Testosterone replacement therapy can come in a variety for forms, including patches, oral tablets, injections and gels. There are also rice-size pellets, which are implanted under the skin, usually near the hip or on the buttocks.
Understanding the pellet treatment
The testosterone pellets deliver a low-dose form of the hormone for up to six months, providing steady release through the crystallized hormone inside.
The procedure typically takes place in the doctor’s office, and only takes about 10 minutes. The injection site is cleaned and then injected with an anesthetic. A tiny incision opens the area for the pellet.
Side effects of testosterone pellets
Although experts agree that the testosterone pellets can provide some benefit to men who need more of the hormone, the treatment can come with some side effects, including:
- acne
- fluid retention
- increased red blood cell production
- reduced sperm count
- shrinking testicles
- oily skin
- decreased urine stream
- new or worsening sleep apnea
- swelling of prostate or breast tissue
- frequent urination
Pellets, specifically, can also raise a man’s risk of developing an infection at the insertion site. There’s also a chance that you could receive the incorrect dosage of testosterone, or that the pellet could become dislodged
Risk of taking testosterone
By taking testosterone, you run the risk of the body no longer being able produce the hormone on its own. Testosterone treatments can also raise your risk for heart attack, prostate cancer and heart disease, so you’ll need to discuss your personal and family medical history with your doctor to decide if it’s the right path for you.
Effectiveness of the pellets
For most part, the pellets seem to provide a relatively good rate of satisfactory compared to men who use the gels or injections.
According to Medical News Today, one 2014 study found that 70% of the men use used the pellet treatments were satisfied, and 64% of the men who used them favored them over the other forms of therapy for their ease of use. Again, have a conversation with your doctor to discuss the pros and cons to help you make your decision.
