What medications are used for TRT?
Last updated: January 2026
Quick Answer
The most common TRT medication is testosterone cypionate (weekly or biweekly injection). Other options include testosterone enanthate, testosterone propionate, HCG (for fertility preservation), enclomiphene (oral SERM to boost natural production), and anastrozole (aromatase inhibitor for estrogen management).
What medications are used for TRT
The most common TRT medication is testosterone cypionate (weekly or biweekly injection). Other options include testosterone enanthate, testosterone propionate, HCG (for fertility preservation), enclomiphene (oral SERM to boost natural production), and anastrozole (aromatase inhibitor for estrogen management).
Understanding TRT medications helps you have informed conversations with your provider about your treatment protocol. Testosterone cypionate is the most commonly prescribed form, but other medications play important supportive roles.
Key Facts
- Testosterone cypionate is the gold standard for TRT in the US
- HCG helps preserve testicular function and fertility during TRT
- Anastrozole manages estrogen levels when they rise too high
- Enclomiphene is an alternative that boosts natural testosterone production
- Most protocols include testosterone plus one or more ancillary medications
Related Questions
What is the difference between testosterone cypionate and enanthate?
Testosterone cypionate and enanthate are nearly identical. Cypionate has a slightly longer half-life (8 days vs 7 days) and is more commonly prescribed in the US, while enanthate is more common in Europe. Both are injected weekly, produce similar blood levels, and have the same effectiveness and side effect profile.
What is HCG and why is it used with TRT?
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) mimics luteinizing hormone to keep the testes functioning during TRT. Without HCG, the testes shrink and stop producing sperm because exogenous testosterone shuts down natural production. HCG preserves testicular size, fertility, and intratesticular testosterone.