Gels vs. Injections: What’s the Best Way to Treat Low Testosterone?

At Regenerate Men’s Health, we understand that every man’s journey with testosterone replacement therapy is unique. When considering how to optimize your testosterone levels, two of the most common and effective options are testosterone gels and injections. Both methods are available at our clinic and are tailored to suit your individual needs and health goals.

●Testosterone Injections:
Injections are typically administered every one to four weeks. They deliver a rapid and significant increase in testosterone levels, often making them a preferred choice for men with very low testosterone who need reliable and immediate results. However, injections can also cause fluctuations—some men notice a surge in energy and mood after the shot, followed by a dip before the next dose. Our experienced providers closely monitor your response and can adjust your dosing schedule to minimize these peaks and troughs.

●Testosterone Gels:
Testosterone gels are applied to the skin once daily, providing a steady release of hormone throughout the day. This consistency can help avoid the highs and lows associated with injections, leading to stable mood, energy, and sexual health. While gels are very effective for many men, their absorption can vary depending on individual skin type and daily application habits. Our providers will guide you on proper application and precautions, such as preventing accidental transfer to others.

Both testosterone gels and injections are effective ways to restore healthy testosterone levels, and the decision often comes down to your lifestyle, medical history, and personal preferences. At Regenerate Men’s Health, your treatment plan is always personalized.

Testosterone gels (such as AndroGel and Testim) are a popular option for many men, offering convenient daily dosing. However, these gels are typically the more expensive choice, with average monthly costs ranging from $200 to $500 without insurance. Generic versions can help lower costs, but gels generally remain a pricier option due to higher manufacturing expenses.

For many patients, testosterone injections—such as testosterone cypionate or enanthate—offer a more cost-effective alternative. When using generic formulations and self-administering at home, monthly costs usually fall between $30 and $100. If you opt to have your injections administered in our clinic or prefer brand-name products, the price may be slightly higher.

Several factors can influence your overall cost, including your specific dosage, the pharmacy you use, your insurance coverage, and your location. Our team will work with you to find the most affordable and effective option, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care without unnecessary financial burden.

When considering therapies such as testosterone replacement, it’s important to understand that insurance companies often treat gel and injection prescriptions differently, which can impact your out-of-pocket costs.

Testosterone gels, commonly prescribed for topical or transdermal therapy, are often covered under your insurance plan’s pharmacy benefits. Coverage for these gels depends on the specific medication, whether it’s a brand-name or generic, and your plan’s formulary. Your copay or coinsurance for gels will vary based on these factors.

Testosterone injections can be administered in two ways:
●Self-administered: Some patients are prescribed injectable testosterone to use at home, and these are typically covered under pharmacy benefits, similar to gels. However, some plans may require prior authorization or have higher copays for injectable medications.

●In-clinic administration: Many patients receive their injections in our clinic, administered by our experienced medical team. These in-office treatments are usually billed under your insurance plan’s medical benefits. Your coverage may include office visit copays and administration fees, which can differ from your pharmacy benefits.

At Regenerate Men’s Health, we want to ensure you get the most benefit and safest results from your testosterone therapy. If you’ve been prescribed testosterone gel, it’s important to apply it once daily—this helps maintain steady hormone levels and supports your overall wellbeing.

For best results, apply the gel at the same time each morning, right after showering or bathing, to clean, dry skin. Common application sites include the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen, but always follow the specific instructions given to you by our provider, as different products may have different guidelines.

Do not apply the gel more than once a day unless our provider directs you otherwise. Overuse can lead to excessively high testosterone levels and increase the potential for side effects. If you accidentally miss a dose, apply it when you remember—unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled application. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your routine.

The most commonly used injectable forms—testosterone enanthate and testosterone cypionate—are typically administered every one to two weeks. However, we customize your injection schedule based on your testosterone levels, how you feel, and how your body metabolizes the hormone. Some patients may benefit from more frequent dosing, while others may require less frequent injections.

For those who are candidates, we also offer longer-acting options such as testosterone undecanoate, which is usually administered every 10 to 14 weeks after an initial loading phase. Throughout your treatment, our providers will closely monitor your hormone levels with regular blood tests and adjust your dosing schedule to ensure optimal results and minimize any potential side effects.

You could not change the frequency or dosage of your testosterone injections on your own. Regular follow-up appointments are a vital part of your care to ensure your therapy remains safe and effective. Always follow the injection schedule recommended by your provider, and contact us promptly if you experience any side effects or have questions about your treatment.

Consult Dr. Alexander Isazade to know if gel or injections are good for you.

If you are considering options such as testosterone gels or injections to address men’s health concerns, it’s essential to seek expert guidance to determine the most suitable treatment for you. At Regenerate Men’s Health, Dr. Alexander Isazade specializes in men’s hormone optimization and will provide you with personalized recommendations based on your medical history, current symptoms, and individual health goals.

During your consultation at Regenerate Men’s Health, Dr. Isazade will thoroughly assess your situation, explain the benefits and potential risks of both gels and injections, and work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. By scheduling a visit with our team, you can gain clarity on which therapy is safest and most effective for your unique circumstances, ensuring you achieve optimal results for your health and well-being. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1776 Ygnacio Valley Rd , Suite 108, Walnut Creek, CA 94598. We serve patients from Walnut Creek CA, Concord CA, Pleasant Hill CA, Alamo CA, Danville CA, Lafayette CA, Orinda CA, and surrounding areas.