Testosterone Pellets

Testosterone Pellets: Benefits and Side Effects

Dr. Mujahid Jammel

Dr. Mujahid Jammel

MD(AM)BUMS, DAF, CHEF, PGDYT
December 24th, 2024

Testosterone Pellets is one form of testosterone replacement therapy where the small grain sized pellet is implanted under the skin. These testosterone pellets increase the level of testosterone in your body.

The condition called male hypogonadism is increasing in the modern days and the solution to it is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). There are various ways doctors use to replace testosterone in the body like gel, injection or pellet.

In this particular article we have discussed in detail about the procedure, benefits and side effects of testosterone pellets.   

What are Testosterone Pellets?

Testosterone pellets are one way of increasing the testosterone levels in the body with the help of pellets containing crystalized testosterone placed under the skin near the hip in the size of 3 millimeters (mm).

These pellets placed under the skin slowly release testosterone into the body. The pellets get dissolved in 2- 6 months and need not to be removed. Mostly the testosterone pellets are replaced once in three months to maintain the even testosterone level.

Benefits of Testosterone Pellets

Testosterone pellets offer several advantages when compared with other forms of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). They are,

1. Long-Lasting Effects

Testosterone pellets provide a steady release of testosterone for 3 to 6 months. Which is a very long lasting one when compared with daily gels or weekly injections.  This consistency helps avoid the hormonal fluctuations that can occur with other methods, reducing mood swings and maintaining even energy levels.

2. Convenience

Once testosterone pellets have been implanted they do not need daily upkeep like gel or injection. As you need to remember to apply a gel or schedule frequent doctor visits for injections. 

3. Improved Symptoms of Hypogonadism

The symptoms of hypogonadism improve. So you could see increased energy, better libido, enhanced muscle mass, reduced fat accumulation, Improved mood and cognitive function.

4. Consistent Hormone Levels

Testosterone pellets release the hormone gradually into the bloodstream and so it maintains more stable testosterone levels compared to injections or gels. This also ensures not spiking the testosterone levels to the peak and avoiding complications.

5. Minimal Skin Irritation

In case of gels it may cause skin irritations or require careful application to avoid transferring to others. Testosterone pellets pose no such risks once implanted.

6. Discreet and Hidden

The small size and subdermal placement make the pellets virtually invisible. And needed to be removed as the pellets placed under the skin dissolve completely.

Side Effects of Testosterone Pellets

While testosterone pellets are generally safe, they can have side effects. Understanding these potential issues helps ensure you make an informed decision.

1. Implantation Site Reactions

Some individuals may experience redness, swelling, or bruising at the implantation site. In rare cases like not taking care well after the procedure could cause infection or pellet extrusion can occur.

2. Hormonal Side Effects

  • Acne: Increased testosterone levels may trigger acne or oily skin.
  • Hair Loss: Those genetically predisposed to male-pattern baldness may notice accelerated hair thinning.
  • Mood Changes: Some individuals may experience irritability or mood swings due to hormonal shifts.

3. Risk of Overproduction

If the dosage is too high, it can lead to excessive testosterone levels, resulting in side effects such as increased red blood cell count (polycythemia) or sleep apnea.

4. Rare Systemic Effects

Though uncommon, some people report headaches, joint pain, or fluid retention. These side effects often resolve as the body adjusts to the therapy.

5. Long-Term Risks

Prolonged high testosterone levels may potentially increase the risk of heart disease or prostate issues. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.

Dosage of Testosterone Pellets

Choosing the correct dosage is needed as the more and low dosage could cause complications. Consult with your healthcare provider to know the even dosage. Never miss any dose of pellets after the one set gets dissolved.  

How Testosterone Pellets Are Placed

The doctors take time only to find the right dosage of testosterone needed for you and the implant of testosterone pellets are performed in a clinic in just 10 minutes.

  • Doctors clean and sterilize the implantation site i.e. usually your upper hip or buttock area. 
  • Local anesthetic is injected to numb the area to make the procedure painless.
  • The doctor inserts the pellets just beneath the skin using a specialized medical instrument called trocar.
  • Then nearly 10 -12 pellets are placed and the procedure is redone when the pellets dissolve.

Post Procedure care and Follow up

Post procedure care and follow up with doctors appointment after the implantation of testosterone pellets is unavoidable as it has a lot of risks and side effects associated with it.

  • The site is covered with a bandage to protect it during healing.
  • Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few days.
  • Keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection.

Takeaway

Testosterone pellets are the slowest and most recommended method by the medical professionals for increasing the levels of testosterone. The dosage needed for you is very important as the over dosage of testosterone could cause health complications. Thus consult a male sexual health clinic to choose the right dosage and implantation of testosterone pallets. 

Contact Fortius health clinic for testosterone replacement therapy and also for other male sexual health problems.

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