Testosterone Enanthate is a commonly prescribed form of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), designed to support patients with low or absent levels of natural testosterone. With its slow-release properties and established clinical indications, it remains a valuable option for addressing hormone deficiencies and certain medical conditions. This guide provides an overview of what Testosterone Enanthate is, how it works, approved uses, administration details, potential side effects, and important considerations for care.
What Is Testosterone Enanthate?
Testosterone Enanthate is an esterified form of testosterone that provides a slow release and extended duration of action. It is widely used in testosterone replacement therapy and has distinct differences from other formulations, such as Testosterone Cypionate.
Testosterone enanthate is approved to be injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously, whereas testosterone cypionate is only approved for intramuscular injection. Testosterone enanthate is compounded with grapeseed oil, while testosterone cypionate is made with cottonseed oil.
How Does Testosterone Enanthate Work In The Body?
Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone synthesized by cells in the testes, ovaries, and the adrenal cortex. It is responsible for the normal growth and development of the male sex organs and the maintenance of secondary sex characteristics3.
Testosterone Enanthate is an esterified variant of testosterone that allows for a slow-release rate and an extended duration of action4. It is commonly used as testosterone replacement therapy for patients with a deficiency or absence of endogenous testosterone, although there are other approved indications.
Administration And Usage Guidelines
Testosterone Enanthate is injected either intramuscularly or subcutaneously, depending on the indication.
Approval And Clinical Indication
Testosterone Enanthate is commercially available as an intramuscular injection and a subcutaneous injection. The intramuscular injection has FDA-approved indications for the treatment of hypogonadism in adult males, the treatment of constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) in males, and for palliative treatment of breast cancer that is inoperable in women. The subcutaneous injection has an FDA-approved indication for the treatment of hypogonadism in adult males.
Dosing Frequency And Injection Schedule
Intramuscular route of administration:
- Hypogonadism in adult males: 50-200 mg IM every 2-4 weeks1
- CDGP in adolescent males: 50-200 mg IM every 2-4 weeks for a limited period, or 40-50 mg/m2/dose IM monthly for 6 months1
- Palliative treatment of breast cancer that is inoperable in women: 200-400 mg IM once every 2-4 weeks1
Subcutaneous Route of Administration:
Hypogonadism in adult males:
- Initially, 75 mg SQ in the abdominal region once weekly1
- Re-evaluate following 6 weeks of dosing
- Decrease dose by 25 mg if total testosterone trough concentration is 650 ng/dL or greater1
- Increase dose by 25 mg if total testosterone trough concentration is less than 350 ng/dL1
Formulation and Mode of Administration
- Strength and form: Testosterone Enanthate 200mg/ml injection solution
- Vial size: 10ml
- Route of administration: IM or SQ
Storage and Beyond Use Date
Testosterone Enanthate should be stored at room temperature (between 68°F to 77°F). It will have a beyond-use date of approximately 6 weeks after the patient receives it and should be used within 28 days after the first vial puncture.
Potential Side Effects of Testosterone Enanthate
You may experience pain, bruising, bleeding, redness, or a hard lump where the medicine was injected 2. Other common side effects include acne, increased facial or body hair growth, breast enlargement, headache, anxiety, mood changes, increased blood pressure, abnormal liver function tests, high red blood cell counts, and increased PSA (prostate-specific antigen)2.
Insurance Coverage and Cost of Testosterone Enanthate
Compounded Testosterone Enanthate is generally not covered by insurance plans.
Comprehensive Patient Support and Pharmaceutical Services at MediVera
The experienced pharmacists at MediVera Compounding Pharmacy™ are available to address inquiries about Testosterone Enanthate and other pharmaceutical compounds with both healthcare providers and their teams. Whether you need clarification on proper dosing protocols, storage requirements, delivery options, or other pharmaceutical concerns, our knowledgeable staff is here to assist.
Through our exclusive Impressed Advantage program, MediVera Compounding Pharmacy™ delivers exceptional service at every touchpoint. Once a prescription enters our system, our pharmacy professionals proactively contact patients to arrange convenient pickup or delivery. During this consultation, a licensed pharmacist reviews proper medication usage and answers any patient questions, ensuring your patients receive thorough guidance and prompt, precise service.
Whether you’re initiating Testosterone Enanthate therapy for patients or considering other treatment options, our dedicated team stands ready to provide guidance. We also facilitate seamless pharmacy transfers for patients switching from other providers. Contact us to discuss how we can support your patients’ wellness goals and pharmaceutical needs.
