HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE RESEARCH & NEWS

Testosterone and Prostate Health

Testosterone is not Linked to Increased Risk of Prostate Cancer

Historically, many scientists have hypothesized that Testosterone contributes directly to the development of Prostate Cancer in correlation with age. There are even a minority of doctors which have utilized castration as a means to prevent Prostate Cancer. New research suggests that the link between Testosterone and Prostate Cancer is weaker than once believed, and there is a significant chance that Testosterone has absolutely no link to the development of Prostate Cancer.

What we are actually learning now is that Testosterone is vitally important for the optimal function of the Prostate.

Testosterone Levels Fade with Age

There is a major problem, however. The older that we get, the less Testosterone that men produce. Generally, Testosterone Levels remain high beginning at puberty and extending forward to the late twenties. After this period of optimal hormone production, however, our bodies start to produce many vital hormones, including Testosterone and Human Growth Hormone, less efficiently.

Beginning in the thirties, Testosterone Levels start to drop at a slow and steady rate, hindering our health and preventing us from maintaining our health and vitality. Although medical professionals have long recognized that Testosterone Production drops with age, the mechanisms for that decline have largely been a mystery.

What Causes Testosterone Deficiency?

In recent years, however, scientists are starting to more fully understand the mechanisms which cause Testosterone Secretion to decline. Today, endocrinologists have discovered that there is a certain enzyme which seems to be primarily responsible for Age-Related Testosterone Deficiency, known as 5-Alpha Reductase. It appears that as we get older, out bodies start to produce too much of this hormone, limiting the body's ability to maintain healthy Testosterone Levels.

5-Alpha Reductase is a hormone which actually has the capability to deconstruct Testosterone, converting it into a derivative hormone known as Dihydrotestosterone. Increased levels of Dihydrotestosterone are associated with numerous medical afflictions that were once hypothesized to be the result of Testosterone, including cancer, hair loss, prostate enlargement, and bladder control issues.

In addition to these internal causes of Testosterone Deficiency, it appears that there are many chemicals that contribute to Testosterone Deficiency as well. These chemicals have the ability to limit Testosterone Production even at an early age when Testosterone Production is supposed to be at its peak. Because of certain chemical contaminations, adolescents are even at risk of Testosterone Deficiency.

There is new evidence that certain Statin Drugs (used to treat abnormally high cholesterol) suppress the body's ability to produce Testosterone efficiently. Also, we are now learning that there are certain herbicides which affect the body's ability to produce Testosterone. The most common of these is a chemical known as gly-phosphate, which has been linked to numerous other medical issues as well.

How to Combat Age-Related Testosterone Deficiency

As we discussed earlier, Testosterone levels naturally decline as a result of the aging process. There are actually numerous ways that you can slow down this Testosterone Decline and safeguard yourself deeper into the lifespan. The following are ways that you can help maintain healthier Testosterone Levels:

The Hormone Replacement Method

Hormone Replacement Therapy, under the advice and guidance of a medical professional, is an excellent way to treat Age-Related Testosterone Deficiency.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, then you may be dealing with Testosterone Deficiency:

• Reduced Libido and Disinterest in Sex

• Inability to Produce or Maintain a Full Erection

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Cognitive Issues Related to Short Term and Working Memory

• Accumulation of Body Fat

• Loss of Muscle Mass

• Loss of Bone Mineral Density

A qualified physician can provide the blood tests necessary to properly diagnose Testosterone Deficiency. Once it has been determined that you are experiencing Low-T, there are multiple ways that you can treat your medical issue. The most direct way to treat Low-T is by taking supplemental Testosterone.

There are many forms of effective Testosterone Replacement Therapy, including Testosterone Creams, Testosterone Sprays, Testosterone Dermal Implants, and even Testosterone Injections. These forms of Testosterone Treatment supplement the body's own production with Bio-Identical Testosterone in order to help maintain a more optimal level of Homone Balance, encouraging the body to perform in a higher and more efficient state.

Avoid Oral Testosterone

Although there are multiple effective ways to provide Testosterone Replacement, it is important to note that taking Testosterone orally will either be minimally effective or completely ineffective. Testosterone is too complex to survive the digestive fluids of the stomach, and the Testosterone that you put in your mouth will not be the same as the amino acids which are absorbed into your system.

