Depo-Testosterone or testosterone cypionate received FDA marketing approval in 1953 and remains the standard testosterone replacement therapy. Typically injections of Depo-Testosterone must be repeated every 2-4 weeks with the average dose ranging from 50-400 mg depending on body size, medical indication and other health issues.

Available only as an intramuscular injection it remains a schedule 3 controlled substance in the same category as ketamine, vicodin and suboxone. Depo-Testosterone acts to support male sexual characteristics by its actions on the androgen receptor. Additionally it bulks tissue through its anabolic effects leading to increased muscle mass and bone growth.

Side effects associated with Depo-Testosterone continue as the subject of major controversy. Standard thought suggests the hormone may lead to an increase in the size of the prostate resulting in difficulty urinating. Additionally some claim it predisposes to prostate cancer, heart attacks and stroke.

Recent evidence indicates Depo-Testosterone may not only lack some of these adverse effects but actually leads to health benefits. The most recent information from a Kaiser study published in 2020 refutes many of the cardiovascular concerns. It even suggests testosterone supplements may reduce cardiovascular events by about 30%.

An exception to this may involve the sodium retaining effects of Depo-Testosterone. Among individuals with damaged hearts unable to pump adequate amounts of blood, heart failure may worsen with hormone therapy.

Reports from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the American Urological Association fail to demonstrate deterioration of prostate cancer in select survivors of the disease.