Testosterone is a hormone often prescribed to treat low testosterone levels or hypogonadism in men. It can be administered through various forms like gels, patches, pellets, or injections.
Injecting testosterone once a week, also known as testosterone cypionate or enanthate, is a common protocol for hormone replacement therapy. Some key points about weekly testosterone injections:
- Dosage is typically between 100-200 mg per injection. This delivers a steady amount of testosterone to reach normal physiologic levels. The dose can be adjusted based on lab work and symptom improvement.
- Injections are done intramuscularly into large muscles like the buttocks, thighs or deltoids. Proper injection technique is vital to minimize pain and complications. Most men learn to self-inject after proper training.
- Once weekly dosing provides stable blood hormone levels. More frequent injections or other forms like gels can cause peaks and troughs.
- It takes 4-6 weeks to see symptom improvement. Testosterone levels should be monitored with bloodwork to ensure proper dosing.
- Potential side effects include polycythemia, sleep apnea worsening, infertility or testicular atrophy. These risks can often be mitigated by proper dosing and monitoring.
Benefits of weekly testosterone injections:
- Convenient weekly administration improves compliance
- Avoid the highs and lows seen with gels or more frequent shots
- Delivers hormone efficiently into the blood stream
- Lowers risk of transference to partners/children compared to gels
- Improves energy, sexual function, muscle mass and other hypogonadism symptoms
Contraindications for testosterone replacement:
- Hormone sensitive cancers like prostate or breast cancer
- Severe benign prostate hyperplasia untreated
- Uncontrolled congestive heart failure
- Desire to maintain fertility - testosterone limits sperm production
If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone like fatigue, low libido or erectile dysfunction, make an appointment with your healthcare provider to get evaluated. They can check lab work and review treatment options including hormone injections to help you feel healthy, energetic and living your best life.
Renewal Hormone Center specializes in diagnosing and treating hormone imbalances including low testosterone and hypogonadism. Our board certified specialists create customized treatment plans utilizing
injections, gels, supplements and lifestyle changes to help patients regain their vitality. We closely monitor your bloodwork and progress to ensure treatments are working safely and effectively. Book an appointment online today to start optimizing your hormone health.