What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a male steroid hormone that plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy sex drive. However, its functions extend beyond this, affecting several other aspects of health, including body fat, muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell count, and mood. Testosterone is naturally present in all people, regardless of the sex assigned at birth. It contributes to the growth, development, and functioning of the male sexual organs and typical male characteristics [1, 2 ,3].
What are Testosterone Injections?
Testosterone injections are a form of treatment known as testosterone replacement therapy. They are often suggested by doctors when a blood test shows that testosterone levels are significantly below the normal range of 300 to 1,000 ng/dL. The injection is typically administered in the gluteal muscles in the buttocks, but self-administration in the thigh muscles may also be allowed in some cases. Testosterone injections are used to treat symptoms of low Testosterone in men who have hypogonadism, a condition in which the body does not produce enough natural Testosterone [1, 2].
Uses of Testosterone Injections
Testosterone injections have been associated with several potential benefits.
Sexual Health
One of the most significant advantages of testosterone injections is the enhancement of sex drive. Men with low testosterone levels often experience reduced libido, which can be improved through these injections. Additionally, they can help alleviate symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED). [1].
Physical Health
Testosterone injections can also have positive effects on physical health. They can lead to more energy, improved muscle mass, and increased bone density. Testosterone therapy has been shown to reduce body fat and increase lean body mass [3]. It can also improve bone mineral density and architecture by increasing bone formation and decreasing bone resorption [3].
Mental Health
Testosterone injections can improve mood. Men with low testosterone levels often experience symptoms such as depression, fatigue, and irritability, and testosterone injections can help to alleviate these symptoms [1]. Testosterone treatment for men aged 34 to 70 has improved spatial memory [4].
Longevity
There is also evidence that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can increase longevity by approximately 2% annually [5].
When does Testosterone peak after injection?
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In conclusion, the time to peak testosterone levels after injection can vary widely, from immediately after injection to several days post-injection, depending on the form of Testosterone used and individual factors.
Side effects of Testosterone Injections
Testosterone injections can cause a lot of side effects ranging from minor to more severe and vary based on individual factors.
Minor Side Effects
Minor potential side effects of testosterone injections include:
- acne,
- fluid retention,
- and increased urination [7]. Some individuals may also experience:
- pain,
- redness, bruising, bleeding, or hardness at the injection site,
- tiredness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep,
- mood swings,
- weight gain,
- headache, joint pain, and back pain [8].
Severe Side Effects
More severe side effects include breast enlargement, decreased testicle size, worsening of existing sleep apnea, increased cholesterol levels, reduced sperm count, and infertility [7]. Increased red blood cells can cause muscle pain, high blood pressure, blurry vision, chest pain, and blood clots in your blood vessels [7].
Testosterone injections can also trigger a rollercoaster-like series of changes in mood, sexual activity, and energy levels due to the highs and lows of testosterone dosage [9]. In some cases, testosterone injections can lead to testosterone being broken down and converted into estradiol, an oestrogen, which can potentially lead to breast growth and tenderness [9].
Very severe side effects can include lower leg pain, swelling, warmth, or redness, nausea or vomiting, swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, difficulty breathing, especially during sleep, erections that happen too often or that last too long, difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, frequent urination, sudden need to urinate right away, blood in the urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, pain in the upper right part of the stomach, mood changes including depression, anxiety, or becoming suicidal (thinking about harming or killing oneself or planning or trying to do so) [2].
It's important to note that these side effects may not occur in all individuals and can vary based on individual factors. If you experience any of these side effects, it's essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.