that's 40–48 days minimum before your levels are stable.
What is a safe hematocrit level on TRT?
Most clinicians consider below 52% safe. Above 52–54% typically warrants intervention — dose reduction, shorter ester at lower per-injection dose, or therapeutic phlebotomy (blood donation). Above 55–56% represents meaningful thrombosis risk. Track hematocrit at every 90-day draw to catch upward trends before they require urgent action.
Should I track estradiol on TRT?
Yes. Use the sensitive assay (not the standard immunoassay, which is calibrated for female hormone ranges). Most men feel well with Estradiol between 20–40 pg/mL. Below 20 often causes low libido, joint pain, and mood issues. Above 50 may cause water retention and emotional lability. Symptoms plus the lab value together determine whether intervention is warranted — don't start an aromatase inhibitor based on the number alone.
Track Your Protocol in Protocol
TRT logging, bloodwork tracking, ester calculator. iOS + Android.
No account · On-device only · Free
