Oral Testosterone Replacement: Kyzatrex versus Jatenzo

Low Testosterone

Testosterone is essential for normal development and the proper functioning of many bodily processes. A lack of testosterone can lead to changes in cognitive, sexual, and physical functions, often resulting in uncomfortable or unwanted symptoms such as:

• Lack of energy
• Low sex drive
• Depression and/or anxiety
• Decreased muscle mass
• Weight gain
• Difficulty sleeping

While these symptoms can be caused by low testosterone, they may also result from other medical conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider for a thorough assessment and diagnosis before starting any treatment for low testosterone. This ensures that the right cause is identified and appropriately treated.

Kyzatrex vs Jatenzo

When diagnosed with hypogonadism (low testosterone levels), the typical treatment involves replacing testosterone. There are several ways to supplement the hormone: injections, topical gels, and oral capsules.

For many years, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) predominantly relied on injections. However, in 2019, testosterone undecanoate (TU) became available in oral form, offering a more convenient option. TU is easy to take and avoids the need for injections, making it appealing for men seeking hormonal balance.

In this article, we will compare two oral testosterone products: Kyzatrex and Jatenzo.

Important Safety Information

Neither Kyzatrex nor Jatenzo should be used by:

• Individuals with suspected or known prostate cancer.
• Women who are pregnant.
• Individuals with low testosterone levels due to non-physical or non-genetic causes.

By understanding the differences and benefits of these two oral testosterone treatments, men with hypogonadism can make more informed decisions about their health.

How Do Kyzatrex and Jatenzo Work?

Kyzatrex and Jatenzo both work by increasing testosterone levels in your body. Historically, developing oral testosterone medications has been challenging due to difficulties with absorption. Generally, oral testosterone passes through the liver, which can inactivate the hormone. There were also concerns about liver damage from earlier products, but newer medications have addressed this issue.

Understanding Testosterone Undecanoate

Testosterone undecanoate (TU) is a form of oral testosterone designed to overcome absorption challenges. Instead of being processed through the liver, TU uses fats from the food you eat to be absorbed into the body. This method allows the testosterone to enter the lymphatic system, bypassing the liver and effectively increasing testosterone levels.

Dose and Administration

Both Jatenzo and Kyzatrex are taken by mouth, with food, two times per day.

• Jatenzo: Comes in 158 mg, 198 mg, and 237 mg
• Kyzatrex: Comes in 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg

Side Effects

It's important to monitor for side effects both before and during treatment with these medications. The main side effect observed with both Jatenzo and Kyzatrex is an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, blood pressure should be checked regularly to ensure the medication remains safe to use. Extra caution should be taken for individuals with risk factors or already significantly elevated blood pressure before starting these medications.

Additional Side Effects of Jatenzo

• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Burping
• Peripheral edema (swelling in the limbs)
• Nausea
• Headache
• Enlarged prostate
• Elevated blood hematocrit levels (increased red blood cells)

While these side effects do not occur in everyone, Jatenzo has been associated with more side effects in clinical studies compared to Kyzatrex.

Severe Risks of Medications

Jatenzo and Kyzatrex both contain the same active ingredient (testosterone undecanoate). As with most medications, the use of these products comes with some rare but serious risks. These risks are the same for both medications, and includes but is not limited to:

• Worsening benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Individuals who have BPH should be monitored closely while initiating testosterone products to assess for worsening symptoms of the condition.
• Increased risk of a venous thromboembolism (blood clot): The use of testosterone products may possibly increase the risk of a blood clot, and therefore should be monitored for, particularly in individuals with increased risk factors.
• Increased risk of sleep apnea: Testosterone products may increase the risk of developing sleep apnea, particularly in individuals who are already at risk of developing the condition.
• Fertility changes: There is a potential for testosterone products to result in reduced sperm production (azoospermia), which may have an impact on fertility.
• Medication overuse: Testosterone is a controlled substance and should only be taken at the dose prescribed. If you are at risk of/considering using more medication than prescribed, speak with your healthcare provider to ensure you are maintaining safe use of your medication.

In addition to the shared risks, Jatenzo has been associated with one additional danger: worsening mood. Specifically, during clinical studies multiple patients reported worsening or new onset of depression, suicidal thoughts, and other mood changes.

Overall, the potential risks involved with taking either testosterone product is similar and the decision should take into account factors relating to your individual health.

Retail Cost

Price is a major distinguishing factor between these two medications:

• Jatenzo: 120 capsules cost about $900.
• Kyzatrex: 120 capsules cost $159, regardless of the strength.

This price difference becomes even more notable when considering the dosage.

• Jatenzo: The cost varies depending on the strength. A 120-capsule supply ranges from $1,200 for 158 mg to $2,400 for 237 mg.
• Kyzatrex: Significantly more affordable at only $159 for 120 capsules, available through Marley Drug even without insurance coverage.

This lower cost makes Kyzatrex more accessible to a wider population. However, patients with insurance coverage may find that they can obtain Jatenzo at a reduced cost. Therefore, the decision between these medications in respect to cost will ultimately depend on your financial circumstances, insurance coverage, and the other characteristics of the medications.