Scott Braverman FNP-C
Scott Braverman FNP-CCurious about testosterone pellets?
Do you wonder if testosterone pellets are just as good as traditional testosterone injections and creams, and if so, how to get started on them?
Then you’ve come to the right place.
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about testosterone pellets, including the different ways that they can transform the way you look and feel.
We also answer your most important questions, including:
- Are testosterone pellets better than injections and creams?
- How quickly do testosterone pellets start working?
- Am I a good candidate for testosterone replacement therapy?
…And much more!
Our team of experts has analyzed all of the latest research studies on testosterone pellets and TRT, so you know you are getting science-based information that you can trust.
We even reveal our #1 online TRT provider in the United States…
Now let’s get started!
Disclaimer: The contents of Testosterone.org are for informational and educational purposes. We do not provide legal advice. Likewise, we do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your physician prior to consuming any over-the-counter supplements, like a natural testosterone booster, and/or getting a prescription for a pharmaceutical medication. Your access to Testosterone.org is subject to our full disclaimer and terms of use.
Testosterone Pellets (Everything You MUST Know)
Are you suffering from low testosterone levels? Do you experience signs and symptoms of low T, including:
- Low energy
- Increased body fat
- Poor sexual health
- Decreased motivation
- Weak immune system
Don’t worry – you’re not alone. Research shows that more and more older AND younger men are suffering from low T than ever before [1-5]!
In fact, men’s testosterone levels are declining so fast, that researchers keep redefining what it means to have “normal testosterone levels” [6-9]. This is alarming, as low T in men is associated with decreased physical and mental health in men [10].
Don’t worry – there’s an easy solution: Testosterone Replacement Therapy.
By replacing your body’s natural testosterone production, you can enjoy all of the benefits of having an optimized hormonal profile, including a healthier physique, more energy, and improved sexual health.
There are many different types of testosterone medications that you can use, including testosterone injections, creams, and gels. However, one of the most popular options is undoubtedly testosterone pellets!
What Are Testosterone Pellets?
Testosterone pellets are one of the most commonly used testosterone medications for men suffering from low T (other popular options include testosterone injections and creams).
With testosterone pellets, an experienced TRT doctor will insert small pellets under the skin, typically in the hip area. The pellets slowly release testosterone into the body over a period of about 3 months.
This method of TRT has been studied extensively and has generally been found to be safe and effective.
- Studies show that testosterone pellets do generate a reliable increase in men’s testosterone levels, which is enough to reduce or eliminate their low T symptoms [11-12]
- The main drawback of testosterone pellets is they have to be surgically placed every 3 months. In addition, the pellets tend to release less testosterone over time, so you may experience declining testosterone levels as you get closer to the 3-month mark.
Testosterone Pellets vs. Other Delivery Methods
There are several different delivery methods for testosterone therapy, including injections, patches, gels, and pellets. While injections are the most common method, pellets offer a unique approach to testosterone therapy.
Here are some of the biggest advantages of testosterone pellets:
- Long-lasting effects: Testosterone pellets can provide consistent hormone levels for three to six months after insertion, making them a convenient option for many men.
- No daily applications: Unlike gels or creams, which require daily applications, testosterone pellets are inserted just a few times a year.
- Convenience: Once inserted, there is no need to worry about forgetting to take medication or apply gel or cream.
And here are some of the biggest disadvantages of testosterone pellets:
- Expensive: Testosterone pellets can be more expensive than other forms of testosterone therapy, such as injections or creams.
- Limited availability: Not all doctors are familiar with testosterone pellet therapy, so it may be harder to find a provider who offers this option.
- Possible complications: As with any medical procedure, there is always a risk of complications with testosterone pellet insertion, such as infection or pellet extrusion.
Pellet Protocols
Pellets are typically inserted every 3-6 months, depending on the patient’s needs and the type of pellet used.
The procedure is relatively simple and takes only a few minutes to perform. Research shows the surgical procedure to place the pellets is relatively safe and painless, so any man interested in this procedure has nothing to worry about [13-14].
