Are you thinking about testosterone injections but unsure what to expect? From boosting energy to improving overall well-being, testosterone therapy can be life-changing for those managing low levels. But how long does it take to see results?
Let us break down how testosterone injections work, their benefits, and when you can start feeling the effects. We will also cover the signs of low testosterone and explore treatment options to help you make an informed decision.
What Is Testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testicles that plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of male characteristics and overall health. It helps regulate various functions in the body, including muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, mood, energy levels, and sexual health.
Testosterone also contributes to the growth and development of male reproductive tissues, such as the prostate and testicles.
Testosterone Levels in Men by Age
Testosterone levels in men naturally decrease with age. Below is an overview of testosterone levels by age (measured in nanograms per deciliter or ng/dL):
- 20–30 years old: 300–1,000 ng/dL (peak testosterone levels).
- 30–40 years old: A gradual decline begins, typically losing about 1% per year.
- 50 years and older: Levels decline further, often dipping below 300 ng/dL in some men.
Low testosterone is not always age-related. Other factors, such as illnesses, medications, or injuries, can cause significant drops in testosterone levels in younger men.
What Are Testosterone Injections
Testosterone injections are a medical treatment used to address low testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a vital role in male health, influencing muscle mass, bone density, mood, energy levels, and sexual health.
When testosterone levels in men drop too low, it can lead to health issues such as reduced energy, muscle loss, and other symptoms.
Testosterone doctors prescribe testosterone injections to provide controlled doses of the hormone. The injections are administered by a healthcare professional or self-injected after proper guidance.
Treatments may include testosterone cypionate (Depotestosterone) and testosterone enanthate (Xyosted).
Why Do Men Use Testosterone Injections
Men use testosterone injections primarily to treat low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism. This medical condition occurs when the body does not produce enough testosterone. Symptoms can differ depending on age and severity but often include:
- Fatigue and decreased energy levels.
- Loss of muscle mass.
- Increased body fat.
- Reduced bone density.
- Low libido or sexual dysfunction.
- Mood swings, irritability, or depression.
Testosterone injections help by replenishing the hormone to improve these issues over time.
How Long Do Testosterone Injections Take to Work
The timeline for seeing results from testosterone replacement therapy depends on the individual, the dosage, and the underlying health condition.
Week 3–6
Sexual interest typically begins to improve after 3 weeks, plateauing around 6 weeks. Effects on mood, such as reduced depressive symptoms, may start to appear within this period.
Week 6–12
Initial changes in fat mass, lean body mass, and muscle strength become noticeable. Quality of life improvements, including mood stabilization, continue to develop. Lipid changes also begin around this time, with maximum effects taking several months.
Month 3–6
Changes in erections and ejaculations may take up to 6 months to fully manifest. Erythropoiesis (the process by which red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow) effects become evident around 3 months, peaking between 9–12 months. Bone health improvements begin after 6 months and will continue over the years.
Month 6 and Beyond
Prostate-specific antigen and volume show a slight increase, plateauing around 12 months. Glycemic control starts to improve, with effects becoming more apparent between 3–12 months.
Fat mass reduction and muscle strength improvements stabilize by 6–12 months but can continue to progress marginally over the years. Long-term benefits to bone density and inflammation continue for at least 3 years.
Keep in mind that individual results can vary, so it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor progress.
Benefits of Testosterone Therapy
Men receiving testosterone injections often experience the following benefits:
- Improved energy and reduced fatigue
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Enhanced libido and sexual performance
- Better mood and reduced symptoms of depression or irritability
- Strengthened bone density
- Improved fat-to-muscle ratio
These benefits can significantly improve the quality of life for men managing low testosterone.
Testosterone Injections for Men in Phoenix, AZ
If you are looking for a urology clinic or fertility clinic for men in Phoenix, AZ, visit us here at Ironwood Urology where we specialize in testosterone therapy and other men’s health services.
We are led by Dr. Desiderio Avila Jr., a board-certified urologist specializing in treating low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, and male infertility. With years of experience, Dr. Avila offers personalized urology care tailored to your needs.
To learn more about testosterone injections or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (480) 961-2323 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
