Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Testosterone oral tablet (Striant) and Testopel (testosterone pellets) are both testosterone replacement therapies used to treat low testosterone in adult males. However, they differ in several ways. Striant, which is no longer available in the U.S., was an orally dissolving tablet. Testopel is a pellett that's implanted under the skin. Testopel is also used for delayed puberty, which is not an indication for Striant. Testopel is implanted under the skin every 3 to 6 months, providing long-acting testosterone release, while Striant required more frequent dosing. Testopel can cause side effects like pain and swelling at the implantation site, and it has risks such as infection and extrusion, which were not concerns with Striant. Additionally, Testopel has interactions with blood thinners like warfarin, which may require monitoring.
Testosterone oral tablet
Testopel (testosterone pellets)
Testosterone oral tablet
Testopel (testosterone pellets)
Summary of Striant vs. Testopel
Summary for Testosterone replacement
The testosterone oral tablet is used to treat low testosterone in adult males. It's no longer available in the United States because it was discontinued.
Summary for Testosterone replacement
Prescription only
Testopel (testosterone pellets) is an implantable pellet medication used as long-acting testosterone replacement therapy. It treats certain males with low testosterone and delayed puberty. The pellets are implanted, or placed under your skin, by a healthcare professional (HCP) typically every 3 to 6 months. Side effects include pain and swelling at the implantation site, as well as sexual side effects like more frequent erections and changes in sex drive.