Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Testopel (testosterone) and testosterone enanthate (Delatestryl) are both testosterone replacement therapies used to treat low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) and delayed puberty in males. They belong to the same drug class and work by increasing testosterone levels. However, they differ in their administration and additional uses. Testopel is an implantable pellet placed under the skin by a healthcare professional every 3 to 6 months, while testosterone enanthate is an intramuscular injection given by a healthcare professional every 2 to 4 weeks. Testosterone enanthate is also FDA-approved for treating metastatic breast cancer in females, which is not an indication for Testopel. Testopel is only available as a brand-name medication, whereas testosterone enanthate is available in a lower-cost generic form. Common side effects of both medications include acne as well as pain and swelling at the implantation or injection site. Both medications increase the risk of serious side effects like heart attack and liver problems, and they can interact with blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Testopel (testosterone pellets)
Testosterone enanthate
Testopel (testosterone pellets)
Testosterone enanthate
Summary of Testopel vs. Delatestryl
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.
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