Testosterone Pellets

Available by prescription only, testosterone pellets are used to increase testosterone levels in men. These pellets are inserted just beneath the skin and slowly release testosterone as they dissolve. It takes approximately three to six months for each pellet to completely dissolve. Although most people tolerate this medicine well, side effects are possible and may include headaches, acne, and tender breasts.

Testosterone Pellet Information

What Are Testosterone Pellets?

The testosterone pellet (Testopel^®) is a prescription medication approved to treat low testosterone levels due to a variety of causes in men. The medication comes as a tiny pellet that is inserted just beneath the skin every three to four months. As the pellet dissolves, it releases testosterone into the body.

The testosterone pellet is a Schedule III controlled substance. This means it has the potential for abuse. As a Schedule III controlled substance, there are strict laws and regulations controlling its sale and use.

(Click What Are Testosterone Pellets Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, testosterone pellets may cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the pellets will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate them quite well.

If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.

Common side effects of testosterone pellets include but are not limited to:

Acne
Headaches
Enlarged and tender breasts
Redness, itching, swelling, or pain at the injection site.

(Click Testosterone Pellet Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)

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