Potential Side Effects
While testosterone pellets are generally safe and well-tolerated, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. These may include:
- Mood changes
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Breast enlargement
- Sleep apnea
- Increased red blood cell count
Fortunately, testosterone pellets are one of the safest forms of TRT. In fact, the latest studies show that testosterone pellets have relatively few side effects compared to more popular testosterone medications, including testosterone injections and creams [15, 16].
Of course, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of TRT with a qualified healthcare provider before starting treatment.
How To Get Started On Testosterone Therapy
By now you’re probably wondering how to get started with TRT… don’t worry – it’s a lot easier than it sounds!
All you have to do is follow these 5 steps, starting with contacting a reliable online TRT provider!
Step #1. Contact An Online TRT Clinic, And Fill Out Their Questionnaire
The first and MOST important step is to simply contact an online TRT provider. The truth is there are 2 main types of TRT clinics in the United States:
- Traditional in-person TRT clinics
- The newer online TRT clinics
Online TRT clinics are the new go-to option for anyone looking to get started on TRT as quickly as possible, and without having to spend a lot of money.
Online TRT clinics use Zoom and other telehealth technologies so you can talk to your TRT doctor from the comfort of your own home.
We really like Fountain TRT, as they are widely considered the #1 online TRT clinic in the world today, but there are many other clinics you can choose from.
Step #2. Talk To Your Doctor About Your Signs And Symptoms Of Low T
The next step in your TRT journey is to talk to your doctor about the different signs and symptoms that you are experiencing.
If you have clinically low testosterone levels, then you may be experiencing some or all of the following symptoms:
- Low energy
- Increased belly fat
- Decreased sex drive
- Low motivation
- “Brain fog”
It’s important to inform your doctor of all the different symptoms that you are experiencing, as this will help your doctor determine if you are actually suffering from low T, or something else.
Step #3. Perform A Comprehensive Blood Test At A Partnered Lab Facility
If your doctor agrees that you may be suffering from low T, then the next step is to perform a comprehensive blood test with one of their partnered lab facilities. After all, performing a blood test is the only way to truly measure your total testosterone levels.
Your doctor primarily be looking at three things from your blood test:
- Total testosterone
- Free testosterone
- Estradiol
If your total or free testosterone is low (or even in the “average” range), then you may be a good candidate for TRT.
Of course, your TRT doctor will also be looking at other tests to help you optimize your blood work and get the most out of your TRT protocol.
Step #4. Talk To Your Doctor About The Results Of Your Blood Test
After you complete your blood test, your online TRT doctor will review the results and schedule a time to go over them with you.
To review, here are the normal testosterone levels for men:
- Optimal: 800 – 1,200 ng / dl
- Average: 300 – 800 ng / dl
- Low: <300 ng / dl
If your total testosterone is below the 300 ng / dl threshold (or even in the 300 – 800 range), then TRT may be a good option for you.
Step #5. Start Using Your New Prescription Testosterone Medication
Now for the fun part! Your doctor will design your custom TRT protocol, and ship your testosterone medication straight to your own home.
Some of the different options for testosterone medications include:
- Injections
- Creams
- Patches
Whichever one you pick, your TRT doctor will be sure to show you how to use your medication for optimal results.
Benefits Of Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy is the #1 treatment option available anywhere in the world for men with low testosterone levels.
Therefore, it should come as no surprise that it has many benefits for older and younger men!
Research shows men who start TRT experience the following benefits [17-21]:
- Increased muscle mass
- Increased muscle strength
- Improved body composition
- Faster recovery from workouts
- Improved muscular endurance
- Improved sexual performance
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Improved mental health
- Improved energy levels
…The list goes on and on!
Let’s take a quick look at some of the most powerful benefits of TRT, including improvements to your sexual health and performance…
Increased Libido and Sexual Function
TRT can increase libido and sexual function in men with low testosterone levels, allowing them to enjoy a more fulfilling sex life.