DHEA Hormone Replacement Therapy

There are other potential alternatives to Testosterone Replacement Therapy, especially if you are dealing with relatively minor levels of Testosterone Deficiency. One hormone that provides benefits for many people is known as DHEA. DHEA is a Bio-Identical Hormone which is actually a direct precursor to naturally produced Testosterone. DHEA is released by the adrenal glands, which are located just above your kidneys. DHEA is responsible for the proper synthesis of a number of hormones, including Testosterone.

Healthy production of DHEA is heavily correlated with age. Before puberty, the adrenal glands release a minimal amount of this hormone, but as puberty takes place, the body begins to produce high levels of DHEA, which leads directly to an influx of Testosterone Production. Production of DHEA peaks during the late teens and twenties, and begins to fall sometime between the late twenties and early thirties.

The decline is gradual, but becomes more significant the older that you get. The adrenal glands are also responsible for the production of other hormones, one of which is Cortisone. Although Cortisone is a natural and necessary hormone, the body begins to produce it in greater and greater amounts throughout life.

Cortisol Prevents DHEA Production

The problem here is that DHEA and Cortisol are created from the same component parts, and the more Cortisol that the Adrenal Glands produce, the less DHEA, and thus, the less Testosterone, that is created. Cortisol and DHEA are both synthesized using the substrate pregnenolone, and Cortisol production slowly hordes this hormone vital to Testosterone production.

Although the natural aging process increases Cortisol production, factors such as emotional stress, obesity, chronic pain, and even the over-consumption of gluten products can increase Cortisol levels unnecessarily.

Use DHEA Only with a Doctor's Permission

Although it is possible to purchase DHEA Over the Counter, it is important that you only utilize DHEA under the recommendation of a physician. In order to maximize the benefits, it is necessary that you have a responsible physician that can monitor your hormone levels and recommend optimal hormone intake. Although it is possible to take DHEA by mouth, ingestion still limits the effectiveness of the hormone.

How is DHEA Most Effectively Delivered?

DHEA is most effectively administered via the mucous membranes of the rectum or the vagina, and it can help both sexes maintain healthy hormone production by providing the building blocks of Testosterone and Estrogen. It can also be delivered via the skin, but it's harder to apply a consistent dose. Patients with significant Testosterone Deficiency will likely still benefit from direct Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy, but DHEA is also a valuable option for a certain subset of patients.

The Prostate Cancer-Testosterone Myth and Saw Palmetto

As men grow older, they become increasingly at risk of developing a disorder known as Prostate Hyperplasia. This means that the prostate begins to grow abnormally large. This disorder most notably affects men that are over the age of sixty, and the risk continues to increase with continuing age. Although in the past, it was hypothesized that Testosterone and Prostate Cancer and Prostate Enlargement were linked, it appears in retrospect that this is not the case.

Rather than Testosterone, it seems that enhanced levels of Estrogen and DHT are responsible for these risks. Estrogen and DHT are created when Testosterone is maintained inappropriately by the body, causing it to break down into these alternative hormones.

There are two types of drugs which primarily treat Prostate Enlargement, and both of these treatments involve unhealthy and potentially dangerous side-effects:

5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors for Prostate Enlargement

The most commonly prescribed forms of this medication are Proscar and Avodart. These drugs work by limiting the conversion of Testosterone into DHT. Although this can lead to an increase in Testosterone Levels, it does nothing to prevent Testosterone from converting into Estradiol and other Estrogen compounds.

For this reason, these medications increase the risk of prostate cancer even though they do effectively treat prostate enlargement.

Alpha Blockers for Prostate Enlargement

Alpha Blockers treat the symptoms of prostate enlargement, but do not solve the root causes. Alpha Blockers include Rapaflow, Cardura, Hytrin, and Flomax. These drugs work by helping the smooth muscles of the bladder and prostate relax, making it easier to urinate. Although they are very effective, they only hide the underlying issues related to Prostate Enlargement, without treating the disorder itself.

Saw Palmetto for Prostate Enlargement and Healthy Testosterone Production

Rather than turn to these synthetic medications, an option for many patients is completely natural: Saw Palmetto. There are more than one hundred studies that have been conducted regarding the efficacy of Saw Palmetto, and there is evidence that Saw Palmetto can relieve the symptoms of Prostate Enlargement without leading to adverse symptoms.

