What do testosterone pills cost?
Testosterone is a hormone that both men and women produce, though men tend to produce it in much higher quantities. When testosterone levels drop too low, it can cause a host of health problems. In these cases, people may consider testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, and may experience mood changes, although the connection between anger and testosterone is complex.
The cost of TRT varies widely depending on the type of treatment, the dosage, and your insurance coverage. This article walks you through the costs of various TRT methods, with a special emphasis on the price of oral testosterone pills.
TRT comes in a variety of forms, including injections, pellets, gels and creams, patches, and medications that adhere to your cheek. Oral testosterone pills have their own unique cost considerations and bioavailability issues that are worth exploring.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
Testosterone Replacement Therapy, or TRT, is a treatment designed to bump up testosterone levels in people with low T. Doctors prescribe TRT primarily for hypogonadism, but it’s also part of gender-affirming hormone therapy.
Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, is the most common reason people get TRT. Symptoms of low T include feeling tired all the time, losing your sex drive, and muscle loss, which Metformin can also impact.
TRT can also be used to help transgender men develop more male characteristics and transgender women develop more female characteristics as part of gender-affirming care.
Types of testosterone replacement therapy
If your doctor diagnoses you with low testosterone, they may recommend testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT. There are several ways to administer TRT.
Forms of TRT include:
- injections
- pellets
- pills
- gels and creams
- skin patches
- buccal systems (medication that dissolves between your cheek and gum)
Injectable testosterone is a common treatment since it can be relatively affordable. Oral testosterone isn’t as common due to issues with bioavailability, meaning how much of the drug actually makes it into your bloodstream.
Focus on oral testosterone pills
Oral testosterone pills, as the name suggests, are swallowed. The goal is to raise your testosterone levels.
However, oral testosterone has lower bioavailability compared to other forms of TRT. In addition, there are concerns about how oral testosterone may affect your liver.
Cost of testosterone pills
The cost of testosterone pills can vary quite a bit depending on several factors.
Factors influencing the price
Here are some of the things that can affect how much you’ll pay for testosterone pills:
- Brand name vs. generic: Brand-name drugs are typically more expensive than generic versions, even when they contain the same active ingredients.
- Dosage and frequency: The dosage your doctor prescribes, and how often you need to take the medication, will influence the overall monthly or annual cost.
- Pharmacy and location: Prices can fluctuate between different pharmacies and also vary based on where you live.
Specific cost examples (without insurance)
Without insurance, oral testosterone pills can be pretty pricey, often costing anywhere from $1,000 to over $2,000 per month.
Compared to other forms of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), oral pills tend to be one of the more expensive options. Injectable testosterone, like testosterone cypionate, is often more affordable. Gels, creams, patches, pellets, and buccal systems (tablets that dissolve in your cheek) all have their own price points as well.
Reasons for high cost
So, why are oral testosterone pills so expensive?
One reason is bioavailability. Oral testosterone has historically been difficult for the body to absorb effectively. To combat this, manufacturers have developed special processes to improve bioavailability, which can drive up the cost.
Another factor is brand-name dominance. For some oral testosterone formulations, there aren’t many (or any) generic options available, which means the brand-name manufacturers can keep prices high.
Cost comparison: Other TRT methods
Testosterone pills aren’t the only form of testosterone replacement therapy. Let’s compare costs for other TRT options.
Testosterone injections
Injectable testosterone, such as testosterone cypionate, can cost around $105 a month without insurance if you’re getting injections every two weeks. Other forms, such as Testosterone Enanthate, are also used. That works out to about $1,200 a year.
Intramuscular injections are often considered the most reliable and affordable way to administer testosterone.
Testosterone gels and creams
Testosterone gels and creams like Androgel and Natesto can cost you anywhere from $400 to over $1,000 a month if you don’t have insurance. Natesto nasal gel, for example, can cost around $1,000 a month without insurance, while Androgel can cost around $400.
The brand name, dosage, and how often you need to apply the gel or cream all influence the price.
Testosterone patches
Testosterone patches like Androderm can cost around $800 a month without insurance.
Testosterone pellets
Testosterone pellets can cost around $1,200 for 10 pellets (75 mg) without insurance.
Testosterone buccal systems
Buccal systems like Striant, which are tablets that adhere to your gums, can cost around $180 a month without insurance.
Insurance coverage for testosterone replacement therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can be expensive, but insurance may help.
General coverage policies
Insurance companies often cover TRT when it’s medically necessary, but what one company considers “necessary” may not be the same as another. Many companies will not cover TRT for low testosterone when it’s believed to be a result of older age. In general, insurance companies require a diagnosis of hypogonadism or low testosterone levels that can be proven through blood tests. Patients also usually have to demonstrate symptoms and may have to see a specialist.
Requirements for coverage
Typically, insurance companies want to see two abnormally low testosterone lab results. They also may want to see documentation of symptoms such as fatigue, decreased sex drive, or muscle loss.
Finally, some insurance companies want the patient to see an endocrinologist or urologist.
Medicare and Medicaid coverage
Medicare and Medicaid may cover TRT, but the requirements vary. Talk to your insurance company to learn more.
Tips for navigating insurance coverage
- Contact your insurance company to learn about your plan’s specific requirements.
- Work with your doctor to document why TRT is medically necessary.
- Explore generic medications or other TRT methods.
Factors to Consider Before Starting TRT
Thinking about starting testosterone replacement therapy? Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Medical Advice: Always talk to a qualified doctor before starting TRT. They can assess your health and determine if it’s right for you.
- Potential Side Effects: Discuss the possible side effects of TRT with your doctor.
- Dosage and Monitoring: Regular blood tests are a must. They help determine the right dosage and track your progress.
- Long-Term Commitment: TRT is often a long-term deal, so be prepared for a lasting commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a prescription for testosterone pills?
Generally, yes. Legitimate testosterone pills that contain actual testosterone require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. This is because testosterone is a controlled substance due to its potential side effects and risks. Over-the-counter products marketed as “testosterone boosters” often don’t contain actual testosterone.
Are testosterone pills covered by insurance?
Whether or not testosterone pills are covered by your insurance depends on your specific plan and the reason for the prescription. If prescribed for a medically diagnosed condition like hypogonadism, coverage is more likely. Check with your insurance provider for details regarding your policy’s coverage.
Do testosterone boosters really work?
The effectiveness of testosterone boosters is a mixed bag. Many over-the-counter boosters contain ingredients that have limited scientific evidence to support their claims of significantly raising testosterone levels. Some may offer a slight boost, but results vary greatly. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using these products.
How do I check my testosterone level?
The only way to accurately check your testosterone level is through a blood test ordered by a healthcare provider. They will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How much do testosterone tablets cost?
The cost of testosterone tablets varies depending on the brand, dosage, and your insurance coverage (if applicable). Without insurance, a month’s supply can range from \$50 to several hundred dollars. It’s best to check with your pharmacy for specific pricing.
Wrapping Up
The cost of testosterone pills varies a lot, but they’re often more expensive than other forms of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
Before you start TRT, it’s important to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional. They can help you understand whether TRT is right for you and, if so, which method is best. They can also help you understand how your insurance plan may help with the costs.
The price of different TRT options is important, but it shouldn’t be the only thing you consider. You’ll also want to think about how well each method works, how easy it is to use, and what side effects it may cause.