From the Research
For female hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the recommended starting dose of testosterone is typically 2-4 mg of testosterone cypionate or enanthate injected subcutaneously every 1-2 weeks, with gradual increases based on symptom improvement and blood test results, as supported by recent guidelines 1. The dose can be adjusted to achieve optimal symptom relief while minimizing adverse effects, with most women requiring between 2-10 mg weekly. Key considerations for testosterone injection dosing in female HRT include:
- Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed
- Monitoring testosterone levels regularly to aim for the upper end of the female reference range (typically 40-70 ng/dL)
- Watching for side effects such as acne, hair growth, voice deepening, and clitoral enlargement
- Using pharmaceutical-grade testosterone prescribed by a healthcare provider rather than compounded formulations
- Regular monitoring every 3-6 months to ensure appropriate dosing and minimize adverse effects, as emphasized in recent studies 2, 3. It's essential to prioritize the patient's individual needs and response to treatment, as well as to consider the potential risks and benefits of testosterone therapy in the context of female HRT, as discussed in recent reviews 4, 5.