In addition to this, there is some evidence that Saw Palmetto Capsules can reduce the risk of Prostate Cancer as well. Although in the past, studies have provided mixed results in regard to Saw Palmetto Capsules, there is strong new evidence that the effectiveness of treatment depends upon the form of Saw Palmetto used as well as the way that it is administered.

Choose the Right Form of Saw Palmetto

There are many supplements which are manufactured using an ineffective plant formulation. When used effectively, Saw Palmetto can provide significant benefits. One physician tells us that for him, the most trusted form of Saw Palmetto is a form of Saw Palmetto Oil extracted usinga Super-Critical Carbon Dioxide Extraction echnique.

This form of Saw Palmetto will be an oil which is colored a deep green. It is also important to note that Saw Palmetto is soluble in fat rather than water, so it is absorbed most effectively when eaten with a food that contains fat, such as eggs.

Saw Palmetto and Astaxanthin

New research also shows that combining the Anti-Oxidant Astaxanthin with Saw Palmetto Oil can increase the benefits of both supplements. A study in 2009 showed that combining these two supplements had a cumulative effect, both limiting production of Estrogen and DHT while also boosting natural Testosterone Levels.

Natural sources of Astaxanthin include Krill Oil, Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Shellfish. It is also present in many vegetables, including Red Peppers and Carrots.

In addition to combining these two supplements, you can also choose foods and supplements which are high in aromatase-inhibitors which help prevent Testosterone from converting into Estrogen. These foods include Grape Seed Extract, Nettles, and White Button Mushrooms.

A Healthy Prostate is Important to a Long and Healthy Life

If you are growing older and are concerned with your prostate health, use the information in this article to inform yourself, and ask the opinion of a qualified medical professional. Be a proactive patient and do your part in avoiding prostate problems later in life!

Axiron Testosterone Underarm Spray

There are many effective forms of Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy. Originally, Testosterone Treatments were only available via injection, but today, there are various forms of therapy available, including Testosterone Gels, Testosterone Creams, and Testosterone Dermal Implants.

The newest approved form of treatment, however, is the Testosterone Spray. The most popular form of Testosterone Spray available today is Axiron, patented and manufactured by Eli Lilly.

Axiron Advertisements are Everywhere

If you've turned on the television in recent months, advertisements for Axiron Testosterone Sprays are probably your primary exposure to Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy on Television, as Eli Lilly has made large ad buys on ESPN and various news stations.

This article will discuss some specific information related to Axiron Testosterone Therapy, as well as discuss some general information about Testosterone Deficiency and Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy.

Testosterone Deficiency Much More Common than Believed in the Past

Testosterone Sprays are intended for the treatment of Testosterone Deficiency in males over the age of eighteen. Although in the past, Testosterone Deficiency was considered to affect only a small portion of the male population of the United States, today, evidence suggests that the number of people who deal with issues related to Testosterone Deficiency is actually quite a bit larger than previously supposed.

New studies suggest that as many as thirteen million men 35 or older deal with the effects of Low-T. Axiron was designed completely with these patients in mind.

Low-T Symptoms

Low-T is associated with numerous symptoms which have a significant effect on both health and vitality. There are numerous symptoms associated with Testosterone Deficiency, including:

Fatigue - Testosterone Deficiency has been shown to drain energy significantly, affecting men both during exercise and during their everyday life. It reduces a man's capacity for physical activity, and it has a quantifiable effect on cognitive ability and overall mental toughness.

Loss of Muscle Mass - Testosterone is the reason why men have larger and stronger muscles than women. Low-T reduces the effectiveness of exercise, slowing the rate of muscle development and contributing to muscle atrophy in the event of insufficient exercise.

Weight Gain - Because of the affect that Testosterone Deficiency has on muscle mass and energy level, individuals with Low-T usually experience weight gain. Obesity makes Testosterone Deficiency worse, because fat cells have the ability to convert Testosterone into Cortisol and Estrogen, both of which increase the risk of numerous health issues when present in the human body over time at levels which are too high.

Depression - In recent years, scientists have discovered that Low-T is causally linked to increased risk of feelings of depression and anxiety in males. In the same way that Cortisol inhibits weight loss and encourages weight gain, it also increases feelings of anxiety and depression. In addition to this, there is evidence that Testosterone Deficiency has a direct effect on the balance of psychological hormones such as dopamine.

