Testosterone shots are one type of hormone therapy. Their primary use is to treat sexual dysfunction in men and postmenopausal symptoms in women with low testosterone levels. Transgender men and nonbinary people may benefit from testosterone injections as part of masculinizing therapy.
Many individuals believe that testosterone shots are safe, yet they can have harmful consequences. The side effects may differ depending on the reason for the injections.
Although testosterone injections can help with low testosterone caused by medical conditions, the FDA does not recommend using testosterone to treat normal aging-related testosterone declines since it may increase the risk of certain health problems.
Continue reading to discover more about testosterone shots, such as their applications, safety, and potential side effects.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that is found in both humans and animals. In men, the testicles are the principal generator of testosterone. Women’s ovaries generate testosterone as well, albeit in much lesser amounts.
The production of testosterone rises rapidly during adolescence and then begins to fall after the age of 30.
Testosterone is most usually associated with sexual desire and is required for sperm production. It also affects bone and muscle mass, male fat storage, and even red blood cell formation.
A man’s testosterone levels may also influence his mood.
A simple blood test can be used to detect testosterone levels. In the bloodstream, testosterone levels can range from normal to healthy.
Normal male testosterone levels range between 280 and 1,100 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) for adult males and between 15 and 70 ng/dL for adult females, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center.
Because lab ranges differ, it’s vital to review your results with your doctor.
A doctor may undertake a workup to determine the source of low testosterone if an adult male’s testosterone levels are less than 300 ng/dL, according to the American Urological Association.
Low testosterone levels could be an indication of pituitary gland dysfunction. The pituitary gland sends a signaling hormone to the testicles, causing them to produce more testosterone.
In an adult man, a low T test result could suggest that the pituitary gland is not working properly. A young teenager with low testosterone levels, on the other hand, may be experiencing delayed puberty.
Men with somewhat elevated testosterone levels may have few obvious signs. Boys with increased testosterone levels may experience early puberty. Women who have high testosterone levels may exhibit masculine traits.
An adrenal gland illness or testicular cancer could cause abnormally high testosterone levels.
High testosterone levels might also occur in less serious settings. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which can affect both males and females, is one unusual yet common cause of excessive testosterone production.
If your testosterone levels are unusually high, your doctor may order additional tests to discover the source.
What are testosterone shots?
Testosterone shots are injections of testosterone. This hormone is present in both males and females, but males have higher levels normally.
Testosterone therapy is becoming more common in the United States. Before considering long-term testosterone therapy, professionals should make sure the patient understands the risks and benefits.
The sections that follow go through the many uses for testosterone shots.
Do Testosterone Shots work?
The simple answer is yes. Testosterone shots do work. The mere fact that it has been utilized greatly these past decades only prove that these steroids actually work, and they work great, given the fact that they are used responsibly.
Treating low testosterone levels in males
Doctors may offer testosterone shots to treat males with low testosterone levels. Hypogonadism is a condition in which the testicles produce insufficient testosterone.
Low testosterone levels may have negative repercussions. Males who have low testosterone have fewer sperm, less bone or muscle mass, more body fat, and erectile problems. Normal total testosterone levels in the bloodstream range from 280 to 1,100 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl) in healthy adult males.
When used to treat hypogonadism, testosterone therapy has the following advantages:
- enhanced sexual function
- improved strength and lean muscular mass
- better mood
- improved cognitive function
- osteoporosis could be reduced
It’s critical to understand that this treatment only tackles the symptoms of low testosterone, not the underlying reason.
Anyone who suspects they have low testosterone should see a doctor. However, the symptoms are rather broad and could be caused by various illnesses or lifestyle factors.
Treatment is not always necessary or safe for all males with low testosterone. The FDA has only approved testosterone replacement therapy for males who have low testosterone due to illnesses of the testicles, brain, or pituitary gland, not for normal age-related declines.
Testosterone therapy in females
Females are more hostile to testosterone replacement therapy than males.
In healthy adult females, total testosterone levels range between 15 and 70 ng/dl. Females with low testosterone may struggle with fertility, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, and a lack of sex drive. Despite this, doctors rarely recommend testosterone shots to women who have low testosterone because they can be masculinizing.
Doctors may, however, prescribe testosterone to help ladies with hypoactive sexual drive following menopause. Other signs and symptoms associated with menopause, such as anxiety, mood changes, weight gain, and decreased bone density, have not been supported by study.
Currently, no drugs for female testosterone therapy have been approved by the FDA. Furthermore, in the United States, there are no easily accessible formulations that deliver the required therapeutic amount of 300 micrograms per day for females. As a result, a female will frequently need the help of a compounding pharmacy to fill her prescription.