No more feeling like you’re not up to the task or struggling with erectile dysfunction! With TRT, you can finally perform in the bedroom at the level your girlfriend expects!
Studies have shown that TRT can improve sexual desire, increase frequency of sexual activity, and reduce symptoms of erectile dysfunction in men with low testosterone levels.
Improved Bone Density
TRT can improve bone density in men with low testosterone levels, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. No more feeling like your bones are fragile or worrying about breaking a bone – TRT can help you feel like a sturdy and resilient superhero.
Studies have shown that TRT can increase bone mineral density and reduce bone turnover in men with low testosterone levels.
Reduced Body Fat
TRT can reduce body fat in men with low testosterone levels, helping them achieve a leaner and more muscular physique.
No more feeling like you’re carrying around excess body fat or struggling to lose weight! With TRT, you have all the tools you need to finally get the physique you want.
Studies have shown that TRT can decrease body fat percentage and increase lean muscle mass in men with low testosterone levels.
Improved Mood and Confidence
TRT can improve mood and confidence in men with low testosterone levels, reducing symptoms like depression and anxiety.
Studies have shown that TRT can improve mood, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and increase feelings of confidence and well-being in men with low testosterone levels.
Improved Skin Health
TRT can improve skin health in men with low testosterone levels, reducing symptoms like dryness and thinning. No more feeling like your skin is aging rapidly or struggling with acne – which is something that almost every man wants.
Studies have shown that TRT can increase skin thickness, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin hydration in men with low testosterone levels.
Side Effects Of Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone therapy is one of the safest medical treatments in the world today. It has decades of peer-reviewed studies backing its safety and efficacy.
However, there are a few short-term and long-term side effects that you should know about.
TRT Short Term Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- Increased aggression and irritability
- Acne or oily skin
- Swelling of the ankles (fluid retention)
- Difficulty with urination
- High blood cell counts
- Hair loss
- Mood swings
The most common short-term side effect of TRT is skin irritation. This is especially true if you are using testosterone injections.
Fortunately, there are ways to minimize skin irritation while using injections, and painless testosterone creams are another great option.
TRT Long Term Side Effects
- Shrinkage of the testicles
- Swelling or tenderness of breasts
- Cardiovascular disease
- Strokes and heart attacks
- Polycythemia
- Worsening of urinary symptoms
- Prostate cancer
Long-term side effects are extremely rare while on TRT.
However, it is still possible to experience side effects like shrinking testicles, polycythemia, or even prostate cancer.
This is why it’s SO important to work with an online TRT doctor – they will monitor your bloodwork every step of the way to make sure you never experience these problems.
Testosterone Injections, Creams, Gels, And More
If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, then testosterone replacement therapy may be the answer. There are several types of testosterone medications available, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
Here are the most popular options to consider:
Option #1. Testosterone Injections
Testosterone injections are considered the gold standard of testosterone replacement therapy for men. They have been studied for decades and are known to produce reliable results with minimal side effects.
If you’re considering testosterone injections, here’s how you can perform them at home:
- First, wash your hands to prevent infection
- Draw up a dose of testosterone according to your TRT protocol
- Aspirate the syringe to prevent air bubbles from forming
- Wipe the injection site with a sterile alcohol pad
- Insert the needle and depress the plunger to inject the dose
- Remove the needle from the injection site
It’s as simple as that. However, some men may not be comfortable with performing injections multiple times a week, and in that case, testosterone creams or gels may be a better option.
Option #2. Testosterone Creams/Gels
Testosterone creams and gels are also effective options for testosterone replacement therapy. Most online TRT providers prefer testosterone creams over gels, as they tend to produce better results with fewer side effects.
Additionally, testosterone creams are painless, making them a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin.
The main disadvantage of testosterone creams is that they need to be applied one to two times per day to achieve optimal results.
Option #3. Testosterone Patches
Testosterone patches are another option for testosterone replacement therapy, although they are not as popular as injections or creams.
