Testosterone cypionate
DEPO- TESTOSTERONE
What it isLong-acting androgen-receptor agonist injection; testosterone replacement for male hypogonadism.
Why this oneUnlike injectable undecanoate, it has no post-injection pulmonary-oil warning or observation requirement.
What limits itMonitor hematocrit, prostate risk and symptoms of sleep apnea. It suppresses spermatogenesis and can cause acne, edema and mood swings.
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male hypogonadism (primary or hypogonadotropic) — testosterone replacement | Males | 50–400 mg IM every 2–4 weeks | Adjust to clinical response | 400 mg per 2–4 weeks |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- IM only, deep in gluteal muscle; not for IV use
- Confirm hypogonadism with morning serum testosterone below normal on at least two separate days before starting
- Warm and shake vial to redissolve any crystals
- Do not interchange with testosterone propionate (different duration)
Contraindications
- Males with carcinoma of the breast
- Males with known or suspected carcinoma of the prostate gland
- Women who are pregnant
- Patients with serious cardiac, hepatic or renal disease
Cautions
- Venous thromboembolism (DVT/PE)
- Possible increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events
- Can increase blood pressure/CV risk; not recommended in uncontrolled hypertension
- Abuse potential (anabolic androgenic steroids)
- Hepatic effects (peliosis hepatis, adenoma, hepatocellular carcinoma) with prolonged high doses
- Edema, with or without CHF, in cardiac/renal/hepatic disease
- Contains benzyl alcohol — gasping syndrome in neonates
- May accelerate bone maturation in children
Adverse reactions
- Gynecomastia
- Excessive/prolonged penile erections
- Oligospermia at high doses
- Fluid and electrolyte retention
- Polycythemia
- Nausea, cholestatic jaundice, abnormal LFTs
- Venous thromboembolism
- Injection site pain and inflammation
Pregnancy Contraindicated in pregnancy; testosterone is teratogenic and virilizes the female fetus
Lactation Not recommended for use in nursing mothers
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Mechanism of action: Testosterone cypionate ballicule