Masculinizing hormone therapy
Using testosterone therapy, men can develop a more manly appearance. Transgender men, nonbinary individuals, and others may choose to use testosterone shots as part of their gender transition. The use of testosterone shots is referred to as masculinizing hormone therapy.
Testosterone therapy promotes masculine sexual characteristics while lowering feminine ones, and it can result in any of the following changes:
- Changes in emotional and social functioning
- promoting the growth of facial hair
- hair growth on the body
- a breakout of acne
- a more potent voice
- receding hairline in men with male pattern baldness
- alterations in the distribution of body fat
- Muscle mass grows.
- There are no menstrual periods.
These testosterone therapy regimens are similar to those employed in the treatment of male hypogonadism. To maintain regular levels of this hormone, using testosterone shots once a week may be the most effective technique.
Results in Bicep Curl if you use Testosterone shots
If you’re looking to optimize your Bicep Curl workouts and achieve superior results, incorporating Testosterone shots may be a game-changer. Testosterone shots are known to have a positive impact on muscle development and strength gains, making them a valuable addition to your fitness routine. By boosting your testosterone levels, these shots can potentially enhance your muscle-building capabilities and improve your overall performance during Bicep Curl exercises. However, it’s crucial to note that responsible and informed usage is paramount. Prioritize consulting with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide proper guidance and ensure the appropriate dosage, ensuring your safety while maximizing the benefits of Testosterone shots in your pursuit of achieving remarkable results in Bicep Curl workouts.
Types of testosterone injection
Testosterone shots are available in a variety of formats. Here are a few examples:
- testosterone cypionate (Depo-Testosterone)
- testosterone enanthate (Xyosted and also available in its generic form)
- testosterone undecanoate (Aveed, which is a long acting formulation)
How to use them
The hormone testosterone enters the body straight through the muscle when a guy receives an injection. People can choose between two methods:
- Self-administration of injections at home involves injecting the hormone into the thigh with a home injection kit.
- At a doctor’s appointment, have them injected into the buttocks muscle.
People who receive testosterone shots are usually monitored by their doctor every few months. Treatments may last a lifetime or be transitory, depending on the individual’s circumstances.
Are they safe?
When administered as directed by a doctor, testosterone shots may be safe for many people. However, studies have linked testosterone therapy to a multitude of negative side effects and potential consequences.
Some of the potential negative effects of testosterone therapy include:
- a higher risk of cardiovascular disease
- aggravated symptoms of the lower urinary tract
- Polycythemia is an unusual type of blood cancer.
- an increased risk of venous thrombosis
Some people may develop an allergy to testosterone injections. A significant allergic reaction or respiratory issues, for example, may arise following an injection of testosterone undecanoate. Breathing problems, confusion, and skin rashes are all possible symptoms.
Other testosterone derivatives, such as testosterone enanthate, may raise blood pressure, raising the risk of a stroke or heart attack.
People who have had strokes, heart attacks, heart disease, or high blood pressure should consult their doctor before starting testosterone shots since they may be at a higher risk of complications.
If you have any of the following symptoms after obtaining a testosterone injection, you should seek medical assistance immediately:
- shortness of breath
- slow or difficult speech
- chest pain
- weakness or numbness in an arm or leg
- pain in the arms, neck, back, or jaw
- dizziness
- faintness
When a doctor gives teenage male testosterone shots to treat a growth and puberty delay, the goal is to generate an accelerated growth spurt during puberty. The adolescent’s final adult height should be unaffected by this therapy.
Benefits of Testosterone Shots
There are a lot of benefits that can be associated with the proper administration of Testosterone shots. The first most obvious benefit is the increase in Testosterone levels, which is sort of the point of injecting Testosterone in the first place. The second most obvious benefit is the increase in muscle mass. There are benefits that go beyond just the physical aspects. One of the most obvious is a decrease in body fat, but there are other benefits as well. Some of them have to do with libido and sexual performance, others with an increase in lean muscle mass, and some of them even have to do with mood.
There are also improvements in the psychological aspects of people who inject Testosterone shots such as an increase in feelings of well-being or senses of well-being. It has also been observed that people who use Testosterone end up gaining amazing increases in levels of energy, recovery, and in their immune system. Furthermore, bodybuilders who utilize Testosterone often experience incredible effects alongside increased muscle mass such as an increase in their muscle strength and power.
When it comes to sexual health, there are also a lot of positive effects that can be associated with the use of Testosterone shots such as an increase in libido, lesser risks of erectile dysfunction, and the ability to have multiple and prolonged erections.
Benefits of Using Proviron with Testosterone
Combining Proviron with Testosterone can potentially offer several benefits. Proviron has anti-estrogenic properties, which means it can help control estrogen-related side effects that may arise from Testosterone usage. By reducing water retention, bloating, and the risk of gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) caused by excess estrogen, Proviron can contribute to a more balanced hormonal environment. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are prone to estrogenic side effects or who want to maintain a leaner and more defined physique during Testosterone therapy.