You simply apply a testosterone patch to your skin in the morning, and it will slowly release testosterone throughout the day. The following morning, you replace the old patch with a new one.
Option #4. Testosterone Implants (Pellets)
Testosterone pellets are small beads that are surgically implanted under the skin. They’re about the size of a grain of rice and release testosterone into the bloodstream for up to three months.
Testosterone pellets are a convenient option for those who don’t want to apply creams or perform injections regularly. However, they may produce more significant swings in blood testosterone levels than other options, so they aren’t used as frequently.
Ultimately, the best testosterone replacement therapy option for you depends on your specific circumstances and preferences.
Consult with your doctor or an online TRT provider to discuss which option may be right for you.
Personalized TRT: Dosage, Frequency, Additional Medications
You may be wondering how much testosterone you are supposed to take each week while on TRT.
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Here are some guidelines that you can follow:
How Much Testosterone Should I Take Each Week?
Most TRT doctors agree that a dose of 100 – 150 mg of testosterone per week is ideal for first-time patients [25]. 100 – 150 mg of testosterone per week is more than enough to optimize most men’s total testosterone levels.
Doses higher than 200 mg of testosterone per week are normally not recommended, as they increase the risk for significant side effects [26-27].
How Often Do I Need To Take My Testosterone Medication?
Most men using testosterone injections take their medication 1-3 times per week. Smaller, more frequent testosterone injections are often helpful for minimizing side effects.
If you are using a prescription testosterone cream, then it is recommended that you take the medication 1-2 times daily.
Do I Need To Take Any Other Medications With TRT?
No, you do not need to take any other medications while on TRT. Your doctor may prescribe you additional medications such as an anti-estrogenic drug (to keep your estrogen levels in the normal range) or HCG (to help with fertility) [28-29].
However, these are only done on a case-by-case basis, and are usually not necessary.
What To Expect On Testosterone Therapy
Starting testosterone replacement therapy can have significant effects on a man’s body and overall health.
Here are some things you can expect to experience within the first week, month, 3 months, 6 months, and year of starting TRT:
Within The First Week
- Improved mood and sense of well-being
- Increased energy levels
- Better quality of sleep
- Increased sex drive and libido
Most men experience a dramatic improvement in their mood, energy levels, and overall mental health within the first week of starting TRT.
In fact, the latest studies show that testosterone replacement therapy improved mood, energy, and sexual function in hypogonadal men as early as the first week of treatment [30].
Within The First Month
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Increased body hair growth
- Deeper voice
- Possible reduction in body fat
- Increased red blood cell count
You will start to notice some serious changes in your physical appearance, energy, and physique within the first moth of treatment.
For example, a recent study found that men who received testosterone replacement therapy saw significant improvements in muscle strength and body composition within the first month of treatment [31].
Within The First 3 Months
- Further improvements in muscle mass and strength
- Increased bone density
- Improved cognitive function
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved insulin sensitivity
After 3 months you can expect continued changes in your overall physical and mental health – and for the better!
A recent study found that testosterone replacement therapy increased muscle mass, bone density, and insulin sensitivity in hypogonadal men within the first 3 months of treatment [32].
Within The First 6 Months
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Improved lipid profiles (reduced LDL cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol)
- Improved sexual function
- Improved physical performance
By the six-month mark most men start to experience serious long-term health benefits, including significant changes in their cardiovascular health, metabolic health, and sexual health / performance.
Research has shown that 6 months of testosterone replacement therapy can improve cardiovascular health, sexual function, and physical performance in hypogonadal men within the first 6 months of treatment [33].
Within The First Year
- Increased bone density
- Improved cognitive function
- Reduced risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes
- Improved quality of life
The improvements you experience at the 1-year mark should be very similar to the benefits you experience at the 6-month mark.
One study found that testosterone replacement therapy improved bone density, cognitive function, and quality of life in hypogonadal men over the course of one year [34].
