The most common form is injections. When using this type, you use a needle to inject the testosterone directly into a large muscle (usually a thigh).
Some people (including myself) choose to use patches instead. The testosterone is absorbed through the skin. These patches are placed on the thighs, arms, or back. I personally put them on my thigh.
AdroGel is another form of testosterone. It works similarly to the patches (that is the same stuff that is in the patches). It is absorbed through the skin.
Pills are the last form used in hormone therapy. They work like any other pill you have ever taken in your life. You swallow them with water or soda or whatever drink you prefer (non-alcoholic). I am also pretty sure you are not supposed to take them on an empty stomach.
There are pros and cons to each form. You have to pick which one is right for you. I just want to provide you with enough information to make an informed decision.
Injections
- Cheapest option
- Allows for an even distribution of hormones
- No spikes and crashes
- Having to poke yourself with a needle every day
- Have to be very careful and clean with everything
Patches
- Expensive
- Allows for an even distribution of hormones
- No spikes and crashes
- Residual adhesive left behind
- No needles involved
Gel
- Expensive
- Messy
- Fairly even distribution of hormones
- Doctors recommend against it because of how messy it is because if it gets on someone else, they absorb it into their skin
- No needles involved
Pills
- Cheaper than patches and gels
- More expensive than injections
- Spikes and crashes
- Not a very even distribution of hormones
- Negative effects on the liver
- No needles involved
They also make pellets that are implanted under the skin and buccal systems, but they are expensive and I haven't heard much about them other than that. My doctor didn't even mention those options when I went to get my prescription started.
I'm sure you can tell from the fact I put "no needles involved" under everything that wasn't injections, that I have issues with needles. That is the main reason I decided to go with the patches. You just have to weigh all the pros and cons of everything and make your decision. And if one form doesn't work well for you, talk to your doctor about switching.
If you feel I have left anything out, please feel free to shoot me an email so I can update this. My email is TheAidenApocalypse@gmail.com. Thanks for reading.
