Men's Guide to Testosterone Shots

Boys and men suffering from low testosterone levels may face a variety of different health conditions.

For young boys, the most common problem is delayed puberty and are generally shorter than their peers.

In adult males, testosterone may help with impotence, erectile dysfunction, depression, heart problems, low bone density and a number of other conditions.

What are Testosterone Shots?

The injection is shot into a muscle in the buttocks, so it will quickly enter the bloodstream. To keep testosterone levels steady, a health care provider will usually prescribe shots to be had once or twice weekly.

Side Effects of Testosterone

The condition is usually temporary, and will usually disappear once the treatment has ended. Other commonly associated side effects include acne and male pattern baldness.

Increased muscle mass occurs when taking testosterone injections and athletes and body builders often use it for this reason alone. Water weight and sodium retention may cause some swelling but in healthy individuals, this is not a major cause for concern.

Sometimes testosterone may elevate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Very rarely, more serious side effects such as liver tumors and excessive blood clotting may occur.

Men on long term treatment will typically have their red blood cell count monitored since testosterone may potentially elevate them high enough to cause strokes. Increases in erection frequency, headaches, itching, nausea and changes in sex drive should also be looked out for when taking testosterone injections.

Often these problems may be alleviated with an adjustment in testosterone dose.

Testosterone Pills

Some men who dislike needles or are put off by the pain of testosterone shots also prefer taking pills. Testosterone in pill form however quickly passes through the body with little being absorbed.

Therefore, those who choose this method of administration will have to take several pills a day. Pills are also less cost effective than injections.

Testosterone Pellets

The procedure is typically painless and the implant will continuously release testosterone into the bloodstream for several months.

Other Testosterone Preparations

With testosterone, behavior changes such as irritability, aggressiveness and mood swings may occur. Much more often however, men who take testosterone injections feel a "boost."

They have more energy, may easier engage in exercise, are better able to concentrate at work and have increased sexual performance. Though other testosterone therapies should be considered testosterone shots remain the preferred method.