What forms of TRT are available? Which one works better?

If I am going to use testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), what are the different options? Which one works better and is easier to use? There are several different forms available, the following are common forms of TRT and their characteristics.

Injectable testosterone of TRT forms

Injectable testosterone is usually an oily solution and works by injection through the muscles, such as the buttocks or thigh muscles. Synthetic testosterone, or testosterone derivatives, begins to work by being inject into the body within a few days, and blood testosterone levels peak within a few weeks. The effect is long-lasting and the frequency of injection is usually once every 1 to 2 weeks.

Boosting testosterone levels in this way is faster and more effective, and can immediately improve the user’s testosterone levels. But because testosterone injections need to follow regular injections, they can be inconvenient, especially for people who are not used to needles. At the same time, professionals or their own master injection skills. Improper injection techniques may also cause pain or infection at the injection site.

Gel testosterone

Testosterone gels are topical testosterone. Apply testosterone gel to the skin (such as the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen), and the testosterone will absorbe through the skin into the blood stream, usually within a few hours to a few days, thereby steadily raising serum testosterone levels.

Testosterone gel is easy to apply and only needs to be applied to the skin once a day, allowing the user to self-manage. And the use of testosterone gel does not require injections, is more friendly to people who are afraid of needles, while reducing the risk of infection and pain.

However, one of the big drawbacks of testosterone gels is testosterone leakage. If you live with your family, this topical testosterone may transfer through exposure, especially children and women, who are more susceptible to the effects of testosterone.

Patch testosterone

Testosterone patches, by sticking to the skin (such as the back, abdomen, or thighs), gradually release testosterone, which passes through the skin and into the bloodstream. Testosterone patches usually take effect within a few miles to a day and maintain relatively stable serum testosterone levels.

It’s easy to use, do not require injections, and are painless. But because it is stuck to the skin, it may cause local skin irritation and cause discomfort. If not used properly, there is a risk of the patch falling off.

Oral testosterone of TRT forms

Oral testosterone is a synthetic testosterone drug in capsules or tablets. Since oral testosterone utilization is low, you may need a higher dose. Moreover, oral testosterone mostly metabolize in the liver or kidneys, and some forms of synthetic testosterone may have an effect on liver health, so the use of oral testosterone requires monitoring liver health and taking liver protectants where appropriate.

Oral testosterone is also more convenient than injected testosterone and is suitable for people who do not want to inject it and for users who do not want to expose their family members to testosterone. However, compared to injected testosterone, the oral form of testosterone is usually slower to act and is not suitable for rapidly increasing serum testosterone levels. It may also cause gastrointestinal discomfort and may be liver toxic.

Implanted testosterone

By placing small testosterone implants, placed in subcutaneous tissue (such as the upper arm or buttocks), they can last from several months to a year, providing long-term stable testosterone levels. This form of TRT reduces the hassle of daily and weekly use and provides long-term stable testosterone release. But placing testosterone implants requires specialized medical personnel and amounts to a minor surgery that can cause local infections or other complications.

About TRT forms, Injection type and gel type are the most common choices, injection type is effective, but inconvenient to use; The gel type is easy for daily use, but should take care to avoid metastasis.

The patch type and implant type are suitable for patients who need long-term stable testosterone levels, convenient and avoid the discomfort of injections.

The oral version, while convenient, has potential liver risks.

When choosing a form of TRT, patients should discuss their situation, lifestyle, and preferences with their doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment.