There have been reports of shortages of testosterone cypionate injections in recent years. Testosterone cypionate is one of the most commonly prescribed forms of testosterone replacement therapy for men with low testosterone levels (a condition known as hypogonadism). Some key points about the testosterone cypionate shortage include:
- Demand has increased - As awareness and diagnosis of low testosterone has risen, the number of men using testosterone replacement therapy has gone up significantly. This rising demand has made supply issues more noticeable.
- Manufacturing and supply challenges - A limited number of pharmaceutical companies produce testosterone cypionate injections. Disruptions at any point in the supply chain can trigger shortages. Some companies have reported production delays and inability to acquire enough raw materials.
- Shortages tend to be regional - Different areas of the US can be impacted more severely than others. Rural areas seem to experience more frequent shortages. When supplies are limited, urban regions with large populations may get priority.
- Rationing and restrictions - To stretch limited supplies, pharmacies may ration testosterone cypionate. Men may get smaller doses or less frequent injections during shortages. New prescriptions may also face restrictions.
- Alternatives are available - For men facing difficulty obtaining their prescribed testosterone cypionate injections, alternatives like testosterone enanthate or topical gels/creams may be suitable options, at least temporarily until supply improves. But this requires coordination with your doctor.
What is being done to address the issue?
- The FDA is working with manufacturers to understand and resolve production issues. Approving additional manufacturing sources could also help improve supply reliability.
- Pharmacies and distributors are responding by temporarily allowing substitution with alternative dosage forms like topical when shortages occur.
- Ongoing monitoring of prescription rates and ordering patterns allows for better inventory management and shortage preparation.
Outlook for the future
Despite current shortages in some areas, widespread scarcity of testosterone cypionate is unlikely to continue long-term. Several factors point towards eventual improvement in supplies:
- New suppliers - Additional pharmaceutical companies are expected to start manufacturing testosterone cypionate over the next few years. This will increase overall production capacity and competition within the market.
- Increase in domestic production - More testosterone production within the US could limit issues with overseas supply chain disruption.
- Patient support programs - Pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies are launching financial assistance programs to help ensure continued access for patients with greatest need.
If you have been personally impacted by the testosterone cypionate shortage and are struggling to get your prescribed treatment, speak to your healthcare provider about safe alternative therapy options. Registering at
for availability updates and support programs can also help you stay informed and access treatments through any ongoing supply issues in your location. The physicians and staff at
New Beginnings HRT Clinic are fully equipped to guide you through any changes or interruptions in your testosterone replacement regimen while shortages persist. Reach out today to ensure continuity of your treatment plan.