It’s important to note that everyone’s experience with testosterone replacement therapy may vary, and some changes may take longer to occur than others.
Consult with your healthcare provider to determine what to expect based on your individual circumstances.
Is Testosterone Therapy Legal?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a legal medical treatment that can help men who are experiencing low testosterone levels.
While it may seem daunting to navigate the legal waters of TRT, it’s actually a straightforward process when done correctly.
Here are some things you need to know about the legality of TRT:
- TRT is only legal when prescribed by a licensed medical doctor. This means that if you’re looking to boost your testosterone levels with TRT, you’ll need to find a doctor who specializes in hormone replacement therapy.
- Online TRT clinics make the process of getting testosterone therapy easier than ever. With the rise of telemedicine, men can now consult with licensed TRT doctors online from the comfort of their own homes. This means you can skip the waiting room and get started on your TRT journey faster than ever before.
- It’s important to note that TRT is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone’s body is different, and your doctor will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
- TRT is legal when used for medical purposes, but it is not legal for use in sports or other competitive activities. This is because TRT can give athletes an unfair advantage and is considered a performance-enhancing drug.
- When done correctly and under the guidance of a licensed medical professional, TRT is a safe and effective treatment for low testosterone levels. However, like any medical treatment, there are risks and potential side effects to consider. Your doctor will discuss these with you before starting your TRT journey.
In summary, TRT is a legal medical treatment that can help men with low testosterone levels.
With the help of a licensed TRT doctor, you can safely and effectively boost your testosterone levels and improve your overall health and well-being.
So if you’re experiencing symptoms of low T, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted TRT provider and get started on your journey to a happier, healthier you!
How Much Does TRT Actually Cost?
When it comes to TRT, the cost can vary depending on several factors.
Here are some of the key factors that can affect how much you’ll pay:
- Type of medication: There are several different types of testosterone medication available, including injections, gels, and patches. The cost can vary depending on which type of medication you choose.
- Dosage: The amount of medication you need will depend on your individual needs and goals. The higher the dosage, the more expensive the medication is likely to be.
- Mode of administration: Different modes of administration can also impact the cost of TRT. For example, injections may be more expensive than gels or patches.
- Insurance coverage: Depending on your insurance plan, some or all of the cost of TRT may be covered. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered and what isn’t.
- Doctor and laboratory fees: In addition to the cost of the medication itself, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of doctor’s visits and laboratory tests. These fees can add up over time.
Overall, TRT usually costs about $200-300 per month, depending on your individual needs and circumstances. If you’re interested in TRT but concerned about the cost, it’s worth exploring your options and speaking with a healthcare provider to find a plan that works for you.
Of course, working with a reliable online TRT provider like Fountain TRT can be a great way to save some extra cash!
How To Raise Testosterone Levels Naturally
Are you interested in raising your testosterone levels naturally, aka without using testosterone therapy?
If so, then you’re in luck!
Research shows there are several reliable ways to naturally boost your body’s natural testosterone production:
- Exercise Regularly
- Get Plenty Of Sleep
- Reduce Stress
- Eat A Balanced Diet
- Testosterone Boosters
Let’s take a closer look at each of these strategies:
Exercise Regularly
Exercise has been shown to increase testosterone levels, especially resistance training! Consider incorporating the following into your routine:
- Weight lifting or bodyweight exercises (push-ups, squats, lunges, etc.)
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Cardiovascular exercise (running, biking, swimming, etc.)
Studies have shown that resistance training can increase testosterone levels by up to 20%, while HIIT can increase testosterone by up to 25% [35, 36].
Get Plenty of Sleep
Sleep plays a crucial role in hormone production, including testosterone. In fact, studies have shown that getting enough sleep can help maintain healthy testosterone levels. [37, 38].
