TRT injections vs gels vs oral: what clinics offer
TRT comes in four main forms in the UK. Clinics differ in what they default to — the choice affects cost, steadiness and daily routine.
Injections
The most prescribed form in the UK (Manual states 98% of its patients inject). Options include testosterone cypionate/enanthate 1–3× per week (self-injected subcutaneously) and longer-acting preparations given at clinics. Steadiest levels, cheapest per dose, requires needles and storage.
- Levels: steady with frequent small doses.
- Cost: inside the £59.99–£110/month subscription band at telehealth providers.
Gels/topicals
Daily application to shoulders/arms (Manual topical £99.99–£109.99/month). No needles; transfer risk to partners/children (wash hands, cover site); absorption varies.
- Levels: mimic the natural dip-and-peak less well; daily routine essential.
Oral capsules
Testosterone undecanoate capsules (Manual oral from £59.99). Dosed 2×/day with fat-containing meals.
Implants and long-acting injections
Clinic-administered pellets or 10–14-week injections (less common at the clinics in our directory; used in NHS endocrinology).
What actually differs at the clinics in our directory
- Manual publishes all three self-administered routes with prices.
- Optimale's subscription covers injectable or topical with reviews included.
- NHS prescribing tends toward gels or long-acting injections.
Questions to ask any clinic
- Which form fits my lifestyle and dose needs?
- What monitoring does this form require (haematocrit climbs faster on injectables)?
- What happens if my levels overshoot — is titration included?
See also: costs explained and risks and monitoring.
Information directory — medically reviewed sources cited per page · Source-checked 2026-10-09 · Independent information directory — not medical advice.