Osteoporosis - Testosterone plays a central role in bone health, and patients that have Low-Testosterone are at increased risk of Osteoporosis later in life. Osteoporosis affects women faster than men, because they do not release as much Testosterone, causing their skeletal systems to have a lower Bone Mineral Density than men. Men that experience Testosterone Deficiency have a greatly increased risk of Osteoporosis than other men, however.

Loss of Sex Drive - Testosterone is the most important hormone in regard to sexual desire in both men and women. In men, Low T-Levels directly correlate with decreased interest and satisfaction in sex. The lower the Testosterone Levels, the more likely that a man will experience sexual dissatisfaction.

Erectile Dysfunction - As Testosterone Deficiency continues to become more severe, it begins to lead to physiological issues which prevent satisfying sexual activity. Sexual desire encourages the enhanced release of Testosterone, which sets off a chain reaction which leads to the male erection. Low-T Levels lead to soft erections, or even an inability to experience erection at all. Also, Testosterone Deficiency can even prevent a man from climaxing.

Reduction in Body Hair - Although this is not a debilitating symptom in any way, shape or form, the loss of hair (outside of male-pattern baldness) is a clear-cut symptoms of Low-T. Testosterone encourages the growth of hair on the face and body that is associated with masculinity.

How Does Axiron Work?

Although Testosterone cannot survive the process of ingestion, there are a number of other ways that Testosterone can be delivered to the human body. In the early years of Testosterone Replacement, Testosterone could only be delivered via injection. Most of these injections were delivered Intramuscularly. And injections are still delivered in the same way this day.

Later, scientists discovered that Testosterone could actually be absorbed into the skin, leading to new forms of Testosterone Treatment, such as Testosterone Gels, Testosterone Patches, and Even Testosterone Dermal Implants.

Axiron represents the newest in this long line of Testosterone Treatment Evolution. Axiron Testosterone Replacement Therapy is delivered via spray. Bio-Identical Testosterone is combined with harmless ingredients which increase the skin's ability to absorb Testosterone quickly and effectively.

Axiron has been shown to be seventy percent effective in completely restoring healthy levels of Testosterone, and an even greater percentage experience at least a significant increase in Testosterone Levels.

How Do I Apply Axiron?

Axiron is a topical spray, delivered using an applicator cup. Axiron is delivered by pumping a trigger on the top of the bottle, which releases a uniform amount of medication per spray. The spray is delivered into the applicator cup and rubbed into the skin. the applicator cup is important because it ensures that the medication is delivered directly to the underarm and does not make contact with other parts of the body, such as the hands.

Axiron is described generally in four different dosages: 30 ml, 60 ml, 90 ml, and 120 ml. Each pump sprays out 30mg of Axiron. The Testosterone Spray is administered once daily, recommended in the mornings.

Axiron is intended to be administered to the armpit. This area is also known scientifically as the Axilla, hence the name, Axiron. Axiron is intended to be delivered beneath the arm for a number of reasons.

This area of the body has dense capillaries, and it absorbs medication quickly and effectively. The underarm is also ideal, because it reduces the risk of accidentally contacting others with the medication, which is incredibly important.

It is also important to avoid contact with the genitals with Axiron, because direct exposure of the Testes can increase the risk of reduced Testicular function and side-effects such as reduced sperm count.

After delivering Axiron Spray, it is important to wash your hands to avoid accidentally contacting others with the medication. After Axiron is applied, it is vital to keep the area covered until you have bathed or washed the residue from the underarm.

Is It Okay to Use Deodorant after Applying Axiron?

Axiron Testosterone Spray absorbs into the skin in a matter of minutes. After the Testosterone has been effectively absorbed into the skin, it is safe to apply antiperspirants and deodorants, and they will have no effect upon treatment quality.

How Long Should I Leave Axiron on before Showering?

It is recommended to wait at least two hours after applying Axiron before engaging in any activity such as bathing or swimming. This ensures that the maximum amount of Testosterone is delivered to the body, although most of the medication will be absorbed in a matter of minutes.

Axiron Features Bio-Identical Testosterone

Biologically Identical Testosterone is the only active ingredient in Axiron Testosterone Spray. The Testosterone used in Axiron Treatments is exactly the same as the Testosterone secreted by the human body.

In some forms of Testosterone, like Testosterone Injections, the hormone is molecularly bonded to compounds which slow down the release of Testosterone in the body.

