Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Testosterone gel (Testim, AndroGel, Fortesta, Vogelxo) and testosterone enanthate (Delatestryl) are both used to treat low testosterone in males, but they differ in their forms and administration. Testosterone gel is applied topically to the skin once a day, while testosterone enanthate is given as an intramuscular injection every 2 to 4 weeks. The gel can be convenient but carries a risk of transferring the medication to others through skin contact, which can cause unwanted side effects in children and females. On the other hand, testosterone enanthate is administered by a healthcare professional and has a longer duration of action, but it can cause pain and swelling at the injection site. Testosterone enanthate is also FDA-approved for treating delayed puberty in males and metastatic breast cancer in females, whereas testosterone gel is not. Both medications have generic forms available, making them more affordable options. However, testosterone enanthate contains sesame oil, which may not be suitable for those with sesame allergies.
Testosterone gel
Testosterone enanthate
Testosterone gel
Testosterone enanthate
Summary of Androgel vs. Delatestryl
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.
Summary for Testosterone replacement
Prescription only
Testosterone enanthate is a testosterone replacement therapy. It's mainly used in males to treat low testosterone levels and delayed puberty. It's also FDA-approved in females for treating metastatic breast cancer, but it's not a first-choice option for this condition. Testosterone enanthate is given as a deep injection into the muscle of the buttock, typically every 2 to 4 weeks by a healthcare professional (HCP). Side effects can include acne and pain or swelling at the injection site.
•In females, can cause the development of male features, including deepening of the voice, acne, absence of menstrual periods, and more facial and body hair
•Needs to be injected into the buttock muscle
•Only available as an injection
•Contains sesame oil, so might not be a good option if you have an allergy to sesame