Testosterone Gel vs. Injections

March 30, 2024

5 mins

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment designed to address low levels of testosterone in the body, a condition known as hypogonadism. 

Testosterone is a vital hormone primarily produced in the testes in males and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands in females. It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes – including the development of reproductive tissues, secondary sexual characteristics, bone density, muscle mass, mood regulation, and libido.

Hypogonadism can occur due to various factors, including aging, certain medical conditions (such as testicular disorders, pituitary gland disorders, or chronic illnesses), injuries, or medications. 

Symptoms of low testosterone levels may include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, irritability, decreased bone density, and changes in body composition.

Testosterone replacement therapy aims to restore testosterone levels to within normal ranges, alleviate symptoms of hypogonadism, and improve overall quality of life. TRT involves administering exogenous testosterone to supplement the body's natural production. 

It’s available in various forms, two of the most popular being injections and gels.

Need a testosterone solution?

Elevate your vitality and supercharge your life with Rex MD.

Get Started

How are Testosterone Gel and Injections Similar?

Testosterone gel and injections are both forms of testosterone replacement therapy that aim to supplement low testosterone levels in the body. Despite their differences in administration method, they share several similarities:

Testosterone delivery

Both testosterone gel and injections deliver exogenous testosterone into the body to raise testosterone levels to within normal ranges. They provide a direct source of testosterone to compensate for insufficient endogenous production.

Treatment of hypogonadism

Both testosterone gel and injections are commonly used to treat hypogonadism – a condition characterized by low testosterone levels in the body. They can help alleviate symptoms associated with low testosterone and improve overall quality of life.

Efficacy

Testosterone gel and injections have been shown to be effective in increasing testosterone levels and improving symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, mood disturbances, and reduced muscle mass and strength.

Dosage adjustment

Both forms of testosterone replacement therapy allow for dosage adjustment to achieve optimal testosterone levels. Healthcare providers can monitor testosterone levels through blood tests and adjust the dosage of gel or injections as needed to maintain therapeutic levels.

Frequency of administration

While testosterone gel and injections differ in their frequency of administration, they both require regular use to maintain therapeutic effects. Testosterone gel is typically applied daily, while injections may be administered weekly, biweekly, or less frequently, depending on the specific formulation and dosage.

Potential side effects

Both testosterone gel and injections carry similar potential side effects, including:

• Acne

• Fluid retention

• Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)

• Mood changes

• Changes in cholesterol levels

It's essential for individuals undergoing testosterone replacement therapy to be aware of these potential side effects and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers.

How are Testosterone Gel and Injections Different?

Despite their shared goal of increasing testosterone levels, they differ in several key aspects:

Administration method

Testosterone gel is applied topically to the skin, typically on the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen. The gel is absorbed through the skin, allowing for gradual release of testosterone into the bloodstream.

On the other hand, testosterone injections involve the injection of testosterone directly into the muscle (intramuscular) or under the skin (subcutaneous). This method delivers a more immediate and concentrated dose of testosterone into the bloodstream.

Frequency of administration

Testosterone gel is typically applied once daily, usually in the morning, to maintain stable testosterone levels throughout the day.

Testosterone injections are administered less frequently, ranging from weekly to every few weeks, depending on the specific formulation and dosage. Some individuals may require less frequent injections due to longer-acting formulations.

Absorption rate

Testosterone gel provides a slower, more gradual release of testosterone into the bloodstream over time. This may result in more stable testosterone levels compared to injections.

Alternatively, testosterone injections deliver a more rapid increase in testosterone levels shortly after administration, followed by a gradual decline until the next dose is administered.

Dosage adjustments

Testosterone gel allows for easier dosage adjustments by modifying the amount of gel applied daily. Healthcare providers can monitor testosterone levels through blood tests and adjust the dosage of gel accordingly.

Testosterone injections require healthcare providers to adjust the dosage of each injection based on individual needs and response to treatment. Dosage adjustments may be made less frequently compared to gel, depending on the frequency of injections.

Application site and convenience

Testosterone gel is applied topically to specific areas of the skin, allowing for easy self-administration at home. However, individuals must take care to avoid skin-to-skin contact with others until the gel has fully absorbed to prevent unintentional transfer of testosterone.

Testosterone injections are a little different. They require administration by a healthcare provider and may be less convenient for some individuals due to the need for medical visits and potential discomfort associated with injections.

Potential side effects

While testosterone gel and injections share similar potential side effects, the frequency and severity of side effects may vary between the two forms of therapy. 

For example, injection site reactions are specific to testosterone injections, while skin irritation or transfer of testosterone to others are concerns with testosterone gel.

Overall, the choice between testosterone gel and injections depends on individual preferences, lifestyle factors, and healthcare provider recommendations. Both forms of therapy can effectively raise testosterone levels and improve symptoms associated with low testosterone when used as prescribed.

How Do You Get Testosterone Gel or Injections?

Testosterone gel and injections are prescription medications. Testosterone is a controlled substance, and its use should be monitored by a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. 

It's important to note that testosterone replacement therapy should only be obtained through a licensed healthcare provider and used under their supervision. Self-medication or obtaining testosterone products from unauthorized sources can pose serious health risks and is not recommended.

Additionally, individuals considering testosterone replacement therapy should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and undergo a thorough medical evaluation before starting treatment.

With the Rex MD TestoRx program, you’ll have access quality care from a team of licensed clinicians and testosterone replacement therapies (if clinically appropriate) and other testosterone solutions that can help you feel like yourself again.

To find out if the program is right for you, just answer some questions about your symptoms and medical history. Your provider will order lab work for you to help determine if you’re eligible for TRT or another testosterone solution available through the program.

Then, you’ll be able to schedule a virtual call with the Rex MD care team to further discuss your results, eligibility, and which treatment option would be most suitable for you, if any.

Get started today.