Time-Released Testosterone Pellets for Male Menopause

Testosterone pellets, which are the size of a grain of rice, are made of compressed testosterone that dissolves slowly and is released over months. Testosterone is used to relieve symptoms of “male menopause,” which include low libido, depression and lack of energy.

Implantation

• Using a needle, a doctor injects the testosterone slightly below the skin. The implant dissolves, allowing a slow and steady delivery into the bloodstream.

Benefits

• Time-released testosterone pellets are more convenient than injections, because they are implanted two to three times per year, while injection are given every two weeks. A study by the University of Medicine in Toronto revealed that testosterone therapy can increase energy, give a sense of well-being and improve memory.

Side Effects

• As with any medication, testosterone has certain side effects. Side effects include itching or swelling at the injection site, frequent erections and an increased red blood cell count. Men with preexisting heart, liver or kidney disease should not use testosterone.

Procedure

• Testosterone pellets are implanted by a doctor, who uses local anesthesia to numb the injection sight. Depending on the amount of testosterone required, the patient may receive four to six pellets. Most often, pellets are implanted under the skin of the stomach or buttock.

Complications

• It is possible for a testosterone pellet to work its way out of the skin. Because the pellet is 1/8 inch in diameter and 3/8 inch in length, the rejection of a pellet is not considered a dangerous complication but rather a nuisance.