The Comprehensive Guide to Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): Oral vs. Injectable
If you’re struggling with symptoms of low testosterone, such as reduced sex drive and fatigue, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help restore your energy and well-being. With various TRT options available—from pellets and pills to injections and creams—it can be challenging to determine which method is right for you. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of oral TRT versus injectable TRT, including efficacy rates, side effects, and more, to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Oral Testosterone Undecanoate: Convenient and effective, avoids discomfort and risks associated with injections and topical creams. Newer formulations reduce the risk of liver toxicity.
- Testosterone Injections: Provide significant T level boosts but come with drawbacks like pain, side effects, and fertility concerns.
- Goal of Oral TRT: Maintain testosterone levels within the normal range.
What is Oral TRT?
Oral testosterone undecanoate is a prescription-only therapy for men with low testosterone levels. It helps reduce symptoms like low libido, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, depression, and excess body fat by increasing testosterone synthetically. Oral TRT is appealing for those looking to avoid the pain of injections, transdermal irritation, or unintended testosterone transfer from creams and gels.
Newer formulations of oral testosterone, such as testosterone undecanoate, bypass the liver and are absorbed by the lymphatic system, reducing the risk of liver toxicity.
How Does Oral Testosterone Work?
Testosterone undecanoate bypasses the liver and is absorbed by the intestinal lymphatic system, facilitated by long-chain fatty acids. Once absorbed, it is metabolized into active metabolites, including hydrotestosterone (DHT) and estradiol. These metabolites act on androgen receptors, bringing serum testosterone levels to within the eugonadal range (300–1000 ng/dL).
Effectiveness of Oral TRT Therapy
Clinical studies have shown oral TRT to be an effective long-term treatment for men with low testosterone levels. In a two-year safety and efficacy analysis, oral testosterone undecanoate maintained normal testosterone levels without liver toxicity. Another study showed significant improvements in testosterone levels and symptoms of sexual dysfunction and quality of life with oral TRT.
Comparing Different Types of Oral TRT
Recent FDA-approved oral TRT medications include Tlando®, Jatenzo®, and Kyzatrex™. All bypass the liver and are absorbed by the lymphatic system. Kyzatrex ™ shows a 96% success rate in restoring normal testosterone levels with a lower risk of hypertension compared to Tlando and Jatenzo.
Oral Testosterone vs. Injection
Testosterone injections were once considered the gold standard for treating low testosterone, known for extended dosing periods and reliable effects. However, injections can be painful and carry risks like swelling, muscle scarring, allergic reactions, and a higher risk of long-term side effects, including infertility.
Oral TRT avoids these drawbacks and promotes better medication adherence due to its convenience. It also has a lower risk of severe side effects compared to injections.
Impact on Testosterone Levels and Symptoms
Testosterone injections can lead to “peaks and troughs,” causing significant boosts and fluctuations in T levels. Oral TRT aims to maintain T levels within the normal range, providing stable hormone levels and reducing the risk of mood and libido fluctuations associated with injections.
Side Effects
Side effects of testosterone injections include decreased sperm count, testicular shrinkage, enlarged prostate, acne, sleep apnea, cardiovascular issues, and breast growth. Oral testosterone side effects include nausea, headaches, and upper respiratory tract infections, with a lower risk of high blood pressure.
Conclusion
Choosing between oral TRT and injectable TRT depends on your individual needs and lifestyle. Oral TRT, especially with options like Kyzatrex™, offers a convenient, non-invasive option with fewer severe side effects, making it an appealing choice for many.
Further Reading and Resources:
- Learn more about the benefits of TRT
- Listen to the God Mode podcast on mental health & hormone optimization
- Explore our comprehensive TRT services
At Elevétion Health, we are committed to providing you with the knowledge and treatments to optimize your well-being. For personalized guidance and more details on how TRT can improve your quality of life, see if you qualify, fill out a 2 minute survey by clicking here or contact us today at 866-967-3865
