Yo! So this is a bit of a controversial topic… but not really once we explain everything, lol.
What is subcutaneous? click on this link to a credible source of the definition of SUBCUTANEOUS.
With subQ injections, it’s usually with an insulin syringe and administered in stomach fat. The theory is that subcutaneous injections is that it makes the steroids last longer and with fewer side effects. However, the issue is that since it’s not directly injected into the muscles, it tends to linger for a while. What I mean is that after injection, you’ll be left with a lump of oil stuck under your skin. Not ideal. It takes a while to absorb. The theory for subcutaneous is that it has less estrogenic side effects, well this makes sense since less of the testosterone is being absorbed. You may as well inject a lower dosage IM if you want less estrogenic side effects.
Subcutaneous testosterone enanthate is a specific form of subcutaneous testosterone injection used in hormone replacement therapy, particularly for men with hypogonadism.
How Testosterone Injections Work
Testosterone injections work by introducing testosterone into the body, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream. The testosterone is then carried to various tissues and organs, where it exerts its effects. Testosterone injections can be administered intramuscularly (IM) or subcutaneously (SC). IM injections involve injecting testosterone into the muscle, while SC injections involve injecting testosterone into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of injection method depends on individual patient needs and preferences.
There are a lot better and safer ways to inject testosterone replacement therapy
Such as intramuscular injections, and the injection site such as the glute/hip. This is the most common and safest spot to do it. Injectable testosterone is absorbed efficiently through these methods, ensuring consistent testosterone levels. A lot of bodybuilders like to inject in their quads, one of the reasons being it’s a big muscle group. Another is that once they inject, they walk using their quads so the oil is moved about a lot more efficiently, which will prevent post-injection pain (PIP) mainly caused by UGL gear inflammation or the oil staying there- for example if you inject in your glutes then sit all day on the couch after this it will feel a more painful than going for a walk after it.
Disadvantages of subcutaneous injection
1. Slower Absorption for Some Compounds
While the slower absorption rate of subcutaneous injections can be beneficial for steady blood levels, it may not be ideal for all anabolic steroid compounds. Some steroids are oil-based, and when injected subcutaneously, they can sit in the fatty tissue for a longer period before being fully absorbed. This delayed release might result in inconsistent efficacy, particularly for users who seek faster-acting results. Subcutaneous testosterone enanthate delivered has a specific pharmacokinetic profile that affects its absorption rate, making it effective for both male hypogonadism and gender-affirming therapy.
2. Injection-Site Irritation and Lumps
Subcutaneous injections can lead to localized irritation, redness, or swelling. Sometimes, the oil-based steroids can form small lumps or nodules under the skin, called lipohypertrophy, especially if injections are done in the same spot repeatedly. These lumps can be unsightly and uncomfortable and may take time to dissipate.
3. Lower Volume Capacity
Subcutaneous injections are typically limited in volume compared to intramuscular injections. The subcutaneous tissue can’t absorb large volumes of fluid at once without causing significant discomfort or lump formation. This means that users may need to inject smaller amounts more frequently, which could be inconvenient for those who require higher doses.
4. Risk of Misplacement
If not administered properly, subcutaneous injections can be mistakenly injected into the muscle, known as an intramuscular injection, or, worse, into a blood vessel, increasing the risk of complications. Improper technique can also cause the steroid to be injected too close to the skin’s surface, leading to skin irritation or abscess formation. Precision in technique is essential to avoid these issues.
5. Potential for Sterile Abscesses
Subcutaneous injections, particularly with oil-based steroids, can sometimes result in sterile abscesses — hard lumps that form due to the body’s reaction to foreign substances, even though there is no infection. These abscesses can be painful and unsightly and may require medical attention if they don’t dissipate on their own.
6. Slower Onset of Action
For those using anabolic steroids for rapid performance or muscle-building gains, the slower release associated with subcutaneous injections might delay the onset of effects. Intramuscular injections, by contrast, often result in faster absorption and quicker effects, which may be preferred for certain steroids or performance goals. Additionally, the slower release of subcutaneous injections can lead to more stable serum T concentrations, potentially enhancing the overall effectiveness of the therapy by maintaining levels within the normal range.
7. Unconventional Method
The subcutaneous route for anabolic steroids is relatively new and not as widely studied or endorsed as the intramuscular route, which is the traditional method for steroid administration. This lack of widespread medical literature and standardization around subcutaneous injections means there is less guidance on optimal techniques, dosing, and troubleshooting of side effects.
