Testosterone Pellets 101: How Do Pellets Compare to Injections or Creams?

What was easy to do at 25 is certainly not the case at 45. When it comes to energy, mood, and lifestyle, most men feel the decline as they age. Some have a dip that’s so concerning that they seek medical help. Fortunately, there are a wealth of options today to help identify the underlying causes of these symptoms, which are often related to hormones.

Several specialties at Ogden Clinic provide hormone therapies for men and women. In our Weight and Metabolic Center, Dr. Rohn Rigby and his team offer a special type of testosterone (TRT) therapy for men, administered through surgically-implanted pellets. Learn more about Pellet Therapy, including the risks and benefits of this type of administration.

What is Testosterone Therapy (TRT) For?

Testosterone is one type of hormone found in men and women, although it is markedly higher in men. When levels are low, supplementation is clinically proven to improve:

• Aerobic capacity, motivation, strength, and/or libido
• Hair loss and hair quality
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Muscle mass
• Decreased concentration or trouble remembering
• Mood changes including depression

Popular Ways to Supplement Testosterone

Two of the most popular ways to administer TRT are injections and creams.

TRT injections (shots) are popular because the dosage can be easily adjusted. Injections last between one and four weeks, so your doctor can monitor how your body responds and tweak the dosage on a weekly or monthly basis.

• Pro: TRT injections are often covered by insurance.
• Pro: TRT dosage can be monitored adjusted frequently.
• Con: Injection dosage fluctuates; it’s highest when it enters your system and tapers down as it’s dissolved.
• Con: You will need to visit your provider every few weeks for a TRT shot.

TRT creams are convenient since patients can apply it at home, following their provider’s instructions.

• Pro: Patients apply TRT cream on their own and don’t need to visit their provider as often.
• Pro: TRT creams provide a continuous hormone release.
• Con: Creams can transfer through skin or clothing onto others, so patients must be diligent about washing their hands and letting it thoroughly dry down.

What is TRT Pellet Therapy?

Pellets are bioidentical testosterone hormones (naturally made by the body) that are about the size of rice grain. In a short in-office surgery, Dr. Rigby makes a small incision in the upper buttocks or flank after numbing the area and implants the hard-packed pellet.

Unlike creams…

Pellet therapy releases hormones directly into your bloodstream, eliminating the need for daily dosing. There is no risk of transfer and no need to reapply daily.

Unlike injections…

• Pellets only need to be implanted two to four times per year.
• They dissolve gradually over four to six months and provide a steadier delivery than injections.
• The steadier delivery may also help with mood swings that can arise with shots.

Note: Pellet therapy is only available for men at the Weight and Metabolic Center.

What are the Cons of TRT Pellet Therapy?

There are a few drawbacks to testosterone pellet therapy, including:

Toleration: If the pellet is not well tolerated, it can’t be removed and will need to continue dissolving over four to six months. “We take a very conservative approach with pellets,” says Dr. Rigby, “Initially, we want a dosage that’s not too high to prevent intolerability.”

Price: In most clinics, Pellet Therapy is a self-pay service. Most insurances do not yet cover this administration type. Prices at the Weight and Metabolic Center align with the national average.

Infection: As with any surgery, there is a very small risk of infection. Patients should keep the area clean and dressed while it heals and follow their provider’s instructions.

Considering Pellet Therapy?

Pellet Therapy Brochure

At the Weight and Metabolic Center in Layton, Utah, pellet therapy is part of a comprehensive health plan. “Patients should expect initial bloodwork and a health evaluation before starting any type of treatment,” says Dr. Rigby. This team focuses on whole-body health and includes weight management specialists, dietitians, a diabetes practitioner, and a behavioral health therapist.