How to inject testosterone effectively very much depends on what protocols you follow. Traditionally intramuscular testosterone injections are the norm, with most clinics advising patients to inject weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, either self-administered or in a clinic. Male Excel, however, follows a different. We find micro-dosing daily far more effective with micro-fine subcutaneous injections.
Most testosterone injections use testosterone cypionate (brand name depo-testosterone), which is an FDA-approved medication for men who have a condition called hypogonadism. This condition is when the testicles do not produce enough hormone to maintain testosterone levels due to disease, injury or simply part of an age-related decline in production.
Injecting testosterone following our protocols aims to optimize your hormone levels to a constant level using daily subcutaneous injections.
What is a Subcutaneous Injection?
Subcutaneous injections deliver medication directly into the subcutaneous tissue, the layer of fat and connective tissue just below the skin. In comparison, intramuscular injection delivers the medication directly into a muscle. Subcutaneous injection is typically used for medicines that do not require rapid absorption, such as insulin or testosterone.
How to Inject Testosterone Subcutaneously
Never, Ever Re-use Needles!
Using new needles for each injection is essential for maintaining hygiene, preventing the spread of infections and diseases, and ensuring that the injection process is as safe and painless as possible.
Preparing for the Injection
Before administering a subcutaneous testosterone injection, gather the necessary supplies. These include:
- A vial of testosterone
- Alcohol wipes
- A syringe
- A subcutaneous needle
- A sharps container for proper disposal of the needle and syringe
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the injection materials. Ensure the testosterone vial has not expired, and carefully inspect the liquid for any particles or discoloration. Wipe the vial's rubber stopper with an alcohol wipe to ensure it is clean.
Drawing up the Testosterone
Attach the needle to the syringe and remove the plastic cap from the needle. Pull back the plunger of the syringe to draw air into the syringe equal to the amount of testosterone you need to inject. Then, insert the needle into the testosterone vial and inject the air into the vial. This will create a vacuum to help you draw the testosterone out of the vial.
Next, turn the vial upside down, keeping the needle in the vial, and slowly pull back the plunger to draw the desired amount of testosterone into the syringe. Double-check the amount of testosterone you have drawn up to ensure you have the correct dosage. Your medical provider will have stated your dosage.
Tip: Because testosterone is suspended in a viscous oil base, it often helps warm the vial in a bowl of warm water to make the liquid flow more easily and pull up into the vial.
Disinfect the Skin Before Administering a Subcutaneous Injection
Subcutaneous testosterone is best injected in the leanest area possible, which is generally the thigh or shoulder. Wipe the injection site with an alcohol wipe to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection. Allow the area to air dry before proceeding with the injection.
How to Inject Testosterone Correctly
Hold the syringe like a pencil and insert the needle into the skin at a 45-degree angle. Push the needle until the entire length inserts into the skin. Slowly push the plunger to inject the testosterone into the subcutaneous tissue.
Once you have injected the entire dose of testosterone, quickly remove the needle from the skin and apply pressure to the injection site with a clean cotton ball or gauze. This will help reduce bleeding and bruising.
Disposing of the Needle and Syringe
Make sure to dispose of the needle and syringe properly to prevent accidental injury or infection. Use a sharps container to dispose of medical sharps safely. Do not dispose of the needle and syringe in the trash or recycling bin.
Microdosing Testosterone is Often More Effective
TRT is available in various forms, including injections, gels, patches, and pellets. While weekly or bi-weekly injections have been the traditional method of administering testosterone, there has been increasing interest in microdosing testosterone daily as a potentially more effective alternative.
Microdosing involves administering a smaller amount of testosterone daily rather than a larger dose weekly or bi-weekly. Followers of microdosing argue that it leads to more stable levels of testosterone in the body, as opposed to the peaks and valleys that can occur with weekly or bi-weekly injections.
Additionally, daily microdosing may lead to fewer side effects, as the body is not experiencing large spikes and drops in testosterone levels. Microdosing can be particularly important for individuals sensitive to changes in hormone levels or who have experienced adverse side effects from TRT.
In summary, microdosing testosterone daily may be a more effective and potentially safer alternative to weekly or bi-weekly injections for individuals with low testosterone levels.
ARE INJECTIONS NOT FOR YOU?
Why not try our convenient testosterone cream - no needles and no fuss?
Subcutaneous Injections are Easy and Effective
Now you know how to inject testosterone, it should quickly become part of your daily routine. Subcutaneous testosterone injections can effectively treat men with low testosterone levels. Proper technique and hygiene are essential for a safe and effective injection. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and seek medical attention if you experience any side effects or complications. With proper training and practice, administering subcutaneous testosterone injections can become a routine and comfortable part of your TRT regimen.
Questions about testosterone treatment? Call (833) 625-3392 and talk to a Male Excel team member.