Consider the following tips for improving your sleep quality:
- Aim for 7-8 hours of high-quality sleep per night
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
- Create a sleep-conducive environment (cool, dark, quiet)
- Avoid electronics before bed
- Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption
Research shows that even 1 night of low-quality sleep has the potential to destroy your body’s natural testosterone production, so take this tip seriously!
Reduce Stress
Chronic stress has been shown to lower testosterone levels.
On the flip side, studies have shown that reducing stress can help increase testosterone levels, so finding ways to manage stress can help maintain healthy levels [39, 40].
Here are a few stress-reduction strategies that you can try:
- Mindfulness meditation
- Yoga or stretching
- Deep breathing exercises
- Regular massages
We recommend experimenting until you find the right combination of stress-reduction strategies that work for you.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet is essential for maintaining healthy testosterone levels. Consider the following tips:
- Eat plenty of protein (meat, fish, eggs, etc.)
- Consume healthy fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil, etc.)
- Limit sugar and processed foods
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
Studies have shown that consuming a healthy diet can help maintain healthy testosterone levels [41, 42].
Remember, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your lifestyle or taking any supplements. They can help guide you and ensure that your testosterone levels stay within a healthy range.
Testosterone Boosters
Another great option is to use testosterone boosters to raise your natural testosterone production.
Unfortunately, we cannot recommend most testosterone boosters, as they have one or more of the following problems:
- They have little to no research backing them [43]
- They may have dangerous long-term side effects [44]
- They do a very poor job of actually raising your testosterone levels [45]
Fortunately, our team was able to identify one natural testosterone booster that actually works – Maximus Tribe.
Maximus Tribe is a new type of testosterone boosting medication. This prescription medication uses a key ingredient – enclomiphene – to literally “trick” your body into producing more testosterone. Studies show that enclomiphene can increase men’s natural testosterone production by as much as 200 – 300 points [46-68]!
This is enough to have a MASSIVE impact on how you look and feel.
If you are ready to get started with Maximus Tribe, then here is where you can learn more.
Testosterone Frequently Asked Questions
What is Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone therapy is a medical treatment that involves the use of synthetic testosterone to increase low levels of testosterone in the body. It is usually administered through injections, gels, patches, or pellets.
Who Can Benefit From Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone therapy is recommended for men who have low levels of testosterone in their body, which can result in symptoms like decreased libido, fatigue, depression, and reduced muscle mass.
It may also be prescribed to men with hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce enough testosterone.
What Are The Risks Associated With Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone therapy has some risks associated with it, such as an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and prostate cancer.
However, these risks are relatively rare and can be managed with proper monitoring and treatment.
Is Testosterone Therapy Safe?
Testosterone therapy is generally safe when it is prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.
However, like any medical treatment, it carries some risks, and it is important to discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor before starting treatment.
What Are The Side Effects of Testosterone Therapy?
The side effects of testosterone therapy can include acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement, and mood swings.
However, these side effects are usually mild and can be managed with proper treatment and monitoring.
How Long Does Testosterone Therapy Take to Work?
The length of time it takes for testosterone therapy to work varies from person to person.
Some men may start to see improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks, while others may take several months to experience the full benefits.
How Much Does Testosterone Therapy Cost?
The cost of testosterone therapy varies depending on several factors, such as the type of medication, dosage, mode of administration, insurance coverage, doctor and laboratory fees.
On average, it can cost anywhere from $200 to $300 per month.
Verdict – Are Testosterone Pellets Legit?
Testosterone pellets are one of the most common types of testosterone-boosting mediations used by men on TRT.
Overall they are not as popular as testosterone injections and creams, as there is less research backing their safety and efficacy. Many men also find them to be inconvenient, as they need to perform a surgical procedure once every 3 months to replace their old pellets.
However, if you are looking for a viable alternative to traditional testosterone injections and creams, then the pellets can be a great choice.
We recommend working with a reliable online TRT provider like Fountain TRT, as they have several different types of testosterone boosting medications that you can choose from.
So what are you waiting for?
Contact an online TRT provider today and get ready to feel like a whole new man!
