Xyosted Injection: An Option for Testosterone Replacement
Xyosted is part of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for adult men with low testosterone levels (hypogonadism). It delivers testosterone enanthate, a synthetic form of testosterone, through an autoinjector. By supplementing testosterone levels, Xyosted helps alleviate symptoms like low energy, reduced muscle mass, and other related concerns.
Keep in mind that Xyosted is not meant for women and has not been studied for use in children under 18 years old. Using it improperly in kids could interfere with bone growth, so it’s only prescribed for adult men under a doctor’s care.
Drug class | Androgen replacements or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) |
Available forms | Injection |
Strengths | 50, 75, 100 mg |
How It Works
Xyosted uses a form of testosterone called testosterone enanthate, which is created to work over a longer period in your body compared to some testosterone.
The medication is given as an injection into the fat layer under your skin (subcutaneous) and gradually release the hormone. This method helps maintain more stable testosterone levels without the need for frequent dosing.
Efficacy
In a clinical study of 150 men with low testosterone, Xyosted was used once a week for a full year.
By the 12th week, 90% of the men had testosterone levels within the normal range of 300–1,100 ng/dL, and almost all of them (98.5%) reached steady levels overall.
These results show that Xyosted can help most men maintain healthy testosterone levels when used consistently, though regular blood tests and adjustments might be part of the process.
Common Conditions Treated
Hypogonadism
Xyosted is used to treat low testosterone levels caused by hypogonadism, which can result from primary issues with the testes or secondary causes, such as the brain failing to signal the testes to produce testosterone.
Common symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Fatigue
- Low sex drive
- Reduced muscle mass
- Decreased bone density
- Mood changes
- Difficuties with concentration
Course of Treatment
Xyosted comes as a prefilled autoinjector and injected once a week. It’s self- administration at home, requiring a quick injection under the skin in the stomach area, at least 2 inches away from the belly button.
The medication is absorbed by the body within about 12 hours after injection, but it may take around 6 weeks for testosterone levels to fully stabilize. During this time, your doctor may adjust your dosage based on your progress.
For best results, Xyosted should be stored at room temperature and handled as directed.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one.
It is important to stay consistent with your weekly injections to maintain stable testosterone levels. If you’re unsure about what to do or have questions about your schedule, contact your healthcare provider for help.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Injection site reactions, such as redness, pain, or swelling
- Headache
- Nausea
- Increased blood pressure
- Increase in prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which may indicate prostate changes
Serious Side Effects
- Suicidal thoughts or significant changes in mood or behavior
- High blood pressure, which can increase your risk of heart problems
- Increased red blood cell count, hematocrit, or hemoglobin, which may lead to complications such as thickened blood
- Cardiovascular risks, including potential heart attack or stroke
- Worsening of an already enlarged prostate, leading to difficulty urinating
- Increased risk of prostate cancer, especially in those predisposed to it
- Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism), which may cause pain, swelling, or breathing issues
- In large doses, Xyosted may lower sperm count, potentially affecting fertility
- Liver problems, including yellowing of the skin or eyes, or abdominal pain
- Swelling of the ankles, feet, or body, with or without signs of heart failure, such as shortness of breath
- Enlarged or tender breasts (gynecomastia)
- Sleep apnea, or worsening of existing sleep apnea
Symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of a blood clot, including swelling in the legs or sudden shortness of breath, require emergency medical attention.
Who Should Not Use Xyosted
Prostate Cancer
- Men with known or suspected prostate cancer should not use Xyosted.
- Testosterone therapy can stimulate the growth of prostate tissue, potentially worsening cancer or increasing its risk.
Pregnant Women
- Xyosted is contraindicated in women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Exposure to testosterone can harm an unborn baby and may cause developmental issues.
- Women should avoid handling this medication or coming into contact with the injection site.
Male Breast Cancer
- Men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer should not use Xyosted, as testosterone may worsen this condition.
Allergies
- Patients with a known allergy to Xyosted or its ingredients, including testosterone or sesame oil, should avoid this medication.
- Keep in mind that allergic reactions can range from mild skin reactions to severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.
These contraindications are in place to minimize risks and complications associated with the unsafe use of Xyosted.
Speak with Your Doctor
Speaking with your doctor about Xyosted is important because it helps determine if this medication is appropriate for you and how it can be used safely and effectively.
Your doctor can further explain how it works, its potential benefits, and any risks involved. They will also monitor your health throughout your treatment, checking for side effects or complications, such as high blood pressure, changes in red blood cell counts, or prostate issues.
Discussing this with your doctor helps you make informed decisions about your treatment plan and helps maximize your treatment's effectiveness while minimizing potential risks.