Category: Guides

When it comes to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), there are several methods of testosterone administration available, including injections, gels, patches, and pellets. However, two of the most common methods are subcutaneous (subq) injection and intramuscular (IM) injection. In this article, we will compare subQ vs IM testosterone, including their benefits, drawbacks, and considerations for choosing between the two.

Subq Injection of Testosterone

Subq injection involves injecting testosterone into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, usually in the abdomen or thigh. This method of administration has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential advantages over IM injection.

Benefits of Subq Injection

1. Lower Risk of Side Effects

One of the main advantages of subq injection is that it may be associated with a lower risk of side effects compared to IM injection. This is because subq injections are typically given in smaller doses, which may reduce the risk of adverse reactions. Additionally, subq injections may help to minimize fluctuations in testosterone levels, which can also help to reduce the risk of side effects.

2. More Consistent Hormone Levels

Another benefit of subq injection is that it may help to maintain more consistent hormone levels compared to IM injection. This is because subq injections are absorbed more slowly than IM injections, which can result in more stable hormone levels over time. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience fluctuations in testosterone levels or who require more consistent levels of the hormone for optimal health.

3. Increased Convenience and Flexibility

Subq injection can also offer increased convenience and flexibility compared to IM injection. Because subq injections are typically given with a smaller needle and into a less sensitive area of the body, they may be less painful and easier to administer than IM injections. Additionally, subq injections can be given at home, which can be more convenient than visiting a healthcare provider for injections.

Drawbacks of Subq Injection

1. Potential for Injections Site Reactions

One of the main drawbacks of subq injection is the potential for injection site reactions, such as pain, swelling, or redness. However, these reactions are typically mild and resolve on their own within a few days.

2. Higher Volume of Injection

Another potential drawback of subq injection is the higher volume of injection required. This can make the injection take longer to administer compared to IM injection.

Intramuscular Injection of Testosterone

IM injection involves injecting testosterone directly into a muscle, usually the gluteus maximus (buttocks), quadriceps (thigh), or deltoid (shoulder).

Benefits of IM Injection

1. Lower Risk of Injection Site Reactions

One of the main advantages of IM injection is the lower risk of injection site reactions compared to subq injection. This is because the muscle tissue has a greater blood supply, which can help to disperse the injected medication and reduce the risk of local reactions.

2. Smaller Volume of Injection

Another advantage of IM injection is the smaller volume of injection required. This can make the injection quicker and more convenient to administer compared to subq injection.

3. Long-Acting Formulations Available

Finally, there are long-acting formulations of testosterone available for IM injection, such as testosterone enanthate or cypionate. These formulations typically only need to be administered every 2-4 weeks, which can be more convenient for individuals who do not want to administer injections as frequently.

Drawbacks of IM Injection

1. Higher Risk of Side Effects

One of the main drawbacks of IM injection is the higher risk of side effects compared to subq injection. This is because IM injections are typically given in larger doses, which can increase the risk of adverse reactions.

2. Fluctuations in Hormone Levels

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that subq injections had similar efficacy and safety profiles compared to IM injections in hypogonadal men. The study followed 45 men who were randomly assigned to receive either subq or IM injections of testosterone over the course of 12 weeks. The researchers found that both groups had similar improvements in testosterone levels, with no significant differences in adverse events between the two groups.

While these studies suggest that subq injections may be a viable alternative to IM injections for testosterone replacement therapy, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well. One potential disadvantage of subq injections is that they may be associated with more injection site reactions compared to IM injections. Some individuals may experience pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site with subq injections, although these side effects are generally mild and temporary.

Another potential disadvantage of subq injections is that they may be less suitable for individuals with very low muscle mass or very high body fat levels. This is because the fatty tissue layer just beneath the skin may be thicker in individuals with high body fat levels, which could make it more difficult to inject the testosterone into the appropriate area. In these cases, IM injections may be a more appropriate option.

Finally, it is worth noting that subQ vs IM testosterone injections may not be covered by insurance in some cases. While testosterone replacement therapy is generally covered by insurance, the specific method of administration may not be covered. Individuals who are considering subq injections should check with their insurance provider to determine whether this method of administration is covered under their plan.

Despite these potential drawbacks, subq injections may offer several advantages over IM injections for some individuals. One of the main advantages of subq injections is that they may be associated with a lower risk of adverse reactions compared to IM injections. This is because subq injections are typically given in smaller doses, which may help to reduce the risk of side effects. Additionally, subq injections may help to minimize fluctuations in testosterone levels, which can also help to reduce the risk of side effects.

Another advantage of subq injections is that they may be more convenient and easier to administer compared to IM injections. Because subq injections are typically given with a smaller needle and into a less sensitive area of the body, they may be less painful and easier to tolerate than IM injections. Additionally, subq injections can be self-administered at home, which can be more convenient than visiting a healthcare provider for injections.

Overall, the choice between subQ vs IM testosterone injections for testosterone replacement therapy will depend on a variety of factors, including individual preferences, medical history, and insurance coverage. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best method of testosterone administration for your individual needs and to monitor your hormone levels to ensure that you are receiving the appropriate dose of testosterone.

