Men opt for testosterone injections to restore the levels of testosterone hormones in the body. Healthcare providers recommend this treatment for those who are likely to develop male hypogonadism, which is a condition characterized by the body’s inability to synthesize the testosterone hormone naturally.
Those who have low levels of testosterone for a persistently longer period tend to develop several health issues. This risk can be reduced by balancing the hormonal levels with treatments like testosterone injections.
This type of treatment involves risk, which is why, it is given by a trained and qualified healthcare professional in the clinic. The therapy is performed by injecting a small amount of liquefied testosterone solution directly into the muscle.
Side effects of testosterone injections
Just like any other medication, testosterone injections can also trigger some potential side effects. The side effects of testosterone injections might not be experienced by all though. Besides, the intensity and types of side effects vary from one individual to another.
Given below are several potential side effects that can be triggered by this therapy:
Injection site reactions
After the therapy, some people may develop pain, inflammation, bruising, redness, and swelling at the site where the testosterone injections were given.
Acne
The injections can lead to excessive production of oils in the skin, leading to increased acne breakouts. The acne might worsen in those who have pre-existing acne.
Breast enlargement
The body can naturally cause the synthesis of estrogen from the testosterone hormone. Testosterone is a precursor to estrogen hormone. The conversion happens because of the action of an enzyme called aromatase. An increase in the levels of estrogen can cause breast growth.
Fluid retention
The therapy can cause fluid retention in the body. This can give rise to inflammation and swelling in the limbs and foot.
Testicular shrinkage
Since testicles produce testosterone naturally, injecting this hormone will lead to the shrinking of testicles. As the hormone is introduced into the body through external means, the action of testosterone synthesis by the testicles gets suppressed.
As a result, the testicles shrink. However, the testicles can regain their original size after the discontinuation of this therapy.
Fluctuations in sex drive
This treatment might impact the sex drive or libido. It might either increase or decrease. The person may experience changes in their sexual desire and their overall sexual performance.
Mood swings
A testosterone boost might give rise to sudden mood changes, leading to irritability, aggression, and frustration.
Sleep disorders
After the treatment, the person might experience difficulties with their sleep. Their sleep pattern may get disrupted, which can lead to insomnia and sleeplessness.
Increased risk of cardiovascular events
According to some studies, this treatment might potentiate one’s risk of developing chronic health issues like cardiovascular disorders, heart attack, and, stroke. Older individuals with here-existing health conditions are more prone to such events after taking testosterone injections.
A steep increase in red blood cell count
The rise in the production of red blood cells can be a potential side effect of testosterone injections. This can enhance the risk of clot formation.
Hair loss
In some men, this treatment might lead to male pattern baldness, which causes sudden loss of hair.
How is testosterone solution injected?
This treatment is given in the healthcare provider’s clinic. It is performed by a certified professional. They inject the liquefied solution of testosterone into the upper arm, buttocks, and thighs. The solution is directly injected right into the muscle.
Since the treatment is given by a qualified medical professional, it is generally safe. However, there are still some possibilities of risks. It is not appropriate for all, especially for those having some chronic health illnesses.
Risks involved
Apart from the risk of side effects, another risk is that the solution might get injected into the fat tissues lying beneath the skin surface, very close to the blood vessels, rather than the muscles. There is a high chance that the solution might enter the bloodstream.
If it enters the bloodstream, the solution will get absorbed gradually. In case this happens, there will be no use in taking injections. This will trigger some undesirable side effects.
Therefore, it is necessary to do some research before you consider getting this treatment. And make sure you get the injections only from a certified medical professional. The professional is trained in this and they will perform this therapy with utter care.
Post injections, you might initially suffer from some side effects. This happens as it takes some time for the body to become used to the solution. Once your body adjusts, the side effects subside.
