Testosterone is sometimes given to transgender people as part of their gender affirmation and transition. Some women receive testosterone as a treatment for androgen deficiency, which can occur after menopause. The most common symptom of androgen deficiency in women is decreased libido. [2] X Research source Finally, some men seek testosterone treatment to counteract the normal effects of decreased testosterone production that results with aging. However, this practice is still not well-studied, so many physicians advise against it. Some of the studies that have been done have given mixed results. [3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Topical gel or cream Skin patch (similar to a nicotine patch) Oral tablets Mucoadhesive applied to the teeth Testosterone stick (applied under the arm like deodorant) Subcutaneous implant
Acne and/or oily skin Fluid retention Stimulation of prostate tissue, which can result in decreased urine flow and frequency Development of breast tissue Worsening of sleep apnea Shrinking of the testes Decreased sperm count/infertility Increase in red blood cell count Changes in cholesterol levels
Another thing to consider is the fact that testosterone is fairly viscous and oily compared to other injectable medications. Because of this, you’ll want to initially use a slightly thicker-bore needle than normal (for instance, a 18 or 20-gauge) to draw up your dose. Thick needles can be especially painful, so, usually, you’ll remove the thicker needle and replace it with a thinner one when it comes time to give the actual injection. 3-mL (cc) syringes will be large enough for most testosterone doses. If you drop the syringe or needle, throw it away. Do not use it because it is no longer sterile.
Injecting air into the bottle raises its internal air pressure, making it easier to draw the medication into the syringe. This is especially important with testosterone, which can be difficult to draw because it’s so thick.
Note that the second needle must also be sealed and sterile.
Hold the syringe with its needle uncapped and pointing up in front of you. Look for air bubbles in the syringe. Flick the side of the syringe to get these bubbles to rise to the top. When your dosage is bubble-free, slowly depress the plunger to force the air at the top of the syringe out. Stop when you see a tiny drop of medication come out of the tip of the syringe. Be careful not to squirt or spray a significant portion of your dosage onto the floor.
If injecting into the glute, choose an injection site in the top outside section of the glute. In other words, pick a site either in the top left corner of the left glute or the top right corner of the right glute. These site have the best access to muscle tissue and allow you to avoid hitting nerves and blood vessels in other parts of the glute.
You may experience moderate discomfort, pressure, stinging, pressure, or slight burning. This is normal. If it becomes severe or if you feel shooting pain, stop immediately, and contact a doctor.
If you do not have a sharps container, find a sturdy, puncture-proof container, such as a laundry detergent bottle. Make sure that it has a tight-fitting lid. Take the container to your doctor’s office or a pharmacy to be safely disposed of. [7] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source If, after injection, you experience redness, swelling, or discomfort beyond that of normal soreness at the site of injection, contact a physician immediately.
