Testosterone injections are given for a number of reasons: to men who need help for sexual dysfunction; to postmenopausal women who are low in the hormone; and to transgender men and nonbinary people who may use them to become more masculine.
Symptoms of low testosterone
When testosterone is low, you may notice symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, more body fat and low muscle mass. Low testosterone may also lower your sperm count.
Known as “hypogonadism,” low testosterone production in the testicles doesn’t always need treatment. Even if you do need treatment, it’s not safe for everyone. In fact, the Food & Drug Administration has only approved testosterone therapy for men who have low testosterone because of disorders in the brain, testicles and pituitary gland. Testosterone replacement therapy isn’t approved for age-related decline.
Administering testosterone injections
You may be able choose whether to have a doctor give you the shots (in the buttocks) at their office or do them at home yourself (in the thigh).
Even if you choose to do the injections yourself at home, you will need to visit your doctor every few months to check in and monitor your changes.
Risk of testosterone injections
For most men, testosterone injections are safe, although there is always a risk. Possible side effects and complications include:
- a greater risk of venous thrombosis
- a greater risk of polycythemia (a rare type of blood cancer)
- problems in the lower urinary tract
- a greater risk of cardiovascular problems
- an allergic reaction
- acne
- back pain
- joint pain
- mood swings
- breast pain or enlargement
- headaches
Some forms of testosterone may raise your blood pressure, which can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. If you’ve got a history of hypertension, heart attacks, strokes or heart disease, be sure to share this information with your doctor before starting any testosterone therapy.
