There are many ways to administer testosterone replacement therapy. And today the most commonly prescribed methods are testosterone injections and gels or creams.
Before undergoing TRT it’s important to understand the distinction between these two methods. You should also understand the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision on treatment.
Transdermal Gels and Creams
Gels and creams are one of the most popular methods for treating low testosterone. And many doctors swear by its ability to raise testosterone.
And the reason they’re so popular is because they’re simple to use. They are typically applied to the skin first thing in the morning. Areas of application include; shoulders, upper arms and scrotum. Gels and creams tends to come in concentrations of 1,2,5 and 10%.
Pros
- Easy to use and apply
- Pain-free
- Absorption through skin causes testosterone levels to fluctuate, thereby closely mimicking the body’s own production
Cons
- Absorption through skin may be inefficient due to factors like sweat and food consumption
- May produce oily skin due to elevation of DHT
- Unable to wash or engage in vigorous exercise for several hours after application
Testosterone Injections
Testosterone injections are another form of commonly prescribed treatment for low testosterone. Doctors like it for its ability to provide predictable and stable levels of blood testosterone.
How effective treatment is depends on the type of testosterone preparation used, e.g. Sustanon, and injection frequency. Testosterone injections are administered in one of two ways. Subcutaneously (SubQ) – i.e. through fat or intramuscular (IM).
Pros
- Injections go directly into the bloodstream, minimising loss through absorption
- Provide a stable predictable level of testosterone
- Doesn’t stop you from exercising
Cons
- Requires practice to master correct injection technique and loads syringes with testosterone
- Using needles can be daunting (needle phobia)
- Vials and syringes need to be disposed properly and stored correctly
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, it’s not so much a question of testosterone injections vs gels and creams. The real question is: Which one is right for you? The answer depends on your individual circumstances.
The use of gels and creams is a plug and play option with minimal hassle. However, it does come with caveats. Heavy sweating with gels and creams interfere with their absorption. Similarly, there is a high risk of transferral of the preparation when coming into contact with others.
Testosterone injections are arguably the most reliable form of treatment. They offer predictable levels of blood testosterone and have minimal interference with your lifestyle. But they are not for the faint of heart and many reject them outright due to needle phobia.
Remember, any decision on treatment should always be taken under the supervision of a qualified doctor. If you think you’re suffering from low testosterone, don’t hesitate to contact us to see how we can help you.