The Evidence Based Case Against Blocking Estrogen in Men

John C. Carrozzella, M.D., MSMS

Director & Founding Physician, CEO, Florida Center for Hormones and Wellness

Since testosterone went underground in the 1970s, shortly after it became a controlled substance following the performance enhancing drug legislation by Congress, many have come to believe that it was important to block its conversion into the female hormone, Estradiol. This concept was further enhanced by observational literature that showed an association with elevated Estradiol and many disease conditions in men. It has since become an accepted dictum that Estradiol should be blocked during the course of Testosterone therapy in men. However, higher quality prospective studies published more recently, show that when Estradiol is blocked (such as in the treatment of prostate and other cancers), severe medical consequences follow and when Estradiol is allowed to rise without blocking, less disease and debility ensue. This discussion will review significant recent literature showing that allowing Estradiol levels to rise with Testosterone treatment is not only safe but medically essential.