Testosterone Injections like Testosterone Proprionate and Testosterone Cypionate are bonded to ester compounds, so that the Testosterone contained within the injections releases into the body slowly over an extended period of time, decreasing the frequency of injections needed to restore Testosterone Balance.

What Are the Benefits of Axiron Testosterone Therapy?

Increased Sex Drive

Testosterone Replacement Therapy with Axiron has been proven to restore libido in most patients that suffer from Testosterone Deficiency. By increasing the amount of Free Testosterone in the body, Axiron restores sexual interest and can restore romance to your relationship.

Restored Sexual Function

For men that experience erectile dysfunction as a result of Low-T Levels, Axiron Topical Spray can encourage healthy sexual function by restoring the hormone balance which allows the body to become sufficiently prepared for satisfying sexual activity.

Improved Psychological Profile

Many men that experience depression experience not because of an imbalance which is psychological in nature, but because their imbalance of Testosterone is having an effect on other areas of healthy function. For men that experience psychological issues as a result of Low-T, Axiron can encourage a healthier outlook on life.

Increased Energy

Testosterone Hormone Replacement with Axiron can increase metabolism and boost energy. By restoring healthy energy levels, it helps you get through the day easier without relying so heavily on caffeine or giving up on things that you enjoy because you find yourself physically and emotionally drained after a long day or week.

Stronger Bones

Axiron Testosterone Restoration can reduce the risk of Osteoporosis and other bone issues later in life. Restoring optimal Testosterone Levels in the body sustains healthy bone remodeling and allows bones to retain their strength and integrity later into the lifespan. By tackling Low-T early, you can help prevent the frailty associated with aging.

Healthier Sleeping Habits

Because Testosterone plays a central role in keeping Cortisol Levels in check, Testosterone Replacement Therapy can help men with Testosterone Deficiency sleep more soundly, both increasing their natural production of Testosterone and limiting stress and health issues associated with elevated Cortisol Levels.

Who Shouldn't Take Axiron?

• Patients with Breast, Testicular, or Prostate Cancer - Although Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy does not cause cause cancer, it can exacerbate these types of cancer.

• Women - It is important to make sure that women do not touch the administration site or accidentally make contact with Axiron Spray. In women, Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy can lead to physiological changes such as hair growth, reduction in breast size, and changes in figure.

• Boys and Girls Under the Age of Eighteen - Axiron Testosterone is not indicated for patients under the age of eighteen. In young boys, Testosterone Exposure can actually trigger early puberty.

What Are the Potential Side-Effects of Axiron?

• Headache

• Acne

• Increased Red Blood Cell Count

• Increased Hair Growth

• Breast Tenderness

• Skin Irritation

• Issues with Urination

• Fluid Retention

• Nausea

• Erections that Last Longer than Normal

These side-effects are generally related to the size of the dose that you receive, and these symptoms can be controlled simply by adjusting the dose..

Is Axiron Right for You?

Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy is a revolutionary form of hormone treatment for men that are dealing with life-changing issues related to Testosterone Deficiency and Hypogonadism. Testosterone Treatments aren't for everyone, but for the vast majority of people, it is safe and effective.

If you are interested in Axiron, or would like to learn about any other form of Hormone Replacement Therapy such as HGH Hormone Replacement Therapy, Sermorelin Acetate Therapy, or HCG Weight Loss Therapy, we encourage you to contact us as the Conscious Evolution Institute today!

Intramuscular Injection Information and Procedures

Both Testosterone and Human Growth Hormone Replacement Therapy can be delivered through injection. Although Testosterone can be delivered in multiple ways, including patch, spray, cream, and dermal implant, many people prefer to deliver the hormone via injection.

Even though both HGH and Testosterone can be administered using a needle, they are injected in different ways. Whereas HGH is injected beneath the skin using an insulin needle, Testosterone is delivered directly into the muscle using a method known as Intramuscular Injection.

This article will more fully explain Intramuscular Injections, and it will also describe the actual protocol used for injection.

Why Do We Deliver Some Medicines Intramuscularly?

Intramuscular Injections are Safer

There are many reasons why some medications are delivered Intramuscularly, as compared to Intravenously or Subcutaneously. In comparison to Intravenous Injections, Intramuscular Injections are considered safer than Intravenous Injections.

