Treatment options: how they compare
There is more than one way to treat testosterone deficiency once a licensed provider has confirmed it with symptoms and lab work. The medicine, how it is given and how often it is checked differ, and plans to have children can change which choices make sense, because testosterone can reduce sperm production. Your provider chooses with you, based on your labs, history and preferences. The guides in this topic compare the options in plain terms, including the trade-offs, so you can come to your visit with questions.
Guides in this topic
Each guide lists its sources at the end.
Important safety information
Testosterone has known risks, and a licensed provider reviews them with you before any decision.
Testosterone is FDA-approved for men with low testosterone caused by certain medical conditions. Its safety and effectiveness for low testosterone due to aging alone have not been established. Testosterone can raise blood pressure and red blood cell count, reduce sperm production and fertility, and requires monitoring of the prostate and blood levels. Your provider will review the benefits and risks and monitor you with regular labs.
Testosterone is a controlled substance because it can be misused. Abuse and dependence have been reported, mostly at doses above those prescribed. Take it only as your provider directs.
Testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance. Depending on your state, and on federal telemedicine rules that are currently set to change after December 31, 2026, an in-person exam may be required before or during treatment.
How these guides are reviewed
Every guide is checked against primary sources before it is published, and it is updated when the evidence or the rules change. Read our editorial and medical review policy.
This page is general health information and not medical advice. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.