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Testosterone Cypionate (Testosterone Cypionate (Depo-Testosterone))

Category: Hormone Replacement. Status: FDA Approved (Schedule III).

The gold standard testosterone ester for hormone replacement therapy. Provides stable serum testosterone levels with weekly or biweekly injections. Prescribed for male hypogonadism and increasingly used in optimized TRT protocols.

How it works

Exogenous testosterone binds androgen receptors in muscle, bone, brain, and reproductive tissues. The cypionate ester provides slow release from the injection depot, maintaining physiologic levels between doses.

Key facts

  • Molecular weight: 412.61 Da
  • Half-life: ~8 days
  • Bioavailability: ~100% (intramuscular)
  • Storage: Room temperature. Protect from light. Multi-use vial stable for 28 days.

Dosing overview

  • Typical dose: 100-200 mg
  • Frequency: Weekly or split biweekly
  • Duration: Ongoing (lifetime TRT)
  • Route: Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection

Reported benefits

  • Restored libido and sexual function
  • Increased lean muscle mass
  • Improved bone density
  • Enhanced mood and cognitive clarity
  • Reduced visceral fat
  • Improved energy and motivation

Possible side effects

  • Erythrocytosis (elevated hematocrit)
  • Acne
  • Hair loss (genetic)
  • Testicular atrophy (without HCG)
  • Estradiol elevation
  • Potential fertility suppression

Research

  • Testosterone therapy and cardiovascular outcomes (2023): TRAVERSE trial (n=5,246) showed non-inferiority for MACE events vs placebo in hypogonadal men with CV risk factors.
  • TRT and metabolic parameters (2021): Meta-analysis of 28 RCTs showed significant improvements in insulin sensitivity, body composition, and lipid profiles.

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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.