Testosterone, an androgen hormone produced in both men and women, plays an important role in the development of sex-specific features. When testosterone levels are normal, children enter into puberty, pass through adolescence and arrive at adulthood with healthy sexual functioning and fertility. Low testosterone levels, however, can delay puberty, alter menstrual cycles and cause infertility in either sex. Testosterone injections can boost blood levels to correct these issues, according to Daily Med.
Check the Drug
Testosterone preparations are dispensed in glass vials containing a clear solution. If the solution is discolored or contains visible particles, it's not safe to inject, says Drugs.com. It's important to read the vial label carefully so the right amount of solution is given to the right person.
Draw Up the Solution
The first time a vial of testosterone is used, it will have a disposable top cover. Underneath that cover is a rubber stopper that needs to be cleaned with an alcohol wipe before each use. Draw back on the plunger of the syringe to pull up an amount of air equal to the prescribed amount of the drug, insert the needle through the stopper and inject the air into the vial. Invert the vial and needle and pull back on the plunger to draw up the desired amount of the drug.
Locate the Injection Site
The ventrogluteal muscle on the right side of the buttock is the easiest location for lay people to administer a deep intramuscular injection, says Drugs.com. The person receiving the injection should be lying on her side, with her right hip up. Put the palm of your left hand on the top of her femur, or thigh bone, with your fingers aimed at her head and your thumb at her groin. Spread your index finger away from the other fingers to make a "V"; inside the "V" is the right spot for the injection.
Inject the Drug
Holding the syringe like you would a dart, gently but firmly push the needle at a 90-degree angle through the skin within the "V." Insert the needle deep into the muscle and pull back a little on the plunger to check placement. If blood comes up into the barrel of the syringe, you're in a blood vessel and should withdraw the syringe. If you don't see blood return, slowly push down on the plunger until all the drug has been injected.
Warning
Testosterone preparations like testosterone cypionate and testosterone enanthate are oil-based products. If the preparation is accidentally injected into a blood vessel instead of the muscle, it can go through the bloodstream to the lungs and cause a prolonged cough or respiratory distress, according to Drugs.com.