8. Difficulty With Oil-Based Steroids
Many anabolic steroids are suspended in oil, and oil-based solutions are generally more viscous than water-based injections. This thickness can make them more difficult to inject subcutaneously, potentially leading to injection-site discomfort or slower absorption. Intramuscular injections may handle these thicker solutions better, as muscle tissue can absorb larger and denser volumes more efficiently.
9. Injection-site rotation is Crucial
Repeated injections in the same location can lead to tissue damage, scarring, or lipodystrophy (abnormal distribution of fat at the injection site). With subcutaneous injections, users need to be diligent about rotating sites, which may be challenging if they are inexperienced or unaware of the proper techniques for site rotation.
10. Psychological Barrier for Some
For individuals already accustomed to intramuscular injections, switching to subcutaneous injections may introduce a psychological barrier. The idea of injecting into fat may seem less effective or intimidating, leading to a lack of confidence in the method. Additionally, because it is still somewhat unconventional for anabolic steroids, users might feel skeptical about its overall efficacy and safety.
Advantages of subcutaneous injection
1. Reduced Pain and Discomfort
Subcutaneous injections typically involve smaller needles and less tissue trauma compared to intramuscular injections. The layer of fat under the skin is less dense and has fewer nerve endings, making subcutaneous injections generally less painful.
2. Lower Risk of Injection-Site Complications
Intramuscular injections can lead to muscle scarring, irritation, and other issues like abscesses. Subcutaneous injections reduce the likelihood of these complications because they avoid deeper tissue. They also pose less risk of hitting a nerve or blood vessel. Additionally, subcutaneous injections may have a lower impact on blood pressure compared to other methods.
3. Increased Convenience and Accessibility
The ease of self-administration is a big advantage. Subcutaneous injections can be administered at various locations (e.g., abdomen, thigh), and the process is typically simpler, which is especially useful for those who need regular injections. This also allows for greater independence compared to visiting a healthcare provider for intramuscular injections.
4. Smoother Absorption Rates
Subcutaneous injections allow for slower, more controlled absorption of anabolic steroids into the bloodstream. This steady release may help maintain more stable blood levels, reducing the peaks and troughs associated with intramuscular injections. Stable levels could reduce the risk of side effects like mood swings, energy crashes, or hormonal imbalances.
5. Potential for Smaller Doses
Because of the slower release and more consistent absorption of steroids via subcutaneous injection, some users report needing smaller or less frequent doses to achieve the same effect. This could lead to fewer injections over time.
6. Less Tissue Damage
Repeated intramuscular injections can cause muscle tissue damage over time, which is a concern for long-term steroid users. Subcutaneous injections cause less tissue trauma and may reduce the risk of developing fibrosis or scar tissue.
7. Lower Infection Risk
Subcutaneous injections involve smaller needles, which may lower the risk of infection compared to deeper intramuscular injections. Additionally, the fat tissue where subcutaneous injections are administered has a rich blood supply, which aids in faster healing.
However, it is important to monitor for potentially serious side effects during treatment, such as chest pain, and seek emergency treatment if such symptoms occur.
8. Less Visible Injection Marks
For bodybuilders and athletes who want to avoid visible injection marks or bruising on muscles, subcutaneous injections are often less noticeable since they don’t cause as much visible damage to the skin or muscles.
Patient Experience and Preference
Studies have shown that patients generally prefer subcutaneous testosterone injections over intramuscular injections due to their ease of administration, reduced discomfort, and lower risk of adverse reactions. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that 22 patients preferred SC injections over IM injections, citing reduced pain and discomfort as the primary reasons. Additionally, SC injections have been shown to result in more stable testosterone levels and reduced fluctuations in testosterone concentrations. However, it is essential to note that individual patient experiences and preferences may vary, and the choice of injection method should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Conclusion:
Subcutaneous injections offer several advantages. They can provide a safer, more convenient, and potentially more comfortable way to administer anabolic steroids for those who choose to use them. However, as with any injection method, proper hygiene, technique, and medical advice are crucial to minimize risks. While subcutaneous injections offer certain advantages, such as reduced pain and easier administration, they come with notable disadvantages as well. These include potential issues with slower absorption, limited volume capacity, site irritation, and the risk of improper technique. When considering subcutaneous injections for anabolic steroids, users should weigh these pros and cons carefully. This is why a 1-inch needle IM injection is the most common and safest administration, usually in the hips and glutes.
