How to Give a Testosterone Injection

Testosterone replacement therapy is prescribed by a doctor when your body doesn't produce enough testosterone.

This could be due to injury, disease, or as a natural course of aging.

Testosterone Benefits

Hormone replacement by injection is usually given in your doctor's office every two weeks. However, experts have come to believe there is less fluctuation in hormone levels when testosterone shots are given more frequently.

They are now usually self-administered at home twice weekly. When you begin therapy, your doctor will fully explain how to self-administer your injection so you will feel comfortable doing it at home.

Testosterone Injection Administration

The process is simple. You must draw the testosterone solution into the syringe and make sure to expel the air bubble.

Always use a new sterile needle each time. Choose the injection site over a muscular area in your hip or shoulder, wipe it with alcohol and then jab the needle into your skin.

Testosterone shots utilize small needles but you must be sure to insert it deeply enough so the medication is delivered into your muscle.

The injection is the preferred method of delivery because it bypasses the problem of variable absorption associated with transdermal testosterone. It is effective at maintaining sufficiently high levels of circulating hormone levels and therefore is considered to be more effective at alleviating symptoms.

Testosterone shots do have one major disadvantage for men afraid of needles and pain. A testosterone injection is no more painful that any other type of shot, but for those who are fearful, self-administration may be upsetting.

Testosterone Gel or Patches

These have the disadvantage of requiring a dedicated daily practice and an uncertain absorption rate. Care must also be taken not to have skin-to-skin contact with children or women as they could absorb the testosterone and suffer adverse effects.

Testosterone Pills

These tablets are not to be swallowed. In fact, testosterone in pill form is rarely used because the absorption of the hormone through the stomach is erratic and usually very low.

Testosterone Pellets

Each method of delivery has its advantages and disadvantages but they all are designed to elevate the level of circulating testosterone in your body to within the normal range for your age.

Side Effects of Testosterone

The hormone may also cause; headaches, acne, hair loss, and changes in sex drive. You may experience breast swelling, changes in testicle size, dizziness, loss of appetite, prolonged erections, urination problems, or hoarseness.

Testosterone shots may improve your quality of life if your symptoms are caused by low levels of this important hormone. You should use caution if you have known chronic health problems and discuss the advantages and risks with your doctor.

Your doctor can also help you decide if the testosterone injection is the best method of delivery for you.