Testosterone Cypionate

• Increased muscle mass and strength with improved body composition
• Improved sexual function and desire
• Enhanced mood and overall quality of life
• Improved bone mineral density
• Increased energy levels
• Reduction in symptoms of depression
• Improved cognitive function
• Potential improvement in glucose homeostasis in males

• Male vs female hormone replacement therapy (HRT) strengths will vary.
• Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor testosterone levels, blood counts, liver function, and PSA in men.
• TRT can suppress natural testosterone production and lower fertility; discuss family planning with your provider.

Testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance and requires a valid DEA number from the prescribing provider for fulfillment.

Contraindications

• Known allergy to testosterone or any component of the formulation
• Men with breast or prostate cancer
• Individuals with serious heart, kidney, or liver disease

Potential Side Effects

• Increased blood pressure
• Acne
• Weight gain
• Decreased sperm count
• Blood clots (leg swelling, pain, redness)
• Liver toxicity (jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain)
• May cause skin irritation at the application site for creams
• Increased red blood cells (polycythemia)
• Overuse can lead to excessive testosterone levels potentially causing mood changes, hoarsening of voice, hirsutism and other hormonal imbalances

Warnings

• Potential risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy include stimulation of growth of prostate cancer and breast cancer, worsening symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), altered blood glucose control, increased bleeding risk, and exacerbated sleep apnea.
• Exogenous testosterone may suppress intratesticular testosterone via negative feedback loops adversely affecting sperm production and fertility in men and contribute to testicular atrophy

Testosterone Cypionate is suspended in oil for sustained release after injection. Once in the bloodstream, testosterone binds to androgen receptors, triggering physiological processes and exerting both androgenic (male characteristic expression) and anabolic effects. It plays an essential role in both men and women, working in conjunction with other sex hormones. Among its many potential functions are signaling red blood cell production, regulating puberty and fertility, increasing muscle and bone strength, enhancing libido, and supporting energy and overall vitality.

The long half-life (approximately 8 days) allows for less frequent dosing and more stable testosterone levels compared to shorter-acting forms.

Q. How does subcutaneous (under the skin) injection compare to intramuscular injection?

A. Testosterone has traditionally been injected intramuscularly. But the carrier MCT oil in this product is less viscous than the cottonseed oil used in commercial products, allowing the use of thinner needle gauge insulin syringes. Volumes less than 1mL can be injected subcutaneously to the sides of the abdomen and away from the belly button. Dexterity-wise, this is much easier than trying to inject oneself intramuscularly into the gluteus muscle. It is less painful and poses no risk of damage to the sciatic nerve. Whereas absorption of testosterone into circulation can be more erratic when administered into the muscle (depending on blood flow to an exercised muscle), subcutaneous administration gets into circulation via the lymphatic system and may afford steadier serum levels.

Q. Can women use testosterone?

A. Yes. Even though testosterone is often viewed as a male hormone, it is critical in both men and women, albeit in different amounts. With levels in women generally one-tenth of that in men, extra care must be taken when dosing in women. Though testosterone is sometimes given to menopausal women along with progesterone and estrogen, a decline in levels appears to be age related throughout the adult years rather than at onset of perimenopause. Low testosterone in women may manifest as symptoms of declining body composition, frailty, low libido, depression or anxiety disorders, low energy levels, pain with intercourse, and an increased risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI). Despite this, there is no FDA approved testosterone product for women! Multiple Strive testosterone medications can fulfill the unique dosing requirements of testosterone in women.

Q. What should I tell my doctor before starting?

A. Inform your doctor of all current medications, medical history (especially cancer, heart, liver, or kidney disease), and if you are planning to have children.

Q: How long does it take to notice results?

A: Some patients may notice benefit within a few weeks, but it might take several months for the full benefits to be observed.

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