Another advantage of using Proviron alongside Testosterone is the potential increase in free testosterone levels. Proviron has the ability to bind to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which can lead to a higher amount of free testosterone circulating in the body. Since free testosterone is the bioavailable form that exerts anabolic effects, this can potentially enhance the benefits of Testosterone therapy. Increased free testosterone levels may contribute to improvements in muscle mass, strength, athletic performance, and libido, making the combination of Proviron and Testosterone appealing for some individuals seeking these specific outcomes.
Testosterone Shots Side effects
People can receive different side effects from Testosterone shots, depending on how they use them. The most common side effects include the following:
- discomfort or breast enlargement
- acne
- a more powerful voice
- tiredness
- hoarseness
- back ache
- bruising, redness, discomfort, bleeding, or hardness at the injection site
- difficulty sleeping or staying awake
- gaining weight
- joint discomfort
- fluctuations in mood
- headaches
If a person has any of the following more serious side effects, they should seek medical attention:
- vomiting or nausea
- lower leg discomfort, redness, or warmth
- Hands, ankles, foot, or lower legs swelling
- breathing difficulties
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Extremely long-lasting erections
- Urinary changes, such as peeing difficulties, increased frequency, decreased flow, urinary urgency, or blood in the urine
- severe abdominal pain in the upper right quadrant
- Changes in mood, such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation
Testosterone Shots for Men
There are numerous Testosterone shots available for males. These testosterone shots can also provide many benefits for men in other domains of specialization such as bodybuilding and powerlifting, as well as treating a variety of health issues that men may have.
Here are some of the top Testosterone boosters for men:
Depo-Testosterone (testosterone cypionate)
Depo-Testosterone is one of the best Testosterone injections for guys who are bodybuilding, powerlifting, or who have low testosterone levels. This steroid injection has the power to enhance not just a person’s testosterone levels, but also their red blood cells. This steroid is primarily used to males who have elevated cholesterol levels or who have had a heart attack, stroke, or other major cardiovascular issue.
Bodybuilders that use Depo-Testosterone typically experience incredible benefits such as increased muscle mass, strength, and endurance. Blood serum testing are the most effective approach to detect the effects of Depo-Testosterone. This Testosterone injection will raise red blood cell levels in a person’s bloodstream, which are linked to combating infections, cancer, and other major disorders, as well as improving athletic performance.
Delatestryl (testosterone enanthate)
Delatestryl is a type of steroid that is used to treat breast cancer. It is also used to treat infertility in women. Pregnant women, children, and those with prostate cancer should not take this medication. This is a long-acting derivative of the corticosteroid dexamethasone. Delatestryl acts by reducing the formation of molecules in the body that produce inflammation and pain, such as histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and thromboxane. Delatestryl has a number of side effects, including muscle weakness, elevated blood pressure, and headache.
The medicine can be injected into a muscle or delivered as a buttock injection. It can also be administered as a gradual injection into a vein. The dosage will be determined by the ailment being treated, its severity, and whether it was caused by surgery or radiation therapy. Delatestryl can also halt bleeding in a short period of time.
Furthermore, Delatestryl can be extremely beneficial for males having vasectomy symptoms in order to halt bleeding. Vasopressin is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus that raises blood pressure and causes water to be released from the body’s tissues, hence increasing blood flow. Diabetes, stroke, and heart failure all cause a drop in vasopressin levels. This can result in issues such as shock or tissue death. To control bleeding, Delatestryl or other hemostatic drugs can be administered to constrict the blood vessels.
Aveed (testosterone undecanoate)
This form of Testosterone Undecanoate is quite beneficial for a variety of reasons. Aveed is primarily used as a treatment for many various types of cancer, as well as autoimmune illnesses. People who want to lose weight might also consider taking Testosterone shots such as Aveed, which is a major benefit. Aveed is primarily utilized in bodybuilding as a prohormone, or precursor to the hormone testosterone.
This steroid injection is also popular among those who want to increase the rate at which they build muscle growth. Some people may never want to take testosterone, but Aveed is an excellent option for those who do. The typical Aveed Dosage varies from 300mg to 600mg per week, which is usually sufficient for any performance-enhancing athlete.
Testopel (testosterone pellet)
Testopel is a testosterone pellet that is placed beneath the scrotum skin and gradually releases testosterone over time. This ensures a consistent supply of the male hormone, keeping levels within a normal range. Low testosterone levels, poor quality sleep (insomnia), and sexual dysfunction can all be helped with Testopel.
A urologist performs the Testopel implantation technique in an outpatient setting. The pellets are injected into the scrotal sac using a needle and gently released to give continuous testosterone release.
