Testosterone Injected: How It Works, Benefits, Risks, and What to Expect

Now let’s discuss the use of testosterone injections. You may have been reading about TRT and realized that one of the most popular and effective methods to boost down testosterone levels is by using injections. Perhaps your physician suggested it. Perhaps you’re simply looking into your choices. Regardless, it is important that you know what you are going into.

However, they come with risk, and commitment. But let’s get down to the nitty gritty, so you can make a well informed decision.

What Are Testosterone Injection and How Does It Work?

Testosterone injection is a medicine prescribed to treat low testosterone or absence of testosterone in men. It is also used in males with delayed puberty to initiate puberty and sometimes to treat some forms of breast cancer. The injection provides a synthetic version of the hormone testosterone, which is what your body would otherwise produce naturally.

Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone. It is the major sex hormone in males, responsible for the development and functioning of male sex organs and typical male characteristics. If given by injection, a testosterone dose turns on androgen receptors in different tissues, which results in expression of genes that promote growth and development of male characteristics.

This is because the administration of exogenous testosterone itself inhibits endogenous production, so it’s important to monitor and ensure proper dosing.

How Is Testosterone Injected?

There are various types of testosterone injection and two methods of administration. It can be injected into a muscle, usually the buttock muscle, and is usually given by a doctor or nurse at a health care facility. Other newer versions are available such as Xyosted, which is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) at the belly. This version can be given at home by you or a caregiver that has been trained. There are also some injections of testosterone that last for a couple of weeks and can be administered every 2–4 weeks.

What Are the Benefits of Testosterone Injections? 

There are various symptoms that are caused by low testosterone and testosterone therapy can help to treat them. Beneficial effects upon libido are anticipated and are sometimes evident in about three weeks. Loss of strength and mass in muscles takes longer, around 16 weeks. A number of men also experience a boost in energy, better thinking and memory, improved bone density and improved mood with Testosterone injected.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Testosterone Injections? 

Testosterone injected, as with all medications, have a list of possible side effects. Before treatment, it’s crucial to become familiar with these.

Common side effects include acne, pain/ bruising at the injection site, hot flushes, weight gain and breast enlargement (gynecomastia). More severe side effects include raised red cell count, increasing the likelihood of blood clots and other heart and blood vessel problems. 

Testosterone therapy could also lead to reduced sperm production and affect fertility. It is not safe for pregnant or potentially pregnant women to come into contact with this medicine because it may cause birth defects in a fetus.

How Long Does Testosterone Take to Work? 

Testosterone injected results take some time. Some effects, like increased libido, can be seen after 3 weeks of use. But other changes, like loss of muscle strength, may take as long as 16 weeks to be noticed. The doctor will follow you up with regular blood tests and will adjust your dose as necessary.

How Much Do Testosterone Injections Cost? 

Testosterone replacement therapy cost is an important factor for many. Testosterone injection is one of the most affordable forms of hormone therapy and testosterone replacement. The price of a generic/testosterone cypionate vial without insurance is about $20 to $100. 

The costs of testosterone injected differ depending on the pharmacy, the type and brand of medication and its concentration. Also, you’ll have to have extra expenses such as visits to clinicians and periodic lab testing for monitoring treatment, and these can go up to a total of $300 a year, depending on the fees charged by your clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect during a testosterone injection?

If administered in a clinic, a nurse or doctor will give you the shot. If using a self-injectable device like Xyosted, you will be shown how to prepare and inject the medication. Always follow the instructions provided.

What are the common side effects of testosterone injections?

Common side effects include acne, injection site pain, hot flushes, weight gain, and breast enlargement. More serious risks include blood clots and worsening of sleep apnea.

How long does it take for a testosterone injection to work?

Some effects, like an increased sex drive, can be seen within weeks. Other changes, like an increase in muscle mass, may take several months to become noticeable. 

What is the cost of testosterone injections?

Without insurance, a vial of testosterone cypionate can cost between $20 and $100. Using a discount card like GoodRx can reduce the price to as little as $33.

Can anyone use online testosterone replacement therapy services?

Many telehealth platforms offer testosterone therapy after a blood test and consultation with a licensed clinician. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate, and the treatment must be medically appropriate.

Is it safe to use testosterone without a prescription?

No. Using testosterone without a prescription is illegal and can lead to serious health risks. Always use testosterone only as directed by a doctor.

What is the main use of Testosterone injection?

It is used more commonly to treat low levels of the male hormone, testosterone, in men (hypogonadism), which helps to restore normal levels of the hormone.

Is Testosterone a Steroid?

Testosterone is indeed an anabolic androgenic steroid. It is a naturally occurring hormone, but also can be made synthetically and prescribed. The abuse of steroids, particularly with the use of testosterone, is an illegal practice that is designed to improve performance.

Is it possible to purchase testosterone online?

The purchase of testosterone and order testosterone online without a prescription from a licensed health care provider are illegal. Testosterone is a controlled substance and is not to be used without a prescription.

How is testosterone injected?

Testosterone is injected deep into a muscle. Some newer models are for subcutaneous injection (under the skin) that you can do yourself after training in the home.