Testosterone Injections vs Gels and Creams: What You Need To Know

Home > Medication > Testosterone Injections vs Gels and Creams: What You Need To Know

Testosterone replacement therapy is a great option for men and women who are unable to produce enough natural testosterone. TRT replenishes your body with bioidentical testosterone, helping to eliminate unwanted symptoms like reduced sexual desire, weight gain, and fatigue. Testosterone therapy can be administered in several different ways but it’s most commonly administered through injections, gels and creams.

Before undergoing TRT it can be helpful to understand the difference between testosterone gel, injection and cream administration. That’s why we’ve put together this article explaining the pros and cons of each method to help you make an informed decision when it comes to getting TRT.

Take Hormone Quiz

Testosterone Injections

Testosterone injections are a widely used and effective treatment for individuals experiencing low testosterone. Doctors particularly favour this method due to its ability to deliver predictable and stable levels of testosterone, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with testosterone deficiency, such as fatigue, low libido, and mood swings. The success of testosterone injection therapy largely depends on the type of testosterone preparation prescribed, such as Sustanon or other formulations, as well as the frequency of administration.

These injections can be given in one of two ways: subcutaneously (SubQ), which involves injecting the hormone into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, or intramuscularly (IM), where the injection is administered directly into the muscle. Each method has its own advantages, with SubQ injections generally being less painful and easier to administer at home, while IM injections may provide quicker absorption of the hormone. The choice between these methods is often guided by patient preference, comfort, and specific medical recommendations. Overall, testosterone injections are a reliable and flexible treatment option that can be tailored to meet individual needs, helping patients achieve and maintain normal testosterone levels.

Pros of Testosterone Injections

• Stable and Predictable Hormone Levels: Testosterone injections provide a steady and predictable level of testosterone in the bloodstream, which can effectively alleviate symptoms of low testosterone.
• Effective Symptom Relief: Many experience significant improvements in energy levels, mood, libido, and muscle mass with regular testosterone injections.
• Flexible Dosing Options: Injections can be administered at varying intervals, such as weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on the type of testosterone used and individual needs.
• Higher Bioavailability: Compared to other forms of testosterone therapy (like gels or patches), injections generally result in a higher level of testosterone availability in the body.
• Longer-Lasting Effects: Some forms of testosterone injections can provide longer-lasting effects, reducing the need for daily administration.
• Convenience: Once the appropriate technique is learned, injections can be self-administered at home, offering convenience and privacy.

Cons of Testosterone Injections

Needle Phobia: Some individuals may find the process of injecting testosterone uncomfortable or may have a fear of needles, making this method less appealing.

Potential for Hormone Fluctuations: Depending on the injection schedule, some users may experience peaks and troughs in T-levels, leading to mood swings or fluctuations in symptom control.

Injection Site Reactions: Repeated injections can sometimes cause irritation, pain, or swelling at the injection site, especially if not done properly.

Regular Monitoring Required: Regular blood tests and medical monitoring are necessary to ensure hormone levels remain within a safe range, which can be time-consuming and may involve frequent visits to a healthcare provider.

Potential Side Effects: Like any testosterone therapy, injections carry risks such as an increased likelihood of blood clots, changes in red blood cell count, or worsening sleep apnea.

Complicated disposal: Having to store and dispose of vials and syringes correctly.

Less Control Over Dosing: Unlike gels or patches, which can be adjusted daily, injections offer less flexibility in dose adjustments, which may require more careful planning and consultation with a healthcare provider.

Testosterone Gels & Creams

While testosterone injections remain the most common method of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), they aren’t the only option available. For those who prefer a less invasive and needle-free approach, testosterone gel and creams offer an effective alternative. Transdermal gels and creams are typically applied to the skin first thing in the morning. Areas of application include; shoulders, upper arms and scrotum. Gels and creams tend to come in concentrations of 1,2,5 and 10%.

These topical treatments allow testosterone to be absorbed directly through the skin, providing a more gradual and steady release of the hormone. Gels and creams are particularly appealing to individuals looking for a daily, self-administered method that doesn’t require regular doctor visits for injections. In this section, we’ll explore how testosterone gels and creams work and their potential benefits.

Testosterone Gel

Testosterone gel is a popular alternative to injections for those undergoing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Testosterone gel is applied directly to the skin, typically on areas like the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen, where the hormone is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. This method provides a steady release of testosterone throughout the day, helping to maintain more consistent hormone levels.

