Injectable Testosterone Cypionate – What Is It?

Testosterone cypionate is a supplemental form of the androgen hormone testosterone. It is a self-injectable medication that men can administer in the comfort and privacy of their homes to treat testosterone deficiency. You can purchase testosterone cypionate as a generic drug, or under the commonly prescribed brand names of Depo-Testosterone and Watson. Other, lesser quality brand names may be found online. However, many are not recommended for use. Testosterone cypionate is often counterfeited overseas. Buying it off the black market from unregulated internet websites can be a dangerous proposition. In generic form, testosterone cypionate is made in special compounding pharmacies throughout the US. Testosterone cypionate is a regulated and controlled substance, and as such, it requires a doctor’s prescription for purchase in the US. Buying testosterone cypionate without a prescription is illegal and could result in jail time or fines. If your hormone specialist prescribes testosterone cypionate for use following your examination and blood tests, discuss the pros and cons of treatment and always follow all directions for proper use. Do not stop taking testosterone cypionate or alter the dosage or frequency without consulting with your physician.

Your hormone physician may prescribe testosterone cypionate injections to treat testosterone deficiency.

Uses for Testosterone Cypionate

Testosterone cypionate treats the symptoms of hypogonadism (Low T) in men. Testosterone deficiency itself is not necessarily a dangerous condition as its symptoms are more bothersome than life-threatening. However, if left untreated, hypogonadism can increase the risk of more severe medical conditions such as:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Atherosclerosis – hardening of the arteries
• Heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• Osteoporosis

Testosterone cypionate – why it’s used:

Doctors use testosterone cypionate for men who experience the symptoms of Low T that can impact their daily activities. Hypogonadism may cause a decline in sex drive, muscle mass, morning erections, mood, and productivity. Men with Low T may suffer from depression, weight gain, erectile dysfunction, gynecomastia (increased breast tissue), hair loss, anemia, brain fog, and forgetfulness. Testosterone cypionate may be prescribed to treat both primary and secondary hypogonadism. In primary hypogonadism, the issue stems from the testicles not producing enough testosterone. Secondary hypogonadism occurs when either the hypothalamus or pituitary gland do not send enough hormones to stimulate testosterone production.

Testosterone cypionate – how it works:

Doctors use testosterone cypionate to provide an increased boost of testosterone to the body to make up for what it does not produce. Testosterone cypionate works in the body by binding with androgen receptors just as natural testosterone secreted by the testes would work – with one exception. Testicular testosterone influences spermatogenesis – the maturation of sperm cells created by the Sertoli cells. Supplemental testosterone cypionate enters the bloodstream but not the testicles. It does not influence sperm maturation. For that reason, doctors sometimes caution against its use in men dealing with infertility or those trying to conceive. Testosterone cypionate can be used together with human chorionic gonadotropin. The hormone HCG will promote testicular testosterone production through its signaling to the Leydig cells in the testes at while testosterone cypionate helps to directly raise testosterone levels to eliminate the other symptoms of Low T.

Doctors prescribe testosterone cypionate to make up for what the body does not produce to reduce symptoms of Low T and decrease other health risks.

Important Warnings About Testosterone Cypionate

Testosterone cypionate is a safe form of hormone replacement therapy for males with hypogonadism when used as instructed. Doctors have prescribed testosterone for over seven decades. That does not, however, mean it is safe for everyone. Testosterone cypionate should not be used by a man who does not have Low T. Increasing testosterone levels too high can result in dangerous side effects. Although numerous studies have not shown testosterone cypionate to increase the risk of heart attacks or prostate cancer, it is important to be cognizant of any potential reactions or changes in the body. Report all concerns at once to your prescribing doctor. Do not buy testosterone cypionate or any other form of supplemental testosterone on the black market. That type of purchase can increase your risk of receiving a potentially dangerous drug. Abuse of testosterone is the primary factor for adverse reactions.

Only use testosterone cypionate when prescribed by a doctor.

Testosterone Cypionate Benefits

Testosterone cypionate helps to reverse the symptoms of hypogonadism. Because testosterone impacts so many functions, you can expect varied benefits of testosterone cypionate. Here are the main benefits from treatment with testosterone cypionate:

• Better sleep and more energy
• Improved muscle tone and strength
• Increased bone mineral density and a reduced risk of fractures
• Loss of excess belly fat for a more physically toned body
• Happier mood and disposition, reduced feelings of depression
• Sharper brain functions, focus, and memory
• Better hair growth
• Enhanced sexual desire, arousal, and improved erectile functions
• Increased red blood cell production
• Improved heart health
• Lower cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels

Testosterone cypionate benefits extend to many areas of the body.