Intramuscular Injections are Easier

In addition to this, Intramuscular Injections are much easier to perform than Intravenous Injections. With an Intravenous Injection, it is necessary to target and hit a vein in order to deliver the medication. This is easier for some patients than others. Some patients have deeper veins which are harder to target, and others have rolling veins, or veins that shift as the needle pierces the skin, making it hard to actually find the vein with a needle.

Intravenous Injections can Cause Damage

Intravenous Injections can also damage the veins, whereas muscle fibers are constructed in a way where the damage caused by an injection is negligible. Both Intramuscular and Subcutaneous Injections are easier and safer to perform than Intravenous Injections. Intravenous Injections are generally preferred for drugs which "drip" into the system, meaning that they supply a slow and constant supply of medication into the blood stream.

Intramuscular Injections are Fast Acting, but Release Can Be Controlled

Intramuscular Injections act faster than Subcutaneous Injections, but still deliver the medication to the body over the course of a number of hours. Many drugs used via Intramuscular Injection, like Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy, contain ester compounds in order to slow the release of medication into the bloodstream. Ester compounds have relatively long half-lives, and release Testosterone slowly over time.

Some Testosterone Esters break down completely over a relatively brief period of time-only a few days. Other Testosterone Esters, like Testosterone Cypionate and Testosterone Enanthate, take one-to-two weeks to release the entire dose into the blood stream. This is one reason why many patients choose Testosterone Injections over less invasive methods. Most popular Testosterone Shots only have to be delivered every week or two, whereas most other forms must be applied on a daily basis. Testosterone Dermal Implants deliver Testosterone for an even longer period of time, but this form of treatment is much newer and less popular than other forms.

Do Intramuscular Injections Hurt?

The pain associated with injection is considered slightly greater than the pain associated with Intravenous Injection, but the majority of users find the pain tolerable and quite bearable.

Where are Intramuscular Injections Delivered?

Intramuscular Injections are delivered into muscle tissue that is just beneath the Subcutaneous layer underneath the skin. This muscle tissue is known as Striated tissue.

What Size of Needle is Used for Intramuscular Injection?

The needles used for Intramuscular injection are slightly larger than those used from Subcutaneous injection. The needles are usually 1-1.5 inches in length and gauge between 19 and 22. There are certain muscles that contain more striated muscle tissue than others, and these are considered the ideal location to perform Intramuscular Injection. These muscles are the muscles of the thigh (vastus lateralis), the upper arm (deltoids), and the buttocks (gluteal).

The gauge and length of the needle depends upon the amount of fat at the injection site. Individuals that have higher levels of body fat need longer needles than those that don't. In the case that the needle is not long enough to pierce into the striated muscle tissue, the medication will be delivered into adipose fat tissue rather than the intended muscle.

This is a more significant issue with women than for men, because women biologically produce higher levels of fat than men. Injections that are delivered into the body-fat are known as Intralipomatous Injections. If injections are accidentally delivered into fatty tissue, this has the potential to severely restrict the ability of medication to release into the body quickly and effectively, because there are very few veins in fat tissue, and this slows down the dispersion of the medication.

Rotating injection Sites with Intramuscular Injections

When patients are required to undergo multiple Intramuscular Injections over a certain period of time, it is vitally important to change injections sites with every subsequent shot. Testosterone Injections are an example of a medical therapy which requires multiple shots ranging generally from four per week to once every two weeks. Repeatedly performing injections into the same site can damage muscle tissue, and cause skin tissue to weaken and pit as well.

Dosage Volumes with Intramuscular Injection

Like Subcutaneous Injections, Intramuscular Injections are intended for relatively small doses of medication, although muscle tissue can effectively absorb and distribute a higher volume of medication without causing and major issues. Subcutaneous Injections max out at a volume of 2 milliliters no matter where the shot is administered. For Intramuscular Injection, the maximum dosage depends on the size and location of the muscle which is chosen for injection.

Some muscles can accept less medication than others. The thighs and deltoids, for example, can only intake around two milliliters of medication, but the glutes can safely tolerate up to five milliliters of medication. Intramuscular injections are generally reserved for strong and potent medications and treatments, such as Sermorelin Acetate Therapy and Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy for this reason.

What Areas Should I Avoid When Injecting Intramuscularly?

