Low testosterone (or “low T”) can have a real impact on a man’s quality of life. It can drain your energy, dampen your mood, shrink your muscles, and mess with your sex life.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a common treatment for low testosterone. TRT can be delivered in a few different ways, including gels, patches, and injections.
Kyzatrex is an oral form of TRT, and this article will compare Kyzatrex vs injection, as well as other forms of TRT, to help you decide if it’s the right treatment for you.
Understanding Low Testosterone and TRT
What is Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism)?
Hypogonadism is a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone. There are many possible causes, from problems with the testicles themselves to issues with the parts of the brain that control hormone production.
Low testosterone can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Mood changes
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Overview
Testosterone Replacement Therapy, or TRT, aims to bring testosterone levels back to a normal, healthy range, but other options like Enclomiphene Citrate exist. There are several ways to deliver TRT, including injections, topical gels, patches, and even oral medications.
Oral Testosterone Replacement Therapy: Kyzatrex and Jatenzo
Oral testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) offers an alternative to injections, gels, and other methods. Newer oral formulations like Kyzatrex and Jatenzo are designed to bypass the liver, which reduces the risk of liver toxicity, a concern with older oral testosterone options.
Kyzatrex vs. Jatenzo: A Comparison
Both Kyzatrex and Jatenzo are oral testosterone undecanoate (TU) products prescribed for hypogonadism (low testosterone). However, there are some key differences.
In a 90-day study, Kyzatrex demonstrated a 96% success rate in restoring normal testosterone levels. Cost is another big factor: Kyzatrex is significantly more affordable than Jatenzo. Jatenzo’s price fluctuates based on the strength, ranging from roughly $1,200 to $2,400. Kyzatrex, on the other hand, is consistently priced around $159 for a supply of 120 capsules.
Dosage is also different. Kyzatrex is available in 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg strengths, while Jatenzo comes in 158 mg, 198 mg, and 237 mg strengths.
Finally, Jatenzo has been linked to a higher incidence of side effects, including diarrhea, heartburn, burping, peripheral edema (swelling in the extremities), nausea, headache, enlarged prostate, and elevated blood hematocrit (red blood cell count), compared to Kyzatrex.
Kyzatrex vs. Injectable Testosterone
So, how do Kyzatrex and injectable testosterone stack up against each other?
Efficacy: Oral vs. Injectable
One of the biggest differences is how quickly you might see results. Injectable TRT often provides a more significant initial boost in testosterone levels. For example, one study showed injectable TRT increased levels from 72 ± 29 ng/dL to 767 ± 182 ng/dL in just 10 weeks. In comparison, oral TRT increased levels from 260±130 ng/dL to 400±180 ng/dL over three months.
Keep in mind that the goal of either method is to bring your testosterone levels into a normal range, which is generally considered to be between 300 and 1000 ng/dL. Kyzatrex boasts a 96% success rate in normalizing testosterone levels, which is definitely something to consider.
Impact on Symptoms
When it comes to building muscle, injectable TRT might have a slight edge. A study showed that weekly 100 mg testosterone injections led to a 5.0 ± 0.7 kg increase in lean body mass after 10 weeks. Oral TRT at 160 mg daily only produced a 1.04 ± 0.07 kg increase in lean body mass.
However, both methods can improve other symptoms of low testosterone, such as low libido, fatigue, and a general lack of well-being, but for specific cases of erectile dysfunction, treatments such as Edex 40 mcg Injection may be relevant.
How Quickly They Work
Oral TRT tends to peak in your system about 4-5 hours after you take a dose, returning to baseline within 12 hours. Testosterone cypionate, a common injectable form, has a half-life of approximately eight days. Peak testosterone levels with a 200 mg dose of testosterone cypionate can reach 1,112 ± 297 ng/dL around days 4-5.
Safety Information and Side Effects
As with any medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and risks associated with both Kyzatrex and injectable testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
Common Side Effects
Oral TRT, including Kyzatrex, can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, and increased blood pressure.
Injectable TRT side effects may include pain and bruising at the injection site, but it’s important to differentiate these from other peptide injections. There’s also the potential for long-term infertility, though that’s a risk with oral TRT as well.
Severe Risks and Contraindications
Neither Kyzatrex nor Jatenzo (another oral TRT) should be used by individuals with suspected or known prostate cancer, pregnant women, or those with low testosterone that’s not caused by a physical or genetic problem.
Both products carry similar, though rare, severe risks, including worsening benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clots), a higher risk of sleep apnea, fertility changes, and the potential for medication overuse.
Jatenzo has also been associated with worsening mood, including depression and suicidal thoughts.
Importance of Monitoring
If you’re taking oral TRT, it’s important to have your blood pressure checked regularly.
Regardless of whether you’re using oral or injectable TRT, it’s crucial to monitor for potential side effects and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
How Oral Testosterone Works
Kyzatrex and Jatenzo are both oral medications that contain testosterone undecanoate (TU). TU is a version of testosterone that’s designed to be taken by mouth. These medications increase your testosterone levels by bypassing the liver.
Typically, when you take a medication by mouth, it has to be processed by the liver before it enters your bloodstream. This is called “first-pass liver metabolism.” TU is absorbed into your lymphatic system, so it doesn’t have to go through this process. As a result, more testosterone reaches your bloodstream.
Dosage and Administration
Kyzatrex comes in 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg tablets. Jatenzo is available in 158 mg, 198 mg, and 237 mg capsules.
No matter which form of TRT you and your doctor decide is best, it’s vital to follow their dosage and administration instructions exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Kyzatrex cost per month?
The monthly cost of Kyzatrex can vary depending on your insurance coverage and pharmacy. It’s best to check with your insurance provider and local pharmacies for the most accurate pricing information. You might also be able to find cost savings programs or manufacturer coupons.
What are the mental side effects of testosterone injections?
Testosterone injections, like other forms of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), can potentially cause mental side effects in some individuals. These may include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, or even aggression. It’s crucial to discuss any changes in your mood or mental health with your doctor.
Is Kyzatrex a controlled substance?
Yes, Kyzatrex, like other testosterone medications, is classified as a controlled substance. This is because testosterone has the potential for misuse and abuse. It’s important to use Kyzatrex only as prescribed by your doctor.
Which is better, testosterone gel or injections?
The best form of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) – gel or injections – depends on the individual. Gels are applied topically and offer a more steady release of testosterone, while injections are administered directly into the muscle and can lead to fluctuations in testosterone levels. Factors such as convenience, cost, and individual preferences play a role in the decision.
What is more powerful than testosterone?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is often considered more potent than testosterone. DHT is an androgen derived from testosterone and binds more strongly to androgen receptors. However, “more powerful” can be subjective and depends on the specific effect being considered.
In Summary
Kyzatrex, Jatenzo, and injectable testosterone all work to boost your testosterone levels, but they have different:
- costs
- side effects
- effectiveness
- administration routes
The best choice for you depends on your needs and your health history. Talk with a qualified healthcare provider about the best way to get the testosterone you need.
Newer oral forms of testosterone like Kyzatrex may offer some advantages, such as less risk of liver damage and a lower price point.