What are the side effects of testosterone (hormone) pellets in females?

From the Guidelines

Testosterone pellet therapy in females can cause several side effects, including acne, hirsutism, deepening of the voice, and clitoral enlargement, as reported in the most recent study 1.

Common Side Effects

• Acne
• Hair growth in unwanted areas (hirsutism)
• Deepening of the voice
• Increased libido
• Irritability or mood changes
• Injection site reactions like pain, bruising, or infection where the pellets are inserted

Serious Side Effects

• Liver problems
• Increased risk of blood clots
• Cardiovascular issues
• Menstrual irregularities or cessation
• Clitoral enlargement The side effects of testosterone pellet therapy in females are dose-related, with higher doses causing more masculinizing effects, as noted in 1.

Monitoring and Precautions

Women using testosterone pellet therapy should have regular monitoring of testosterone levels, complete blood counts, and liver function tests, as suggested in 1. The use of testosterone pellets in females should be carefully considered, weighing the potential benefits against the risks of masculinizing side effects, which can be irreversible in some cases, as reported in 1.

From the Research

Side Effects of Testosterone Pellets in Females

• The use of testosterone pellets in females can lead to several side effects, including:
  • Mild and reversible acne and hirsutism 2
  • Changes to the lipid profile, although this is more commonly associated with oral testosterone rather than transdermal or pellet forms 2
• Long-term safety data on the use of testosterone pellets in females is limited, and there is a need for further studies to fully understand the potential risks and benefits 2, 3
• The use of testosterone pellets can cause supraphysiological testosterone levels, which is not recommended 3
• Other potential side effects of testosterone therapy in females include:
  • Breast cancer risk, although the data is mixed and more research is needed to fully understand this relationship 2, 4
  • Cardiovascular risks, although no adverse cardiovascular effects have been shown in short-term studies 2
  • Thromboembolic events, although the risk is not well defined 4
• It is essential to individualize testosterone therapy in postmenopausal women and weigh the potential risks and benefits 2
• Testosterone pellets are not a recommended form of testosterone therapy in females due to the risk of supraphysiological testosterone levels 3