When attempting to deliver your Intramuscular Medication, there are certain things you want to avoid. It is important to deliver the injection far away from any blood vessels and major nerves. If a needle clips a nerve, this will be very painful, and it will also do damage to the nerve. Nicking a blood vessel is bad because Intramuscular Injections are not intended for Intravenous application, and many intramuscular medications can actually be dangerous if they are injected into a vein. Testosterone Injections, for example, are delivered via oil solutions so that they soak more readily into muscle tissue, but if oil directly enters the blood stream, this can cause dangerous cardiovascular issues such as embolism or blockage.

Oil bubbles act just like air bubbles or other physical obstructions in the blood stream. It is incredibly easy to avoid this, however, because you will know if you hit a vein because blood will enter the syringe when you pull the plunger back. This process is known as aspiration.

You should also avoid any area of the skin which is irregular or damaged. Delivering an injection through a patch of skin that is infected can greatly increase the chance that you will experience a blood infection. You should also avoid scarred or irritated skin as well.

Side-Effects of Intramuscular Injection

If you experience any of the following issues as a result of Intramuscular Injection, discuss them with your doctor:

• Scar Formation Can be avoided by rotating injection sites properly and performing injections carefully

• Skin Sloughing Can be avoided by rotating injection sites properly

• Hematoma Can be avoided by insuring that injections are not delivered into veins

• Embolism Can be avoided by insuring that injections are not delivered into veins

• Cysts Injecting too close too nerves can lead to cyst formation

• Abcesses Abcesses can occur as a result of infection. Always carefully sterilize all equipment, wash hands thoroughly, and clean the injection site

Why Choose Intramuscular Injections Over Intravenous Injections?

Although Intravenous Injections are the only choice for delivering large amounts of medication very quickly, Intramuscular Injections are ideal for delivering a small to moderate amount of medication over an extended period of time. One reason why this is so is because Intramuscular Injections are released slowly by the muscle tissue into the blood supply.

When an Intramuscular Injection is delivered, it forms a deposit in the muscle tissue known as a Depot. This pocket of medication within the muscle tissue drains slowly into the blood stream over time. Absorption rates depend upon multiple physiological factors, including circulation to the muscle, the depth at which the medication was injected, the type of drug formulation, and the amount of exercise that the muscle receives.

How Formulations Affect Absorption

Intramuscular Injections are very versatile because they can be formulated to release into the body at various different rates. Water/Saline Solutions are metabolized by the body at the fastest rate. Oil solutions take much longer to release into the body.

In addition to this, medications can be designed as colloids or suspensions in either oil or water formulations in order to further increase absorption rate. Drugs can also be chemically combined with various forms of salt in order to decrease solubility. This works exceptionally well within oil solutions, because oil absorbs salt very slowly.

Drugs like Testosterone Cypionate and Testosterone Proprionate are attached to ester compounds so that they are released slowly over an extended period of time. Esters are very effective at providing a large number of dispersion rates, because Esters Dissolve from their host into the blood stream at a rate which is specifically correlated with the number of carbon molecules attached to the ester.

This means that Bio-Identical Testosterone can be released into the blood stream over the course of a day or over the course of two weeks simply as a result of the size of the ester molecule.

What Type of Medications Are Delivered Intramuscularly?

There are various forms of medication that are delivered via the Intramuscular route, including:

• Haldol

• Ativan

• Morphine

• Codeine

There are also many nutrients and hormones that are delivered via Intramuscular Injection:

• Progesterone

• Testosterone

• HCG

• Vitamin B12

• Plasma Injections

Many forms of vaccinations are delivered Intramuscularly. Including:

• Flu Vaccines

• Rabies Shots

• Hepatitis A Vaccinations

• HPV Innoculations

How To Perform an Intramuscular Injection

There are a different set of guidelines for exactly how to deliver an Intramuscular Injection, dependent upon the muscle that you will inject the medication. Some muscles may require you to stretch the skin and bunch the muscle, whereas other locations may require you to stretch both the muscle and the skin. There are some rules that are universal, however:

• Always wash your hands thoroughly before injection.

• If someone else is delivering the injection, they should wear gloves under any circumstances.

• Always disinfect the space in which you will perform the injection.

• Always clean the injection site prior to injection.

• Never use medication which is out of date.

• Always store medications properly.

• Administer the injection into relaxed muscle to maximize effectiveness and minimize pain.