In conclusion, subq injections of testosterone offer several potential advantages over IM injections for testosterone replacement therapy, including a potentially lower risk of side effects, more consistent hormone levels, and increased convenience and flexibility. However, there may also be some potential drawbacks to consider, including more injection site reactions and less suitability for individuals with very low muscle mass or very high body fat levels. Ultimately, the choice between subq injections and IM injections will depend on individual preferences, medical history, and insurance coverage, and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Subcutaneous (subQ) testosterone is an especially beneficial route of administration for men suffering from low testosterone

Dr John Crisler

Before we dive into the specifics of dosing testosterone (enanthate, cypionate, and other esters) subcutaneously, it’s important to note that subQ testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) should only be prescribed and monitored by a licensed healthcare provider. Self-administering testosterone or other hormones can lead to serious health complications.

That being said, if you have been prescribed subQ testosterone subcutaneous injections and need guidance on how to properly dose, here are some steps to follow:

1. Wash your hands and the injection site with soap and water.
2. Choose an injection site. The most common areas are the abdomen, upper thigh, or upper arm. It’s important to rotate injection sites to avoid tissue damage or scarring.
3. Take out your vial of testosterone and a syringe. Draw up the appropriate dose as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Make sure to check for air bubbles in the syringe and expel them before injecting.
4. Pinch the skin at the injection site to create a small fold.
5. Insert the needle into the fold at a 45-degree angle.
6. Slowly inject the testosterone into the subcutaneous tissue.
7. Once the injection is complete, remove the needle and apply pressure to the injection site with a sterile cotton ball or gauze.
8. Dispose of the syringe and needle in a sharps container.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency of injections. Some people may require more or less frequent injections depending on their individual needs. It’s also important to monitor for any side effects or changes in symptoms and report them to your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, dosing testosterone subcutaneously requires proper technique and guidance from a healthcare provider. It’s important to follow their instructions and monitor for any potential complications. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider.

(Continued…)

Subcutaneous (subq) injection of testosterone is a method of administering testosterone that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Testosterone is a hormone that is critical for the development and maintenance of male characteristics, including muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive. It also plays a role in overall health, affecting everything from mood to cardiovascular health. Unfortunately, testosterone levels can decline as men age, leading to a condition known as hypogonadism. Hypogonadism can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, decreased muscle mass, and reduced sex drive.

Subq testosterone injections involve injecting testosterone into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, rather than into a muscle. This method of administration has several benefits over other methods, including potentially lower risk of side effects.

One of the main advantages of subq testosterone injections is that they may be associated with a lower risk of side effects compared to other methods of testosterone administration. This is because subq injections are typically given in smaller doses than intramuscular injections, which may reduce the risk of adverse reactions. Additionally, subq injections may help to minimize fluctuations in testosterone levels, which can also help to reduce the risk of side effects.

More consistent hormone levels

Another benefit of subq testosterone injections is that they may help to maintain more consistent hormone levels compared to other methods of testosterone administration. This is because subq injections are absorbed more slowly than intramuscular injections, which can result in more stable hormone levels over time. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience fluctuations in testosterone levels or who require more consistent levels of the hormone for optimal health.

Increased convenience and flexibility

Subq testosterone injections can also offer increased convenience and flexibility compared to other methods of testosterone administration. Because subq injections are typically given with a smaller needle and into a less sensitive area of the body, they may be less painful and easier to administer than intramuscular injections. Additionally, subq injections can be given at home, which can be more convenient than visiting a healthcare provider for injections.

Better option for individuals who are afraid of needles or who have trouble with other methods of testosterone administration

Finally, subq testosterone injections may be a better option for individuals who are afraid of needles or who have trouble with other methods of testosterone administration. Because subq injections are given with a smaller needle and into a less sensitive area of the body, they may be less intimidating and easier to tolerate than intramuscular injections. Additionally, subq injections can be self-administered at home, which can be beneficial for individuals who have difficulty visiting a healthcare provider for injections.

Overall, subq testosterone injections can provide a safe, effective, and convenient way to manage low testosterone levels. However, as with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether subq testosterone injections are right for you. Your healthcare provider can help you to determine the best method of testosterone administration for your individual needs and can monitor your hormone levels to ensure that you are receiving the appropriate dose of testosterone.

While subq testosterone injections can be a safe and effective treatment for adults with low testosterone levels, it is important to note that the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), including testosterone, can be dangerous, particularly for teens. Teenagers who use PEDs to enhance athletic performance or improve their appearance may be at risk for a variety of serious health problems, including heart disease, liver damage, and stunted growth. In addition, the use of PEDs can lead to a range of psychological issues, including depression, anxiety, and aggression.

In addition to the potential dangers associated with the use of PEDs, there are also some potential risks associated with the use of testosterone replacement therapy in general. For example, testosterone replacement therapy may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Overall, subQ TRT is worth researching and if you have any questions, you can always contact us.