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Progesterone vs. Testosterone

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

Key takeaways

Progesterone injection and testosterone gel are both used to address hormone imbalances, but they belong to different medication classes and treat different conditions. Progesterone injection is a progestin used to treat lack of menstrual periods and abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormone imbalance. It is sometimes used off-label for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Testosterone gel, a testosterone replacement, is used to treat low testosterone (hypogonadism) in adult males. Progesterone is administered intramuscularly, while testosterone gel is applied topically once daily. Progesterone is available as a lower-cost generic, whereas testosterone gel is available in various brand names like Testim and AndroGel, some of which have generic versions. Common side effects of progesterone include injection site pain and breast tenderness, while testosterone gel can cause skin irritation and acne. Both medications can increase the risk of blood clots. Testosterone gel is a controlled substance and has a risk of misuse and dependence.

Progesterone

 

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testosterone gel

 

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Summary for Progesterone

Prescription only

Progesterone is an injection used to treat people who aren't getting their period or have abnormal bleeding due to hormone imbalance. It belongs to a group of medications called progestins and works by replacing progesterone hormone that's naturally made in the body. The medication is typically injected into the muscle daily for 6-8 days in a row. Potential side effects include pain at the injection site, weight gain or weight loss, and breast tenderness.

Indications for Progesterone

Pros and Cons for Progesterone

Pros

  • Helps to regulate your menstrual period
  • Only has to be taken once a day
  • Might be a good option for people who can't swallow pills

Cons

  • Not safe if you have liver problems
  • Not a good option if you're allergic to sesame oil
  • Potentially raises your risk of serious blood clots

Common Side Effects for Progesterone

  • Pain, swelling, and/or redness at the injection site
  • Breakthrough bleeding or spotting
  • Changes in menstrual flow
  • Changes in weight
  • Swelling
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Breast tenderness

Warnings for Progesterone

  • Blood clots
  • Vision problems
  • Fluid buildup
  • Pneumonia

Summary for Testosterone

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.

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 for Testosterone

Pros and Cons for Testosterone

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 for Testosterone

AndroGel 1.62%

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 for Testosterone

  • 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 Progesterone vs. Testosterone

Price Card Drug Icon
Progesterone30 capsules / 100mg
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Testosterone1 pump / 88g of 1.62%
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