This refers to the precise clinical process of adjusting the dosage or frequency of exogenous hormone administration to achieve a desired concentration of the unbound, physiologically active hormone fraction in the circulation. We are concerned not with total hormone levels, but with the fraction capable of interacting with target cell receptors. Accurate titration is essential for optimizing therapeutic effect while minimizing adverse signaling.
Origin
The term merges ‘Bioavailable,’ indicating the fraction of a substance accessible for physiological effect, with ‘Titration,’ stemming from the Latin titulare, meaning to mark the title or measure. It is rooted in clinical endocrinology and pharmacology.
Mechanism
The process involves monitoring the levels of free or weakly bound hormones, such as free testosterone or free estradiol, which are not sequestered by sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG). Adjustments are made based on symptomology and laboratory metrics to maintain these free levels within a defined, optimal physiological range that promotes target tissue function without inducing supra-physiological stimulation.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.