Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is an important treatment for hypogonadism (low testosterone). Low T can lead to a host of symptoms that negatively affect your quality of life. For many years, the main form of TRT was injections.
Now, there are other options, including oral medications like Jatenzo. Many people find oral testosterone replacement to be more convenient than injections.
So, what are the differences between Jatenzo and injection-based TRT? This article will compare Jatenzo and testosterone injections in terms of dosage, effectiveness, side effects, and other important factors to consider when choosing a TRT method.
Understanding Low Testosterone and Treatment Options
Testosterone is an important hormone, and when levels are too low, a man may experience:
- fatigue
- decreased sex drive
- erectile dysfunction
- loss of muscle mass
- increased body fat
- mood changes
If you have symptoms of low testosterone, your doctor may recommend treatment to bring your hormone levels back to a healthy range, and consulting with doctors for men’s problems can provide further guidance.
Treatment Options: Injections and Oral Medications
One of the most common ways to treat low testosterone is with injections. These injections, such as testosterone cypionate, are typically given every 2–4 weeks, though it’s important to stay informed about issues such as the Hikma testosterone cypionate recall.
Another option is Jatenzo, which is an oral medication containing testosterone undecanoate (TU). Unlike injections, Jatenzo is taken by mouth.
Jatenzo: Dosage, Administration, and Mechanism of Action
Let’s get into the details of how Jatenzo is typically prescribed and how it works in your body.
Jatenzo Dosage Information
Jatenzo comes in several strengths: 158 mg, 198 mg, and 237 mg capsules.
The usual starting dose is 237 mg twice a day. However, your doctor will likely adjust your dosage based on how your body responds to the medication and what your testosterone levels look like in follow-up blood tests.
The lowest possible dose is 158 mg twice daily, while the highest is 396 mg twice daily.
Administration Guidelines
It’s super important to take Jatenzo with food. This helps your body absorb the medication properly.
The recommendation is to take one capsule in the morning and another in the evening. Try to take it at the same time each day.
What if you miss a dose? Take it as soon as you remember. But, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, just skip the missed one. Don’t double up or take extra capsules to make up for what you missed.
How Jatenzo Works
Jatenzo contains testosterone undecanoate (TU). It boosts your testosterone levels using a method that avoids going through the liver. This can be an advantage for some men.
Testosterone Injections: Types, Dosage, and Administration
Testosterone injections are a common treatment for low testosterone, and several types are available. Two of the most common are testosterone cypionate and testosterone enanthate. The main difference between them lies in how long they last in your system.
Typically, a doctor will prescribe 50 mg to 400 mg of testosterone cypionate, to be injected every 2 to 4 weeks. Testosterone injections are administered into a muscle (intramuscularly), such as in your upper thigh.
The frequency of these injections will depend on the specific type of testosterone prescribed, as well as your individual needs and how your body responds to the medication. Your doctor will determine the best dosage and schedule for you.
Jatenzo vs. Injections: A Comparative Analysis
When it comes to testosterone replacement therapy, both Jatenzo and injections have their pros and cons. Let’s break down some key differences.
Convenience and Administration
One of the biggest advantages of Jatenzo is its convenience. It’s an oral medication, meaning you just swallow a pill. This is a lot easier than injections, which require either a visit to the doctor’s office or learning how to self-inject. Let’s be honest, not everyone is comfortable with needles!
Dosage Flexibility and Adjustment
Jatenzo offers more flexibility in terms of dosage. Your doctor can easily adjust the number of capsules you take based on how your body responds to the medication. With injections, dosage adjustments are typically less frequent, which might not be ideal if your testosterone levels fluctuate.
Cost Considerations
The cost of Jatenzo can vary depending on the dosage you need. A supply of 120 capsules can range from around $1,200 to $2,400. That’s definitely something to consider.
Testosterone injections can be less expensive, but you also have to factor in the cost of regular doctor’s visits for the injections, or the supplies you’ll need if you’re injecting yourself. So, it’s important to weigh all the costs involved when making your decision.
Side Effects and Risks
Like all medications, both Jatenzo and testosterone injections come with potential side effects and risks. It’s important to discuss these with your doctor to determine which treatment option is best for you.
Jatenzo Side Effects
Some of the more common side effects reported with Jatenzo include:
- Increased blood pressure
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Worsening mood (this was specifically reported in clinical studies)
Testosterone Injection Side Effects
Common side effects associated with testosterone injections can include:
- Pain at the injection site
- Mood swings
- Acne
Shared Risks
Both Jatenzo and testosterone injections carry some similar, though rare, but serious risks. These include:
- Worsening of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Blood clots
- Sleep apnea
- Changes in fertility
It’s crucial to monitor your blood pressure regularly while using either of these medications. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding potential side effects or risks before starting treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance cover testosterone pellets?
Whether insurance covers testosterone pellets varies widely depending on your specific insurance plan, its formulary, and the medical necessity determined by your doctor. It’s best to check directly with your insurance provider for coverage details and potential out-of-pocket costs.
Do you feel testosterone right after injection?
Some people report feeling a slight boost in energy or mood shortly after a testosterone injection, but the more significant effects, like increased muscle mass or libido, typically take several weeks or months to become noticeable.
Which is better, testosterone patch or injections?
The “better” option depends on individual preferences and needs. Patches offer a steady dose and avoid injections, but can cause skin irritation. Injections often provide more stable testosterone levels and may be more cost-effective, but require periodic needle sticks.
Which form of testosterone is most effective?
There’s no single “most effective” form, as effectiveness can depend on how well an individual absorbs and responds to each method. Factors like convenience, cost, and side effects also play a role. Jatenzo, injections, gels, patches, and pellets can all be effective when appropriately prescribed and monitored.
What is the most effective way to take testosterone?
The most effective way to take testosterone is the method that best achieves stable and optimal testosterone levels for the individual, with minimal side effects and good adherence. This requires a thorough discussion with your doctor to determine the most suitable option for your specific circumstances.
Putting It All Together
Jatenzo and testosterone injections both deliver testosterone to men with low T. Jatenzo is more convenient, since it’s an oral medication taken twice per day. However, some people report a higher rate of side effects with Jatenzo.
It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional about your symptoms and get an accurate diagnosis before considering testosterone replacement therapy. TRT should always be used under medical supervision.
If you’re considering TRT, you and your doctor should weigh all the factors, including:
- cost
- convenience
- potential side effects
Together, you can decide which treatment plan is right for you.