Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Methyltestosterone (Methitest) and testosterone gel (AndroGel) are both used to treat low testosterone in males, but they have some key differences. Methyltestosterone is taken orally, while testosterone gel is applied topically to the skin. Methyltestosterone can also be used to treat breast cancer in females, whereas testosterone gel is only approved for low testosterone in males. Methyltestosterone has a higher risk of causing serious liver damage, while testosterone gel has a higher risk of accidental transfer to others through skin contact. Methyltestosterone and testosterone gel are both available in a generic forms, making them less expensive. Both medications carry risks of misuse, dependency, and serious side effects like heart attack and stroke, but testosterone gel is noted to have a lower risk of heart conditions compared to methyltestosterone.
Methyltestosterone (Methitest)
Testosterone gel
Methyltestosterone (Methitest)
Testosterone gel
Summary of Methyltestosterone vs. Androgel
Summary for Testosterone replacement
Prescription only
Methyltestosterone (Methitest) is a pill form of testosterone used for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in males with low testosterone levels. It's also used to treat females with breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. The medication comes as a tablet or capsule and is typically taken by mouth once a day. Your dosage will depend on your condition and how you respond to treatment. Possible side effects include nausea, acne, and headaches.
Summary for Testosterone replacement
Prescription only
Testosterone gel is used to treat low testosterone in adult males. It's convenient to use because you only have to apply it to your skin once a day. But compared to other forms of testosterone, there's a higher risk of exposing others to the medication through skin-to-skin contact.