Testosterone enanthate is an injectable form of the hormone testosterone. It is an anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) used mainly to treat low testosterone levels in men.
Testosterone enanthate works by mimicking the effects of natural testosterone in the body. It helps stimulate muscle growth, increase bone density, boost red blood cell production, and enhance sex drive and performance.
Some key points about testosterone enanthate:
Why is Testosterone Enanthate Prescribed?
Testosterone enanthate is most commonly prescribed to treat low testosterone or hypogonadism in males. Signs and symptoms of low testosterone can include:
By restoring testosterone levels, enanthate can help reverse these symptoms.
In addition to hypogonadism treatment, testosterone enanthate might be prescribed to transgender men as part of masculinizing hormone therapy.
The drug does carry risks if misused or abused. Like other AAS, it can potentially cause side effects like acne, baldness, gynecomastia, testicular atrophy, and infertility with long-term use.
Is Testosterone Enanthate Legal?
When prescribed by a doctor for medical conditions like hypogonadism, yes, testosterone enanthate is legal. However, it is a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States. That means it has an accepted medical use but also carries abuse and dependence risks.
Using enanthate or other testosterone products without a valid prescription is considered illegal use and can result in fines or jail time. Unfortunately, illegal use of AAS is fairly common, especially among bodybuilders and athletes seeking to gain an unfair competitive advantage or aesthetic appeal.
In summary, testosterone enanthate is a potent but potentially risky male hormone injection. When used properly under medical supervision, however, it can effectively and safely treat diagnosed testosterone deficiencies. As with any medication, patient education is key to ensuring proper use and avoiding potential abuse.