Testosterone Enanthate for TRT & Hormone Optimization — Anabolic Steroids

Widely used testosterone ester with a 5-7 day half-life, available in both IM and subcutaneous formulations.

Overview

Testosterone Enanthate is one of the most widely used testosterone esters globally for hormone replacement therapy. With a half-life of 5-7 days, it provides reliable testosterone delivery via intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. The FDA-approved subcutaneous auto-injector Xyosted offers 50-100mg weekly doses for convenient self-administration. Enanthate and cypionate are pharmacologically near-identical, with enanthate having a slightly shorter half-life. It is dissolved in sesame or grapeseed oil and is the preferred formulation in many countries outside the US. At replacement doses, it effectively restores physiological testosterone levels, improving body composition, sexual function, mood, and metabolic parameters.

Indications

  • Primary and secondary hypogonadism
  • Age-related testosterone decline
  • Delayed puberty in adolescent males
  • Muscle wasting conditions
  • Osteoporosis in androgen-deficient males
  • Gender-affirming hormone therapy
  • Androgen deficiency syndrome
  • Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

Mechanism of Action

Serum testosterone below 300 ng/dL with clinical symptoms of hypogonadism

Dosing

CompoundDoseFrequencyNotes
Testosterone Enanthate100-200 mgOnce weeklyStandard replacement dosing for physiological testosterone restoration
Testosterone Enanthate (Xyosted)50-100 mgOnce weeklyFDA-approved subcutaneous auto-injector (Xyosted) for convenience
Testosterone Enanthate75-100 mgTwice weeklySplit dosing for more stable serum levels and reduced aromatization

Evidence Grade

GRADE A

Safety & Contraindications

  • Schedule III controlled substance
  • Monitor hematocrit - risk of polycythemia (>54%)
  • May suppress spermatogenesis and fertility
  • Screen for sleep apnea before and during treatment
  • Monitor PSA in men over 40
  • Can cause gynecomastia via aromatization to estradiol
  • Contraindicated in known prostate or breast cancer
  • Monitor liver function periodically
  • Oil vehicle allergy risk (sesame oil) - alternatives available
  • Cardiovascular safety supported by TRAVERSE trial data