@deycarelock's testosterone injection demo, fact-checked

What does this video actually show?

@deycarelock demonstrates administering an intramuscular testosterone injection in what appears to be proper technique. The TikTok shows the injection process without making specific medical claims about dosing, frequency, or effects.

The video is tagged as educational and represents testosterone therapy for transgender men. It's a straightforward demonstration rather than a claims-heavy explanation of testosterone's effects or protocols.

Is the injection technique medically sound?

From what's visible, the technique appears consistent with standard intramuscular injection practices. The creator uses what looks like appropriate needle placement and injection site selection.

Proper intramuscular testosterone injection typically involves the gluteal muscle or vastus lateralis (thigh muscle) with a 1-1.5 inch needle. The injection should be slow and steady to minimize tissue damage and ensure proper medication delivery.

However, viewers shouldn't use social media videos as injection tutorials. Healthcare providers should demonstrate proper technique, sterile procedures, and site rotation to prevent complications like abscesses or nerve damage.

What does testosterone therapy actually involve?

For transgender men, testosterone cypionate or enanthate injections typically range from 50-200mg every 1-2 weeks, though protocols vary significantly. The UCSF Guidelines for Transition Care recommend starting doses around 25-50mg weekly or 50-100mg biweekly.

Testosterone therapy requires ongoing medical supervision. Regular blood work monitors testosterone levels, hematocrit, liver function, and lipid profiles. The Endocrine Society's 2017 guidelines specify monitoring every 3 months initially, then every 6-12 months.

Effects typically begin within 1-3 months but continue developing for years. Voice changes usually start around 3-6 months and can take up to two years to complete.

What are the real risks and benefits?

Testosterone therapy can significantly improve gender dysphoria and quality of life for transgender men. A 2019 study by Ristori et al. in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found substantial improvements in psychological well-being after 12 months of treatment.

But testosterone isn't risk-free. It can increase red blood cell count (polycythemia), potentially raising cardiovascular risks. The drug also affects cholesterol levels and may impact liver function at higher doses.

Some effects are irreversible even if treatment stops. Voice deepening, facial hair growth, and male-pattern baldness typically persist. Fertility may be affected, though it's not guaranteed to be permanent.

What should you know about getting testosterone?

You can't legally get testosterone without a prescription in the United States. It's a controlled substance requiring medical oversight, not something to source online or from non-medical providers.

Telehealth platforms like Folx Health and Plume now offer transgender hormone therapy consultations. These services can make treatment more accessible, especially in areas with few transgender-experienced providers.

The creator gets credit for showing this as an educational post rather than making exaggerated claims about testosterone's effects. That's more responsible than most hormone-related content on social media.