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Compare Methyltestosterone vs. AndroGel

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Methyltestosterone (Methitest) and testosterone gel (Testim, AndroGel, Fortesta, Vogelxo) are both medications used for testosterone replacement therapy in males with low testosterone levels. They belong to the same drug class and are controlled substances due to their potential for misuse and dependency. However, they differ in several ways. Methyltestosterone is an oral medication available in tablet or capsule form, while testosterone gel is applied topically to the skin. Methyltestosterone is also FDA-approved for treating delayed puberty in males and breast cancer in females, whereas testosterone gel is only approved for low testosterone in males. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of methyltestosterone include acne and headaches, while testosterone gel can cause skin irritation, acne, and rash. Both medications can interact with blood thinners, but because testosterone gel is applied topically there is a risk of transferring the medication to someone else through skin-to-skin contact.

  • 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 a prescription topical medication used to treat men with low testosterone. It helps raise testosterone levels when your body doesn't make enough naturally. You typically apply it once a day to your skin. Depending on the product, the gel comes in packets, pumps, or tubes. Some side effects include skin irritation, mood changes, and headache. <br> Note: This medication is available under several brand names, including AndroGel, Testim, and Vogelxo as well as in generic versions. Each might have different strengths, application sites, and instructions.

  • Indications of Methyltestosterone vs. AndroGel

    Indications for

    Males

    •Low testosterone (hypogonadism)
    •Delayed puberty

    Females

    •Breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body
    Indications for
    •Low testosterone (also called hypogonadism)

  • Pros and Cons of Methyltestosterone vs. AndroGel

    Pros and Const for Testosterone replacement
    Pros
    •Is a pill taken by mouth
    •Restores healthy testosterone levels in men
    •Supports male development during puberty
    Cons
    •Risk of liver problems with long-term use
    •Potential for serious heart problems and blood clots
    •Risk of misuse and dependence since it's a controlled substance
    Pros and Const for Testosterone replacement
    Pros
    •Works well to raise testosterone levels
    •Applied once a day to your skin
    •Available in tubes, packets, or as a pump
    Cons
    •Can cause skin irritation
    •Must avoid skin-to-skin transfer to other people
    •Need to wait hours before you can shower, swim, or bathe

  • Common Side Effects of Methyltestosterone vs. AndroGel

    Common Side Effects for

    Males

    •Breast enlargement
    •Acne

    Females

    •Deeper voice
    •Acne
    •Missed or irregular menstrual periods
    •Increased facial and body hair
    Common Side Effects for

    AndroGel 1.62%

    •Rise in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (11%)

    AndroGel 1%

    •Acne (1-8%)
    •Abnormal lab tests (3-6%)
    •Skin irritation (3-5%)
    •Prostate problems (3-5%)

    Testim

    •Skin irritation (2-4%)
    •Rise in red blood cell count (1-2%)

    Vogelxo

    •Skin irritation (2-4%)
    •Rise in red blood cell count (1-2%)

  • Warnings of Methyltestosterone vs. AndroGel

    Common Side Effects for
    •Liver problems
    •Risk of blood clots, including heart attack or stroke
    •Potential for misuse, dependency, and addiction
    •Swelling in the legs or arms (edema)
    •High calcium in the blood
    •Fast bone maturation in children
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of testosterone gel spreading to others
    •Higher red blood cell count
    •Blood clots
    •Worsening of enlarged prostate and risk of prostate cancer
    •Higher blood pressure
    •Potential for misuse, addiction, and dependency
    •Lower sperm count
    •Liver problems
    •Swelling in the arms and legs (edema)
    •Enlarged breasts
    •Breathing problems during sleep (sleep apnea)
    •Changes in cholesterol levels
    •High calcium levels

  • Prices with our coupons for Methyltestosterone vs. AndroGel

    Learn more about Methyltestosterone
    Learn more about Testosterone gel

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