Why is Testosterone So Widespread?
Analysis of Esters, Uses, and Dosages
Testosterone is the foundation of most hormone-based protocols, whether for medical purposes (TRT) or athletic enhancement. But why are there so many different esters? How do their properties affect the efficiency, injection frequency, and overall experience?
The Main Testosterone Esters and Their Characteristics
- Testosterone Propionate: Very short-acting (half-life 1.5 to 2 days). Fast-acting but requires frequent injections—every 1 to 2 days.
- Testosterone Enanthate: Half-life of 4 to 5 days, peaks around 48 to 72 hours, usually injected twice a week. One of the most commonly used forms.
- Testosterone Cypionate: Similar to enanthate but slightly longer (5 to 6 days). Popular in the US.
- Sustanon 250: A blend of four esters (propionate, phenylpropionate, isocaproate, decanoate) designed for a gradual release. Typically injected every 5 to 7 days.
- Testosterone Undecanoate (Nebido): Very long-acting (21 to 34 days). Common in TRT, injected once every 10 to 12 weeks.
- Testosterone Base (no ester): Ultra-fast action (within hours). Used occasionally as a pre-workout or in very specific protocols.
Medical Use (TRT)
Therapeutic doses are moderate and designed to maintain physiological testosterone levels:
- Enanthate or Cypionate: 75 to 150 mg per week, split into two injections.
- Undecanoate (Nebido): 1000 mg every 10 to 12 weeks.
Strict medical monitoring is essential: hematocrit, free testosterone, estradiol, PSA, cholesterol, etc.
Use in Bodybuilding / Performance
For goals like recomposition or performance, the dosages are higher:
- Beginners: 250–300 mg/week
- Intermediate users: 500–750 mg/week
- Competitors or “blast” phases: up to 1000 mg/week (sometimes more)
Injections are usually split into 2–3 doses per week to keep levels stable, reduce spikes, and minimize side effects (acne, anxiety, water retention).
Physiological Effects and Side Effects
Desired effects:
- Increased muscle mass
- Stronger bones
- Enhanced recovery and libido
- Stimulated red blood cell production
- Positive influence on dopamine levels
Side effects:
- Aromatization to estradiol: gynecomastia, water retention
- Acne, oily skin, mood changes
- Lipid disruptions: reduced HDL, elevated LDL
- Polycythemia (elevated hematocrit)
- Suppression of the HPTA axis (natural testosterone production)
Testosterone Use in Women
Rare outside of tightly controlled medical settings. Some women may use micro-doses under supervision:
- Propionate or base: 2.5 to 10 mg/week
However, virilization risks are real: deepened voice, acne, hair loss, amenorrhea. Oxandrolone or DHEA are often safer alternatives.
Protocol Examples (for Men)
- Standard TRT:
125 mg of enanthate weekly, split into two 62.5 mg injections. Ongoing.
- Beginner Cycle:
250–300 mg per week for 10–12 weeks, injected twice a week.
- Intermediate/Advanced Cycle:
500–750 mg weekly for 12–16 weeks, with estrogen control (AI if needed).
- Blast and Cruise:
Blast at 750–1000 mg/week followed by cruise at 125 mg/week.
A common bodybuilding approach, often with no PCT phase.
Summary
Testosterone remains the universal base for nearly all protocols. Choosing the right ester helps adjust injection frequency and maintain hormonal stability. It’s highly effective and generally well-tolerated, but starting from 400 mg/week, regular blood monitoring becomes crucial. For women, even micro-doses carry a significant risk of virilization and must be approached with caution.