Testosterone enanthate is an injected anabolic steroid used primarily for the treatment of low testosterone levels in men. It is an ester variant of the base testosterone compound which enables a slower release of testosterone into the bloodstream than an ester-free form.
Some key points about testosterone enanthate:
- Testosterone enanthate is administered by intramuscular injection, usually into the upper outer quadrant of the buttocks, or thigh. It is gradually released into the bloodstream over a period of approximately 10 days.
- Testosterone enanthate is used as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for hypogonadal men to improve low energy, muscle mass, bone health, sexual function, and overall wellbeing.
So how does it work?
- After injection into the muscle tissue, testosterone enanthate is absorbed into the bloodstream. The ester slows the rate at which the free testosterone in the compound is released into the bloodstream. The peak serum levels are reached 4-5 days post injection, plateauing for 2-3 days, then slowly decrementing from there.
- Testosterone enanthate increases anabolism and protein synthesis leading to improved muscle size and strength. It also stimulates the growth centers in bones and triggers important pubertal changes like growth spurts and establishment of men’s reproductive function.
What are the side effects?
Potential side effects include acne, accelerated hair loss, sleep apnoea, prostate enlargement, increased red blood cell count, fluid retention and reduced sperm production. Side effects are generally dose dependant and tend to be more prevalent at high supraphysiological doses. Like all medications, every individual responds differently and a physician should monitor your health on an ongoing basis.
I hope this overview gives you a good understanding of what testosterone enanthate is and how it works! Let me know if you have any other questions.