Testosterone pellets in Atlanta
Small testosterone pellets (Testopel®) placed under the skin in the office, about every 3 months. No daily gel and no weekly shots.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Chirag Dave
Key facts
- Each pellet is about the size of a grain of rice and contains 75 mg of testosterone.
- The usual starting dose is 10 to 14 pellets, placed under sterile conditions in the office.
- Repeated about once every 3 months.
- Procedure risks: bleeding, infection, and pellet extrusion in less than 1% of cases.
Why men choose pellets
Pellets are convenient: dosing happens a few times a year in the office, so there is nothing to apply daily and no self-injection.
What the visit involves
Placement is a short office procedure done under sterile conditions. The skin of the upper buttock or hip area is numbed with local anesthetic, a tiny opening is made, and the pellets are placed in the fatty tissue under the skin. The opening is closed with a small dressing or strips.
Aftercare
- Keep the dressing clean and dry as instructed.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and activity that puts pressure on the site for a few days.
- Call the office if you notice increasing redness, swelling, drainage or a pellet coming out.
Pellets compared with gel and injections
Pellets avoid daily application and the risk of transferring gel to partners or children, and avoid regular needles. Unlike gel or injections, the dose cannot be adjusted until the next placement. See the comparison of TRT options.
Is pellet therapy right for you?
Pellets suit men who want steady dosing without daily or weekly treatment. Because the dose cannot be removed once placed, some men start with gel or injections first. If you may want children, tell your doctor before starting any testosterone therapy so you can discuss options. Compare gel and injections.
Monitoring on any testosterone therapy
Whatever form you choose, your physician monitors you at regular intervals, usually every 3 to 6 months, to make sure your symptoms are controlled and to check for side effects. Follow-up usually includes:
- Bloodwork for testosterone and other hormone levels every 3 to 6 months.
- Bloodwork for lipids, hemoglobin and hematocrit, and PSA every 6 months.
- A yearly physical exam, including a digital rectal exam to check the prostate.
Frequently asked questions
How often are testosterone pellets placed?
Usually once every 3 months, in the office.
How many pellets are placed?
The usual starting dose is 10 to 14 pellets, each about the size of a grain of rice and containing 75 mg of testosterone. Your physician sets your dose from your labs.
How long do testosterone pellets last?
Pellets release testosterone gradually and are usually replaced about every 3 months. Your physician times the next placement using your symptoms and bloodwork.
Do testosterone pellets hurt?
The skin is numbed with local anesthetic before a tiny opening is made, so most men feel pressure rather than pain. The area may be sore for a few days.
Can pellets be removed if my dose is too high?
Once placed, pellets cannot easily be taken out, which is why some men try gel or injections first to find the right dose.
What are the risks of pellet placement?
Because it is a short office procedure, risks include bleeding, infection and a pellet coming out (extrusion) in less than 1% of cases.
Talk with a urologist
Appointments at 14 Advanced Urology offices across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. Find an office.