Tribulus terrestris may modestly improve sexual function scores in men with mild-to-moderate erectile difficulties and in women with low desire, largely without raising testosterone. Evidence for athletic or body-composition gains is weak. Short-term use is generally tolerable (mainly gastrointestinal upset); rare organ injury and interactions with some cholesterol medications make extract quality, review of concurrent medications, and monitoring relevant. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| ALT / AST | Near lower half of lab range | Detect hepatotoxicity early |
| Creatinine / eGFR | eGFR ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m² ideal; track personal baseline if 60–89 | Case reports of tubular injury |
| Fasting glucose / HbA1c | Fasting glucose ~70–90 mg/dL functional aim; HbA1c individualized | Additive glycemic effects |
| Blood pressure | ~110–120 / 70–80 mmHg | Additive hypotensive potential |
| CK | Within lab reference; investigate upward trends | Rhabdomyolysis interaction risk if on statin or muscle symptoms |
| Total / free testosterone + SHBG | Age- and lab-specific; free T often more informative | Optional; document that benefits ≠ large testosterone rise |
Cadence: Baseline before a multi-week course; at about 4 weeks, again near 8–12 weeks if continuing, then every 3–6 months only if long-term use is elected