What Is Testosterone?

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and an anabolic steroid. When prescribed as a medication, exogenous Testosterone replaces or supplements the body's natural production in men diagnosed with hypogonadism — a condition where the body does not produce enough Testosterone on its own. It is FDA-approved for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in adult males with primary hypogonadism (congenital or acquired) and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. It is also used off-label for female-to-male gender-affirming hormone therapy, low libido in postmenopausal women, and muscle wasting associated with chronic illness. Testosterone is available in multiple formulations including injections, topical gels, patches, nasal gels, oral capsules, subcutaneous pellets, and autoinjectors.

How does Testosterone work?

Testosterone works by binding to androgen receptors in target tissues throughout the body. Once bound, it promotes and maintains male secondary sexual characteristics, supports muscle mass and bone density, stimulates red blood cell production, and influences libido and mood. In men with low Testosterone levels, exogenous replacement restores hormone concentrations to the normal physiological range, alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, low sex drive, depression, and loss of muscle mass. The route of administration affects how quickly and consistently Testosterone is absorbed — injections provide periodic peaks and troughs, while gels and patches aim for more steady daily levels.

What doses are available for Testosterone?

• Testosterone Cypionate injection: 100 mg/mL and 200 mg/mL (1 mL and 10 mL vials)
• Testosterone Enanthate injection: 200 mg/mL
• Subcutaneous autoinjector (Xyosted): 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg
• Topical gel (AndroGel 1%, 1.62%; Testim 1%; Fortesta 2%; Vogelxo 1%)
• Transdermal patch (Androderm): 2 mg/24hr, 4 mg/24hr
• Nasal gel (Natesto): 5.5 mg/pump
• Oral capsules (Jatenzo): 158 mg, 198 mg, 237 mg; (Tlando): 112.5 mg; (Kyzatrex): 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg
• Subcutaneous pellet (Testopel): 75 mg
• Long-acting IM injection (Aveed): 750 mg/3 mL

How hard is it to find Testosterone in stock?

Testosterone scores a 55 out of 100 on our findability scale, meaning it can be moderately difficult to locate in stock. Testosterone Cypionate injection has experienced intermittent shortages since 2023 due to increased demand from expanded TRT prescribing, limited manufacturing capacity, and DEA production quotas on Schedule III controlled substances. As of late 2025, Pfizer's Depo-Testosterone 200 mg/mL 1 mL vials are available in limited supply with weekly releases, while the 100 mg/mL 10 mL vials have been on back order. Generic manufacturers including Cipla, Hikma, and Sun Pharma have also had intermittent supply issues. Topical gels and oral formulations are generally easier to find in stock than injectable forms.

Who Can Prescribe Testosterone?

Testosterone can be prescribed by a variety of healthcare providers. Endocrinologists and urologists are the most common specialists for Testosterone therapy. However, primary care physicians, family medicine doctors, and internal medicine providers also frequently prescribe it. Men's health clinics and sports medicine doctors may also manage TRT. Additionally, telehealth TRT clinics such as Hims, Ro, and Hone have become popular options for obtaining Testosterone prescriptions remotely. Because Testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance, all prescribers must have a valid DEA registration.

Is Testosterone a controlled substance?

Yes, Testosterone is classified as a Schedule III (CIII) controlled substance by the DEA. This means it has accepted medical uses but also carries a potential for abuse and dependence. As a controlled substance, Testosterone prescriptions are subject to stricter regulations including DEA production quotas, limits on refills, and requirements for in-person or verified telehealth evaluations. The Schedule III classification also contributes to supply constraints, as the DEA sets annual manufacturing limits that can lag behind rising demand.

Common Side Effects of Testosterone

• Acne or oily skin
• Injection site pain or irritation
• Increased red blood cell count (polycythemia)
• Edema and fluid retention
• Gynecomastia (breast tissue enlargement)
• Headache
• Mood changes or irritability
• Increased PSA levels
• Application site reactions with gels and patches
• Hair loss or increased body hair growth
• Changes in libido
• Worsening of sleep apnea

Alternative Medications to Testosterone

• Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid) — Used off-label to stimulate the body's own Testosterone production in men. A key advantage is that it preserves fertility, unlike exogenous Testosterone.
• Enclomiphene — A selective estrogen receptor modulator being used off-label and in development to boost Testosterone while preserving spermatogenesis.
• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) — Stimulates the testes to produce Testosterone naturally. Often used alongside TRT or as an alternative when fertility preservation is important.
• DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) — An over-the-counter supplement that serves as a precursor to Testosterone. Evidence for effectiveness is limited, but some men try it for mild symptoms of low T.

Drug Interactions with Testosterone

• Warfarin and anticoagulants — Testosterone may enhance anticoagulant effects and increase bleeding risk. INR should be monitored closely.
• Insulin and oral diabetes medications — Testosterone may lower blood glucose levels, potentially requiring dose adjustments for diabetic medications.
• Corticosteroids — Concurrent use may increase the risk of fluid retention and edema.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) — May increase Testosterone levels when using oral formulations metabolized via CYP3A.
• Hepatotoxic drugs — May add liver stress, especially with oral Testosterone formulations.

Final Thoughts on Testosterone

Testosterone remains one of the most widely prescribed hormone therapies in the United States, but intermittent shortages of injectable formulations have made it harder to find since 2023. If your pharmacy is out of stock, Medfinder can help you locate Testosterone Cypionate, AndroGel, and other formulations at pharmacies near you. Generic injectable Testosterone is the most affordable option at $30–$110 without insurance, and coupon cards from GoodRx or SingleCare can bring prices as low as $14–$30. Talk to your doctor about which formulation is right for you, and consider alternative delivery methods if injections are unavailable in your area.