Administering An Intramuscular Testosterone Injection

How to Administer an Intramuscular Testosterone Injection Safely

How to Inject Testosterone Intramuscularly at Home

To inject testosterone intramuscularly, clean the site, use a long needle at a 90-degree angle, and inject slowly into the glute or thigh muscle. Always aspirate to avoid blood vessels and follow sterile practices for safety and comfort.

What You Need to Know Before Injecting Testosterone

Testosterone injections should only be distributed under the supervision and prescription of a qualified medical professional. This article outlines the safest method for administering testosterone medication.

Step 1: Prepare Your Injection Area and Supplies

1. Prepare all necessary items for administering your medication, including:

1 or 2 syringes (1ml)

1 ampoule of testosterone

1 filter/fill needle (18G)

1 injecting needle (23G/25G/27G, or 29G, depending on the thickness of the testosterone oil)

1 or 2 alcohol wipes

Sharps bin

2. Ensure the testosterone ampoule is not expired and check for any particles or discolouration before use.

3. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water and dry them with paper towels to prevent infection.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Site for Intramuscular Testosterone Injections

Preferred Option: Gluteus Maximus Muscle Injection In The Buttocks

Injecting into the gluteal muscle is highly recommended due to its comfort and safety. This site typically involves minimal discomfort during and after the injection and poses a low risk of encountering veins or nerves.

Injection Site For Testosterone In The Buttocks:

Inject into the upper outer quadrant of either buttock, aiming for the top corner farthest from the spine.

Option 2 – Vastus Lateralis Muscle Injection In The Thigh:

While this injection site may be slightly more uncomfortable than the gluteal region, some individuals find it easier to administer due to its front-facing position. To locate the injection site:

• Divide your thigh horizontally into three equal parts.
  
  
• The injection should be administered in the outer middle third of the thigh.
  
  
• Form a "V" shape with your fingers to guide your placement, separating your first finger from the others.
  
  
• Position the heel of your hand on the bone (femur) just above the knee joint and aim the injection above the "V" towards the centre of the thigh.
  

Step 3: How to Draw and Prepare Your Testosterone Dose

1. Examine the packaging of the syringes and needles to ensure they are intact and undamaged.
   
   
2. If the packaging is compromised, discard the syringes or needles. Ensure no oil residue is at the top of the ampoule. If present, gently warm the ampoule and manipulate it until the oil disperses into the main solution. Skip this step if using a vial.
   
   
3. Use an ampoule snapper or your fingers to open the ampoule by placing it in the snapper with the marked dot facing you. Alternatively, firmly hold the bottom of the ampoule and snap the top off with your fingers.
   
   
4. Place the opened ampoule on a flat surface.
   
   
5. Carefully unwrap the syringe, avoiding contact between the open end and any surface, including your hands.
   
   
6. Unwrap the 18G needle, being cautious not to touch the exposed end, and attach it to the syringe.
   
   
7. Remove the cover from the 18G needle without allowing it to touch any surface.
   
   
8. Keep the ampoule on the surface and insert the needle vertically through the centre. For vials, insert the injection needle (not the 18G needle) into the rubber stopper, invert the vial, and withdraw the required amount.
   
   
9. Gradually draw back on the plunger to fill the syringe with the prescribed medication volume (in ml or cc) per your doctor's instructions.
   
   
10. Withdraw the needle from the ampoule and invert the syringe to inspect for air bubbles. If present, tap the syringe gently with your fingers to dislodge the bubbles. Slightly retract the plunger, then push it upward to expel the air. Avoid contact between the needle and any surface.
    
    
11. If drawing from an ampoule, replace the fill needle with an injection needle. Keep the needle cover on until you're prepared to administer the injection.
    
    
12. Repeat the process if additional syringes need filling.
    
    
13. Verify that the syringe contains the correct dosage, adhering precisely to the prescribed amount by your physician.
    

Step 4: How to Safely Inject Testosterone Into the Muscle

1. Cleanse the skin at the injection site using an alcohol swab, allowing it to air dry.
   
   
2. Gently stabilise the skin surrounding the injection area to create slight tension.
   
   
3. Insert the intramuscular (IM) needle into the muscle at a 90-degree angle with a swift, firm motion.
   
   
4. Once the needle is in the muscle, release your grip on the skin.
   
   
5. Slowly pull back on the syringe's plunger to check for the presence of blood (this is known as 'aspirating'). If blood enters the syringe, refrain from injecting the medication, remove the needle immediately, and discard both the medication and equipment. Restart the process with fresh supplies.
   
   
6. If no blood is observed in the needle, administer the medication slowly into the muscle. You may experience mild pressure as the medicine enters the muscle.
   
   
7. Upon completing the injection of the entire medication dose into the muscle, withdraw the needle slowly and at the same angle it was inserted. Minor bleeding at the injection site may occur, which is typically normal and not cause for concern.
   
   
8. Apply gentle pressure to the injection site using an alcohol swab. Maintain pressure until bleeding ceases. If necessary, cover the injection site with a band-aid or adhesive plaster.
   

How to Reduce Pain from Intramuscular Testosterone Injections

Ensure the medication is at room temperature before injection, as cold medicine can cause additional discomfort.

• Eliminate any air bubbles from the syringe before administering the injection to prevent unnecessary pain or irritation.
  
  
• Allow the skin to air dry thoroughly after using alcohol wipes to cleanse the injection site. This helps reduce stinging upon injection.
  
  
• Keep the muscles in the testosterone injection area relaxed to facilitate easier needle insertion and minimise discomfort.
  
  
• Swiftly break through the skin with the needle to reduce the anticipation and discomfort associated with prolonged insertion.
  
  
• Maintain a consistent direction with the needle during insertion and withdrawal to minimise tissue trauma and discomfort.
  
  
• Avoid reusing disposable needles to prevent dulling, which can increase injection discomfort and risk of injury. Always use a new, sterile needle for each injection.

By following these tips, you can help make your testosterone injections more comfortable and less stressful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Intramuscular Testosterone Injections

Q1: Where should I inject testosterone intramuscularly?

The gluteus maximus (upper outer quadrant of the buttock) is the most recommended site. The thigh (vastus lateralis) is also commonly used for self-injection.

Q2: How often should I do an intramuscular testosterone injection?

Most men inject testosterone weekly or every 3.5 days, depending on the prescribed dose and ester (e.g., Enanthate or Cypionate).

Q3: Should I aspirate when doing an intramuscular injection?

Yes. Pull back the plunger slightly after inserting the needle. If blood appears, remove the needle and restart the procedure. This ensures the injection isn’t into a blood vessel.

Q4: What needle size is used for intramuscular testosterone injections?

Typically, needles measuring 23–25G, 1 to 1.5 inches in length, are used to ensure deep muscle penetration.

Q5: Can testosterone be injected at home?

Yes, with proper medical training and instruction, many men safely self-administer intramuscular testosterone at home.

Safe Disposal of Used Testosterone Syringes and Needles

Please ensure the disposal of syringes and other sharp objects to mitigate health risks and environmental harm. Always use a designated sharps bin for disposing of used needles and syringes.

Androgenix offers safe and effective treatment, overseen by qualified doctors to ensure both safety and efficacy. If you're concerned about receiving Intramuscular Testosterone Injections and need guidance, Androgenix is here to help. 

Our experts can provide tailored support and assistance to address your specific needs and concerns.