For research and educational purposes only. Not intended for human consumption.
TRT
Extensively Studied- •TRAVERSE trial: CV safety confirmed (5,200+ participants)
- •FDA-approved for male hypogonadism
- •Subcutaneous administration protocols validated
Testosterone Replacement Therapy | Testosterone Cypionate & Enanthate
Overview
What is TRT?
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is FDA-approved for treating male hypogonadism (low testosterone) caused by testicular failure or hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction. Testosterone cypionate and enanthate are the most commonly prescribed injectable esters, providing sustained testosterone levels with weekly or bi-weekly dosing. The TRAVERSE trial (5,200+ participants) confirmed cardiovascular safety in high-risk men when used as indicated. Banned by WADA
Key Benefits
Most effective TRT delivery method with predictable testosterone levels. Significantly improves energy, libido, mood, muscle mass, and bone density in hypogonadal men. Intramuscular or subcutaneous administration provides sustained release over 7-8 days.
Mechanism of Action
Testosterone esters (cypionate/enanthate) are dissolved in oil and injected, where they slowly release testosterone as the ester bond is cleaved. Cypionate has ~8-day half-life, enanthate ~7 days. Testosterone then binds to androgen receptors, modulating gene expression for anabolic and androgenic effects.
Molecular Information
Pharmacokinetics
Research Indications
Testosterone Normalization
Restores serum testosterone to physiological range (400-700 ng/dL) in hypogonadal men with documented deficiency.
Symptom Resolution
Improves low testosterone symptoms: fatigue, low libido, erectile dysfunction, depressed mood, and cognitive fog.
Fertility Considerations
Exogenous testosterone suppresses sperm production. hCG co-administration may preserve fertility during TRT.
Research Protocols
Disclaimer: TRT is typically a lifelong commitment for diagnosed hypogonadism. Exogenous testosterone suppresses natural production via HPG axis feedback. Discontinuation requires medical supervision and may involve PCT protocols. Requires diagnosis of hypogonadism with documented low testosterone (<300 ng/dL) plus symptoms.
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard TRT | 100-200mg | Weekly or split 2x/week | IM or SubQ |
| Conservative Start | 75-100mg | Weekly | IM or SubQ |
| Stable Levels (Split) | 50-100mg | Every 3.5 days | SubQ preferred |
| With hCG (Fertility) | 100-150mg + 250-500 IU hCG | T weekly, hCG 2-3x/week | IM/SubQ + SubQ |
Timing: Inject on consistent days each week. For twice-weekly dosing, space injections 3.5 days apart (e.g., Monday AM/Thursday PM). Draw blood for labs at trough (before next injection).
Peptide Interactions
How to Reconstitute
Important: Always use bacteriostatic water (BAC). Sterile technique is essential.
No reconstitution needed - testosterone comes as ready-to-use oil solution
Warm vial briefly in hands if oil is thick
Clean vial stopper with alcohol swab
Draw air equal to dose volume, inject into vial
Invert vial and draw prescribed dose slowly
Clean injection site, insert needle, aspirate briefly, inject slowly
Dispose of needles in sharps container
Dosing Calculator
Calculate your injection volume with visual dosing guide
To obtain 250 mcg from this solution:
Draw 0.10 mL=10 units
(1 mL = 100 units on any insulin syringe)
Draw to this mark for 250 mcg
This calculator is for research purposes only. Always verify calculations and consult protocols.
Quality Indicators
Pharmaceutical Grade Product
Use only FDA-approved testosterone from licensed pharmacies. Brand names: Depo-Testosterone (cypionate), Delatestryl (enanthate).
Clear Oil Solution
Testosterone should be clear, yellowish oil. No particles, cloudiness, or crystallization.
Compounded Testosterone
Compounded products may vary in quality. Use only from licensed compounding pharmacies with COA.
Underground Lab (UGL) Products
UGL testosterone has inconsistent dosing (25-400% of labeled amount), contamination risks.
What to Expect
- •Week 1-3: Initial adjustment, possible mood fluctuations as levels stabilize
- •Week 3-6: Improved energy, mood, mental clarity, and libido typically begin
- •Month 2-3: Enhanced recovery from exercise, improved sleep quality
- •Month 3-6: Body composition changes become noticeable (muscle gain, fat loss)
- •Month 6-12: Bone density improvements, sustained metabolic benefits
- •Ongoing: Continued benefits require continued treatment
Side Effects & Safety
Side Effects
- •Requires diagnosis of hypogonadism with documented low testosterone (<300 ng/dL)
- •Regular monitoring required: testosterone, hematocrit, PSA, estradiol every 3-6 months
- •Hematocrit >54% requires intervention (dose reduction, therapeutic phlebotomy)
- •Not for use by women, children, or men with prostate/breast cancer
- •May cause testicular atrophy and infertility - discuss hCG if fertility desired
- •FDA black box warning: possible increased risk of heart attack and stroke
When to Stop
- •Prostate cancer diagnosis
- •Breast cancer diagnosis
- •Hematocrit persistently >54%
- •Severe cardiovascular events
- •As directed by healthcare provider
References
3 StudiesTRAVERSE Cardiovascular Safety Trial (2023)
Human | 5,246 men | 45-80 years | Mean 33 months | FDA-mandated cardiovascular safety study
Landmark randomized trial in hypogonadal men with cardiovascular disease or high CV risk. Found TRT noninferior to placebo for major adverse cardiac events, establishing cardiovascular safety when used as indicated.
Testosterone Trials (TTrials) - Body Composition (2017)
Human | 788 men ≥65 years | 1 year | Multiple endpoints | NIH-funded comprehensive study
Comprehensive study showing testosterone gel increased lean mass, improved sexual function, mood, and walking distance in older hypogonadal men.
Meta-Analysis: Muscular Responses to TRT (2018)
31 RCTs analyzed | Various formulations | Fat-free mass and strength outcomes
Intramuscular TRT associated with 5.7% increase in fat-free mass and 10-13% improvement in muscle strength.
Quick Start Guide
Research Disclaimer
TRT is sold for laboratory research purposes only and is not intended for human or animal consumption. The information provided on this page is compiled from published research, veterinary studies, and anecdotal reports for educational purposes. This content does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Any research involving TRT must comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. BioInfinity Lab makes no claims regarding the safety or efficacy of TRT for any purpose. Consult qualified professionals for any research applications.