Not all testosterone treatments are alike. If testosterone deficiency is diagnosed, you want to choose a treatment method that’s right for you. Several testosterone replacement therapies are available. The delivery method can play an important role in providing the results you need. Options for testosterone replacement therapy include the following:

• Buccal testosterone: This testosterone supplement consists of a tablet applied to the gum surface above one of the incisors. It does not dissolve and must be replaced after 12 hours to maintain good testosterone levels.
• Intramuscular injections: For this method, you visit the doctor’s office every 2 to 3 weeks for an injection into your muscle. Between injections, testosterone levels may decline and some patients may experience a return of their symptoms, affecting mood, energy, and libido.
• Oral medications: Taken as a pill, this method may require multiple daily doses to maintain steady testosterone levels. High doses have been associated with liver toxicity and are not recommended for testosterone deficiency.
• Skin gel: This method delivers testosterone through a gel, which you apply on your skin. After application, wait 5–6 hours before bathing or swimming for optimal absorption. It’s important to be careful that the gel does not rub onto other people, as this may pose a health risk for women and children.
• Testosterone patches: Patches eliminate the need for injections and frequent visits to the physician. The skin patch is applied to the upper arms, thighs, abdomen, or back areas of your body. Testosterone delivery is controlled, continuous, and there’s minimal risk of the hormone rubbing off onto other people. Testosterone patches may cause skin reaction at the application site.
• Testosterone pellets: A long-acting pellet can be implanted under the skin of the buttock via surgical incision. Pellets may extrude spontaneously.

While any of these options can be prescribed for testosterone deficiency, you and your doctor should discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Then you can choose the one that matches your needs and lifestyle.