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Treatment For Low Testosterone?

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Posted on Wed, 30 Oct 2013
Question: For Low testosterone......
Which would you recommend(least expensive) if not on a medical plan and paying out of pocket?

TestIM? Axiron? Androgel? Other?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (38 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Injections are the least expensive

Detailed Answer:
Testosterone injections have been around the longest and are generic, so to speak. Obviously an actual prescription is needed as it is a controlled substance. They are effective and typically administered every 1-3 weeks, most commonly twice a month. They may result in 'peak and trough' levels ie blood levels peaking midway between the doses and reaching lower levels just before the next shot is due.

The gels are brand name and expensive. They are effective too and often provide steady levels of testosterone in the blood stream. Regardless of which one you choose from the names above, they are all approved gel forms of testosterone. Patches are available too but again are expensive.

An endocrinologist is best equipped to manage testosterone related matters
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (54 minutes later)
Not sure if I got good advise on the cost of a testosterone gel or other topical ointments.

Can you help me further? FYI - Shots are not of consideration here because of costs.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (3 days later)
Brief Answer:
Gels are expensive

Detailed Answer:
I see you are writing from US. I am very familiar with US pricing

Gels and patches are the most expensive, upto several hundred dollars a month out of pocket. These need a prescription too.

The injections cost significantly less compared to gels and patches, perhaps 50$ a month or so
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (11 hours later)
Can a GP administer a Testosterone Shot or does a specialize need to?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (16 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Yes

Detailed Answer:
GP can administer it too
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Shehzad Topiwala

Endocrinologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 1663 Questions

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Treatment For Low Testosterone?

Brief Answer:
Injections are the least expensive

Detailed Answer:
Testosterone injections have been around the longest and are generic, so to speak. Obviously an actual prescription is needed as it is a controlled substance. They are effective and typically administered every 1-3 weeks, most commonly twice a month. They may result in 'peak and trough' levels ie blood levels peaking midway between the doses and reaching lower levels just before the next shot is due.

The gels are brand name and expensive. They are effective too and often provide steady levels of testosterone in the blood stream. Regardless of which one you choose from the names above, they are all approved gel forms of testosterone. Patches are available too but again are expensive.

An endocrinologist is best equipped to manage testosterone related matters