Testosterone Cypionate Side Effects

Most men who use doctor-prescribed testosterone cypionate will never experience any side effects – other than injection site irritation or redness. Those who purchase and use testosterone cypionate illegally without a prescription have the biggest risk of adverse reactions. Testosterone cypionate most common side effects:

• Swelling, pain, redness, or irritation at the injection site
• Gynecomastia
• Oily skin
• Adult acne
• Changes in mood, depression or aggression
• Headaches
• Bodily hair growth
• Erectile changes – more frequent or persistent erections
• Decreased sperm count

Some side effects of testosterone cypionate, such as oily skin and gynecomastia, tend to go away on their own as the body adjusts to the increased testosterone levels. In other instances, the physician may reduce the dosage or frequency of injections to eliminate the reactions. Let your doctor know if you notice any adverse effects from testosterone cypionate. In rare cases, more serious side effects could occur, including:

• Liver problems resulting in:
  • Changes in appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal ache or swelling
  • Dark appearance of urine
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Jaundice (yellowing) of the whites of the eyes or the skin
  • Pale stools
  • Increased bruising
  • Edema or swelling in the ankles or legs
• Enlarged prostate gland:
  • Urinary changes in frequency, urge, or ability
  • Increased nocturnal urination
  • Weak stream or frequent stopping and starting mid-stream
  • Urinary straining
  • Inability to empty the bladder
  • Dribbling after urination
• Polycythemia – elevated red blood cell count:
  • Blood clots
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Impaired mental alertness
  • Stroke
  • Face turning red
  • confusion
• Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in lung):
  • Rapid pulse
  • Shortness of breath
  • Lightheaded, dizzy, fainting
  • Coughing up blood
  • Pain in chest that worsens with coughing or deep breathing
• Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in leg):
  • Pain or swelling in leg
• Heart attack:
  • Shortness of breath
  • Upper body discomfort
  • Chest pain
  • Pain in left arm
  • Nausea or vomiting
• Stroke:
  • Weakness on one side of the body
  • Numbness or pain in an arm or leg
  • Slurred speech
  • Sudden loss of coordination
  • Changes in vision
• Prostate cancer

If you experience any of these severe reactions to testosterone cypionate, contact your doctor immediately. If the situation is life-threatening, call 911 at once. Additional side effects of testosterone cypionate are possible. Each man will react to testosterone therapy differently. Make certain to discuss all medical concerns, history of illness, and medications along with any over-the-counter supplements used with the hormone specialist before beginning treatment.

Side effects stemming from testosterone cypionate use are rare when this medication is used as prescribed.

Testosterone Cypionate Interactions with Other Medications

Some medications do not mix well with others, and testosterone cypionate is no different. It is imperative to list all drugs that you take, as well as any vitamins, herbs, protein powders, amino acids, and other supplements on your health questionnaire. This will help the doctor determine if any changes need to be made prior to you starting testosterone cypionate. The following medication interactions may increase your risk of side effects:

• Warfarin or other oral blood thinners – when taking with testosterone, the risk of bleeding increases. Close monitoring is necessary when combining these medications.
• Oral drugs or insulin for diabetes – when taken with testosterone, blood sugar levels may decline. Your need for diabetes drugs may decrease. Close monitoring is necessary if you have diabetes.
• Corticosteroids or adrenocorticotropic hormones – in combination with testosterone these medications increase the risk of fluid retention that could result in edema. Individuals with liver or heart problems should discuss this risk with the doctor. Anyone using these medications will undergo close monitoring during testosterone therapy.

Testosterone cypionate could interact with some medications. Be honest with your doctor about everything you are taking – even over-the-counter supplements.

Testosterone Cypionate Warnings

Certain individuals should not use testosterone cypionate to treat Low T. Although testosterone cypionate is considered safe for most people, there are some precautions to discuss.