• Always use a needle that is of a length appropriate to the injection site.

• Never let the tip of the needle make unnecessary contact.

• When drawing medication, always release any air trapped within the needle by turning it upwards, tapping the syringe, and pressing the air out with the plunger until all bubbles are released. Injecting even a single bubble of air is very dangerous and can cause numerous complications.

• Aspirate the needle slightly before injection to insure that you have not hit a vein. If you have, you will have to adjust the injection site.

• Always dispose of needles in an approved SHARPS container. Used needles are biohazardous waste and must be treated with extreme caution and care.

Intramuscular Injection into the Deltoid:

Deltoid Injections must be delivered by a second party, because it requires two hands to deliver the injection. This injection-site is generally utilized for vaccinations and medications which cause little irritation. This location is intended for small amounts of medication ranging from 1-2 milliliters in volume. For patients that have very low muscle mass, Deltoid Injections may not be an option.

To choose an appropriate location for Deltoid Injection, start at the bone of the shoulder and move about an inch and a half beneath the process. This muscle is triangular in shape, with its widest portion at the top of the muscle. Inject into an area at or near the thickest part of the muscle, which is in the center of the triangle.

It is important to inject in the central portion of the muscle, because the Radial Nerve and Brachial Artery are located just on the outer edge of the Deltoids.

For this location, stretch out the skin and grip down around the muscle, squeeze your fingers together so that the skin remains tight, but you have squeezed the muscle. Insert the needle into the muscle at a 90 degree angle.

Intramuscular Injection into the top of the Thigh (Vastus Laterus):

This location disperses medication quicker then the buttocks, but slower than the deltoids. The appropriate location to inject into the top of the thigh is between one hand-width beneath the groin and one hand-width above the knee. In this window, choose a location near the thickest part of the muscle.

Thigh injections are often preferred by individuals that self-inject, because it is easy to access the thigh muscle from either a prone or sitting position.

Stretch the skin tightly in order to reduce the distance that the needle must travel. Inset the needle at a right angle to the leg, directly into the muscle. At this location, you can deliver up to two milliliters of medication per injection.

Intramuscular Injection into the Hip (Ventrogluteal):

The Ventrogluteal site is widely considered to be the best location to deliver an intramuscular injection, either via self-administration or via the assistance of a second party. This location represents the thickest portion of the glutes, as this area includes both the Gluteus minimus and the Gluteus medius. This area also has some the thinnest layer of fat tissue among anywhere in the gluteal region. It is also the safest area to deliver injection, because there are no veins or nerves in range of the needle in this area, so you are primarily attempting to avoid bone. Using this injection site, it is safe to deliver up to two milliliters of medication.

Locate the outer protrusion of the upper femur, known as the prochanter. Then locate the protrusion of the hip bone, known as the Iliac Crest. Move your hand forward until you reach the point of the crest furthest from the center. This is known as the Anterior Iliac Crest. You will deliver the injection at a point equidistant from both of these protrusions. Laterally, the injection site will be located halfway between the center of the crest and the front of the crest. In your mind, this should form an upside-down triangle.

Aim for a location in the center of the triangle, equally far away from both bones. Tighten the skin around the injection site, then deliver the needle directly into the muscle at a 90 degree angle.

Intramuscular Injection into the Buttock (Gluteus medius):

In this location, injections can only be administered by a second party. This location is ideal for larger injections of up to five milliliters. You must be very careful when delivering an injection to this location, because the superior gluteal artery and the sciatic nerve are located only about three centimeters away from the injection site, making it vitally important that the injection is delivered to the correct location based off of physiological landmarks.

Every time this injection is performed, it is important to physically locate both the Posterior Iliac Crest and the Trochanter. This area also has a large amount of fat, and requires longer needles than many other sites. The amount of fat tissue also slows down absorption, which should be taken into account when choosing this location.

Locate the protrusion of the upper femur, known as the trochanter. Then, locate the Posterior Iliac Crest. Place your hand on the central portion of the protrusion of the hipbone and move your hand back until you reach the portion of the bone furthest from the median. You may notice that many individuals have dimples located directly above this bone.

Imagine that there is a line which stretches directly from the Posterior Iliac Crest to the Trochanter. Move to the center of this line, then follow the line one inch further upward. This is the ideal injection site. Stretch the skin taut and deliver the needle directly into this point at a 90 degree angle.