Testopel can be used to treat men suffering from hypogonadism and delayed puberty. It is also appropriate for males who have had their testicles removed (e.g., because of cancer). This drug is also given to women who want to avoid developing breast cancer. Furthermore, men who use this medication may develop hair loss and/or skin irritation.
Ditate-DS (testosterone enanthate)
Diatate-DS is an injectable anabolic steroid that is a testosterone enanthate. It is used to treat male hypogonadism and breast cancer in women who have not responded to or are unable to tolerate other forms of therapy.
This medication is classified as an androgen (male sex hormones). Diatate-DS works by replacing or augmenting the body’s natural testosterone, which is insufficient.
Depo-Testadiol (estradiol cypionate; testosterone cypionate)
Depo-Testadiol (estradiol cypionate; testosterone cypionate) is a female hormone used to treat a variety of diseases. This drug contains both estrogen and testosterone. It is utilized in some situations in women who have had their ovaries removed. Depo-Testadiol can also be used to treat moderate to severe menopausal symptoms.
Depo-Testadiol is a hormone that is used to treat some female disorders. It can be administered via injection, implant, or skin patch. The medication prevents ovulation and may aid in the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
The medication may also be used to help prevent some types of cancer, including as breast cancer and uterine cancer. It may also be administered following surgery to lower the chance of developing endometrial or ovarian cancer.
The medication is available in a variety of doses and forms, including pills, injections, skin patches, implants, and vaginal rings.
Testosterone Shots for Women
While almost all of the Testosterone injections available can be used for men, not all of them can be beneficial for women. Some of the best Testosterone shots for women include Testosterone Enanthate injectable, Testosterone Cypionate, and Testosterone Propionate injections. These steroids can be beneficial for women since these Testosterone injections are associated with less risk of masculinization. Once taken, the Testosterone injections can help provide some benefits that women can definitely enjoy.
Where to give Testosterone Shots
Testosterone shots or injections can be given in a variety of ways. The body part into which the steroid must be injected depends on a number of factors. First, the site of the injections will differ depending on the type of hormone used. Second, the amount of testosterone injected must be considered because it might determine how intense and unpleasant the injection is. Third, the health of the individual receiving the injection should be considered, since this will determine the type of needle to be used.
The thigh is the most typical injection location for testosterone. The thigh is an excellent location for injections due to its abundance of capillary beds and collagen-rich muscle tissue. Injection sites differ depending on whether a person is male or female, however injections are commonly placed into the upper arm, buttock, or belly for men and the inner thigh for women.
How long do Testosterone Shots last
The amount of time Testosterone booster shots stay in the system can also vary depending on what steroid is used, and how much of it was administered to the body. For example, if Testosterone Cypionate was injected, it is expected to stay in the system for about 30 days. If Testosterone Enanthate was injected, the level of the drug can be expected to be detectable above normal levels for 12-18 months.
How long does it take for Testosterone shots to work?
For those who are asking “How long do Testosterone shots take to work?”, the answer to this question will also vary depending on what steroid is injected and how much was administered to the body. Testosterone shots work differently since they are different steroids. For example, if Testosterone Cypionate is used, the effects may take approximately 3 weeks to be visible. However, if Testosterone Enanthate is used, the effects may take up to eight weeks to be visible.
How much do Testosterone Shots Cost
For those wondering, “How much do testosterone shots cost?” “We have a response for you as well.” However, it is not as simple as you believe.
The cost of Testosterone shots might vary depending on a few things, just like the body area where the doses should be administered. The first consideration is where the steroid will be obtained. Because each country has its own currency, the cost of Testosterone shots will undoubtedly differ from one country to the next.
The second aspect to consider is the country’s customs. Customs in some nations may refuse to accept the import of medical items, while others may charge a fine if the item is taken into the country. Another consideration is the sort of steroids to be purchased. Each steroid has a distinct price.
Another consideration is the frequency with which the steroid is used. The cost of each shot will vary based on the frequency with which it is administered. The amount purchased is the final factor that might influence the price of Testosterone injections. There will be a cheaper fee with bigger amounts due to purchasing bulk packs and having to pay for it all at once rather than paying for each individual unit as you go. Testosterone shots typically cost between $30 and $100 each shot, but this can vary depending on the reasons indicated above.
Summary and Conclusion
Doctors may administer testosterone shots to males to treat low testosterone caused by certain medical problems. It does not treat the underlying illness, but it may alleviate symptoms. These shots can also be used to treat menopausal sexual dysfunction or as part of masculinizing hormone treatment.
People should be made aware of the long-term and short-term dangers of using testosterone. Before prescribing testosterone replacement therapy, doctors should perform a thorough evaluation and discuss the benefits and risks with the patient.
It is vital to always follow a doctor’s instructions to avoid dangers.