Testosterone cypionate allergy warning:

• Do not use testosterone cypionate if allergic to it, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, or cottonseed oil
• Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you notice any swelling in your tongue, face, or throat, or have trouble breathing, or notice any sudden rashes or hives
• Do not use testosterone cypionate again after having an allergic reaction

Testosterone cypionate warnings for certain health conditions:

• Blood clots –a history of blood clots increases the risk of further development with testosterone cypionate usage.
• Breast cancer – men diagnosed with breast cancer should not use testosterone cypionate.
• Cardiovascular problems – testosterone cypionate could increase water and salt retention – discuss this with your doctor.
• Diabetes – testosterone cypionate may decrease blood sugar levels – close monitoring is required.
• High cholesterol – there is an increased risk of elevated cholesterol levels that could lead to blood vessel or heart problems. Continue having your cholesterol levels monitored while receiving testosterone cypionate.
• Kidney problems – testosterone cypionate could increase water and salt retention that could worsen your kidney concerns. Chloride, potassium, and calcium levels could also be affected.
• Liver problems – if you have liver disease, your salt and water retention may increase and worsen your condition. Testosterone cypionate could lead to liver damage if abused or overused.
• Polycythemia – testosterone cypionate may significantly increase red blood cell counts and worsen this condition. Do not use testosterone cypionate with a hematocrit higher than 54%.
• Prostate cancer – although there are warnings about not using testosterone cypionate with prostate cancer, studies have not shown a connection. Discuss usage with your doctor.
• Sleep apnea – testosterone cypionate use may worsen sleep apnea. Let your doctor know if you wake more frequently at night, snore more, or are increasingly tired during the day.

Pregnant women should not use testosterone cypionate. The only time this medication is prescribed for females if for the treatment of certain hormone-specific forms of breast cancer. Women with Low T have other options for safe testosterone therapy such as custom compounded cream. Testosterone cypionate injections are not authorized for use by children younger than 12 years of age. It may affect and hinder bone growth

Always discuss any medical concerns with your hormone specialist before and during testosterone cypionate use.

How to Use Testosterone Cypionate

Your doctor will determine the frequency and dosage of your testosterone cypionate treatment based on your body’s needs. Factors that go into this decision include:

• Your level of testosterone deficiency as shown in blood test results
• Age, height, weight, body composition
• Severity of your symptoms
• Blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Other medical issues and treatments

Your dosage or frequency of administration may change after your first few doses once the doctor sees how your body reacts to the treatment.

Testosterone cypionate drug forms and strengths:

The physical appearance of testosterone cypionate is that of a white or creamy white powder, crystalline and odorless. It is stable at room temperature, insoluble in water, soluble in vegetable oils, and freely soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, and dioxane. Testosterone cypionate, both as a generic and under the brand name of Depo-Testosterone, comes supplied in the following ways:

• 100 mg/mL which contains:
  Testosterone cypionate100 mgCottonseed oil736 mgBenzyl benzoate0.1 mLBenzyl alcohol (preservative)9.45 mg
• 200 mg/mL which contains:
  Testosterone cypionate200 mgCottonseed oil560 mgBenzyl benzoate0.2 mLBenzyl alcohol (preservative)9.45 mg

Testosterone cypionate dosage for primary hypogonadism:

Your doctor will ascertain your testosterone cypionate dosage as part of the diagnostic process after reviewing your blood test and examination results. The typical adult starting dosage is between 50 and 200 mg injected intramuscularly into the thigh once every two weeks. Some men may receive a half dosage once a week instead after the doctor sees how your body metabolizes the testosterone cypionate medication. If someone else is administering your testosterone cypionate, it may be injected into your buttocks or shoulder muscle. Close monitoring will help determine if dosages need to be increased or lowered, or if the frequency of treatment necessitates change. Do not stop taking testosterone cypionate or alter the dosage without speaking with the doctor. If you miss a dosage, contact the hormone clinic to find out how to proceed. Also, contact your physician if you take too much testosterone to ensure you do not suffer from overdosing symptoms.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions for administration, dosing, and frequency of taking testosterone cypionate.

How to Get Testosterone Cypionate

Contact a hormone specialist to arrange for examination and testing of your hormone levels. Upon diagnosis of Low T, the hormone physician will prescribe a course of TRT to increase your testosterone levels. You will then receive a prescription for testosterone cypionate injections which will be filled by a licensed US pharmacy. Do not purchase testosterone cypionate from unregulated websites without a prescription. We cannot stress this fact enough. Once you receive testosterone cypionate, store it at room temperature. Also, keep it away from light and humidity – so do not place it in the bathroom. Make certain that all medications and supplies are out of reach of children and pets. All necessary supplies, needles, syringes, alcohol wipes, instructions, and a Sharps disposal container will accompany your testosterone cypionate medication. If you travel, keep your medication with you – do not place it in checked bags. Always keep it in the original container along with a copy of your prescription. Do not leave testosterone cypionate in a car or other hot or cold location. X-ray machines will not affect your medication. Kingsberg Medical staff can answer your questions and arrange for your blood test and examination. Contact us today for your free, confidential consultation.

Call today for your free, confidential consultation.

Brian Leeber