Testosterone enanthate is an injectable form of the primary male sex hormone, testosterone. It is one of the most commonly prescribed forms of testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadal men and transgender men looking to masculinize.
Some key points about testosterone enanthate:
- It is a long-acting ester of testosterone designed to provide sustained release of testosterone into the bloodstream over 1-2 weeks per injection
- The enanthate ester makes the testosterone soluble in oil, allowing for intramuscular injections
- It helps restore normal testosterone levels in men with clinically low testosterone (hypogonadism)
- Benefits include increased energy, muscle mass, bone density, libido, mood, cognition
- Requires a prescription and regular bloodwork to monitor hormone levels and potential side effects
Who is testosterone enanthate prescribed for?
Testosterone enanthate is FDA-approved as
hormone replacement therapy for adult men with clinically low testosterone levels along with symptoms like low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass.
It is also sometimes prescribed off-label for transgender men wishing to
masculinize during gender transition, often combined with other medications.
At
Renewal Hormone Center, our physicians specialize in prescribing bioidentical hormone replacement including testosterone therapy for men and women. We provide fully individualized treatment plans to help patients achieve their wellness goals.
How is testosterone enanthate administered?
Testosterone enanthate is given as a
deep intramuscular injection, usually every 1-2 weeks. Injection sites include the gluteal muscles, thighs, or deltoids. The dosage and frequency are tailored to the patient’s lab results, symptoms, and goals.
Frequent bloodwork is needed to monitor hormone levels and potential side effects on the liver, cholesterol, hematocrit, and prostate. Your doctor may adjust the dosage over time to maintain optimal testosterone levels.
What are the side effects of testosterone enanthate?
Possible side effects may include:
- Acne and oily skin
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)
- Increased hematocrit (thick blood)
- Negative impacts on heart health and cholesterol
- Liver toxicity
Careful medical oversight is essential when using testosterone therapy. Report any concerning symptoms to your doctor promptly. Lifestyle adjustments like diet, exercise, and stress management can also optimize well-being on TRT.
I hope this overview on testosterone enanthate was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.