Pros of Testosterone Gels

• Convenience: Easy to apply at home without the need for medical supervision.
• Steady Hormone Levels: Provides a consistent release of testosterone throughout the day, leading to stable hormone levels.
• Non-Invasive: Avoids the discomfort of injections, making it a more comfortable option for many users.
• Flexible Dosing: Allows for more precise adjustments in dosage as needed.
• Immediate Effect: The gel begins to work as soon as it’s absorbed through the skin.

Cons of Testosterone Gels

• Risk of Transfer: There’s a potential for the hormone to transfer to others through skin-to-skin contact if the application site isn’t fully absorbed or covered. If accidental contact happens, wash the skin of the person or pet right away with soap and water.
• Daily Application: Requires daily use, which some may find inconvenient compared to less frequent injections.
• Variable Absorption: Individual absorption rates can vary, leading to inconsistent blood testosterone in some users.
• Skin Irritation: Some users may experience skin reactions or irritation at the application site.
• Lower Peak Levels: May not achieve the same peak testosterone levels as injections, which can be important for some patients.

Testosterone Cream

Testosterone cream is a topical treatment option for men with low testosterone levels. Applied directly to the skin, it allows for the gradual absorption of testosterone into the bloodstream, helping to restore normal hormone levels. Testosterone cream offers a convenient and non-invasive alternative to injections, with the flexibility of daily dosing. It is often applied to areas like the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen, where the skin is thinner for better absorption.

Pros of testosterone creams

• Non-Invasive: No needles or injections are required, making it a comfortable option for those who prefer to avoid more invasive methods.
• Easy Application: Simple to apply, usually on the skin of the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen.
• Steady Absorption: Provides a consistent release of testosterone throughout the day, helping to maintain stable hormone levels.
• Adjustable Dosing: The dose can be easily adjusted by the amount of cream applied, offering flexibility in treatment.
• Convenient: Can be applied at home without the need for frequent doctor visits. 

Cons of testosterone creams

• Risk of Transfer: The cream can be accidentally transferred to others through skin contact, which can be a concern, especially around children or women.
• Daily Application Required: Must be applied consistently every day, which can be a hassle for some users and cause a missed dose. A missed dose may affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Skin Irritation: Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions at the application site.
• Less Potent: Compared to injections, creams might offer lower amounts testosterone , which might not be sufficient for all users.
• Absorption Variability: The effectiveness can vary depending on individual skin absorption rates, leading to less predictable outcomes.

Risks of Testosterone replacement therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for men and women with low-T, but like any medical treatment, it comes with certain risks.

Here are some potential risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT):

• Blood clots: TRT may increase the risk of developing a blood clot, which can lead to deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Some studies suggest a correlation between blood clots and TRT, while others find no connection.
• Prostate cancer: Although the link is not definitively proven, there is concern that TRT could contribute to the growth of existing prostate cancer or increase the risk of developing it.
• Enlarged prostate: TRT may cause the prostate to enlarge, leading to symptoms like difficulty urinating.
• Breast cancer: While rare in men, TRT may slightly increase the risk of developing breast cancer, especially in those with predisposing factors.
• Sleep apnea: TRT can exacerbate sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
• Cardiovascular risks: Some studies suggest that TRT might increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes, particularly in older men or those with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Fluid retention: TRT can cause the body to retain fluids, leading to swelling in the lower limbs or other areas.

Book Free Consultation

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, it’s not so much a question of which is the best administration method. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to Testosterone Replacement Therapy but what we can say is that each method is effective at improving low testosterone symptoms in their own right. The answer to which method is best for you comes down to your specific circumstances.

The use of gels and creams is an easy option with minimal hassle however, it does come with its drawbacks. Heavy sweating and friction can interfere with the gels and creams’ absorption. Similarly, there is a high risk of transferral of the preparation when coming into contact with others. This can be particularly troublesome if you’re in contact with pregnant women or women trying to get pregnant.

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-hearted and many reject them outright due to needle phobia.

Remember, always consult a doctor before purchasing any medication or beginning any treatment. If you think you’re suffering from low testosterone, don’t hesitate to contact us to see how we can help you.

Evidence Based Research

This article has been researched and written based on scientific evidence and fact sheets that have then been crossed checked by our team of doctors and subject matter experts.

References, sources and studies used alongside our own in-house research have been cited below, most of which contain external clickable links to reviewed scientific paper that contain date stamped evidence.

Our team of healthcare experts and GMC registered doctors are licensed to UK GMC standards. We strive to provide you with the latest evidence based, researched articles that are unbiased, honest and provide you with accurate insights, statistics and helpful information on the discussed topic to ensure you gain a better understanding of the subject. You can read more about our Editorial Process by clicking here.

We value your feedback on our articles, if you have a well-researched paper you would like to share with us please contact us.