If you experience sudden drops in energy levels, hair fall, and other problems, it may be a symptom of Hypogonadism or decreased levels of testosterone. There are other symptoms of low testosterone levels such as low libido, mood changes, reduced sperm production, fatigue, erectile dysfunction (ED), and others. However, you should worry about this because it is a treatable disease. Two effective options in the treatment of Hypogonadism are testosterone injection and gel. In this document, we will try to find which one is more effective.
Differences between Gel and Injection
Gel and Injection have different parameters. For example:
- Injection has better absorption than gel and it is more stable. The rate of absorption of the gel depends on several factors including the application site.
- Testosterone gels are easier to use than injections. Injections usually are applied weekly or monthly by a doctor in a clinic or hospital.
- In addition, prices also are different. For example, the average price for a unit is $3 for gels and $44 for injections.
Although gels and injections are different from each other, they remain the most effective in the treatment of Hypogonadism.
Duration and Action of Testosterone Injection and Gel
The two options of treatment also differ in onset and during action. Usually, the gel starts working roughly after 30 minutes and it may last 2-5 hours to its complete effects on testosterone levels. However, injection form of testosterone may take up to 4-6 weeks to see its effect on elevating testosterone levels. Commonly, the duration of testosterone gels is 24 hours while injection may last several weeks. In any case, this duration differs among people because it depends on several factors such as age.
Testosterone injections and gels like other medications may give you certain side effects. Check below some examples:
Common Side Effects of Testosterone Gels
- Blemishes on the skin
- Pimples burning
- Itching
- Skin rash
- Swelling
- Soreness at the application site
- Urinating problems (including frequent urination)
- Depression
- Nervousness
- Sweating
Common Adverse Effects of Testosterone Injections
- Acne
- Deepening of the voice
- Pain
- Redness
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Hardness at the injection site
- Tiredness
- Sleeping problems (insomnia)
- Mood swings
- Headaches
All these side effects may not occur if your body adjusts to the ingredients of gel or injection. Interrupt using either gel or injection in case, any of the adverse reactions listed above appear and tell your doctor promptly.
Before using these methods to treat your low testosterone levels, consult a doctor because they may also provoke severe side effects such as fainting, slow or shallow breathing, and others.
Tips
- It is advised to store these products at room temperature (below 30C or 86F degrees) and away from moisture and direct sunlight. Therefore, you should not keep them in the bathroom.
- Keep away testosterone medicines from the reach of children and pets because they may be harmful to them.
- Make sure that the product that you are using is not expired because it also may cause severe adverse reactions.
- It is not allowed to share these medicines with others.
