Interestingly, CBD (cannabidiol), another major compound in cannabis, may have different effects on testosterone than THC. Some men feel fine with testosterone levels on the lower end of normal, while others experience symptoms even with levels in the middle range. Free testosterone, which represents the bioavailable hormone not bound to proteins, is often a better indicator of hormonal function. Understanding your baseline levels and tracking changes over time can help you make informed decisions about cannabis use and overall health management. The impact of marijuana on testosterone appears to be heavily influenced by usage patterns. The inconsistency in research findings may be attributed to several factors including differences in study design, participant selection, marijuana potency, usage patterns, and the timing of testosterone measurements. In contrast to THC, CBD does not have psychoactive effects and has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties. The primary psychoactive compound in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but it also contains cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound with potential therapeutic properties. What’s your opinion on the topic of marijuana and testosterone? Similar results were found in another long-term study that found cannabis to be a risk factor for poor sperm morphology. The average testosterone level for the heavy users (smoked 119 joints over 21 days) was 1115 ng/dL. The average testosterone level for casual users (smoked 54 joints over 21 days) was 988 ng/dL. 1) 27 men (aged 21 to 26) were brought into a lab and assessed for their testosterone level before, during, and after 21-days of marijuana use. Overall, both sexes' testosterone production is a complex process influenced by many factors. Upon reaching the gonads, LH stimulates the production and release of testosterone. There is an internal process behind how testosterone is made in the body, beginning in the brain. When it comes to combining cannabis with Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), it's important to consider the possible long-term effects. Healthcare providers emphasize the importance of open communication between patients and their medical team. Some may recommend avoiding cannabis altogether to prevent any potential negative interactions. This could potentially undermine the mental health benefits that TRT is meant to provide. For example, cannabis is known to affect the cardiovascular system, sometimes causing increased heart rate and blood pressure. Estrogen is a hormone that plays a role in both men and women, and its balance is important for overall health. Oregon Health & Science University is dedicated to improving the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation and leadership in health care, education and research. This study was reviewed and approved by the OHSU Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. In collaboration with Carol Hanna, Ph.D., director of the Assisted Reproductive Technology Core at Oregon National Primate Research Center at OHSU, and researchers from University of Georgia and Duke University, Lo and Hedges will continue to expand their understanding of the relationship between THC and reproductive health in both male and female nonhuman primates. "Unfortunately, these effects appeared to worsen as the THC dose was increased, suggesting a possible dose-dependent effect." The nonhuman primates, all of reproductive age with a history of proven paternity and no prior exposure to cannabis, received a THC edible once daily over the course of seven months. KAM designed the study, assisted in data interpretation, assisted in drafting the manuscript, and oversaw the study.