Testosterone Cypionate
A profile on Test C, the most common ester used in American TRT protocols and bulking cycles.
Testosterone Cypionate
Testosterone Cypionate (Test C) is a slow-acting injectable ester of the primary male androgen testosterone.
It is virtually identical in effect and pharmacokinetics to Testosterone Enanthate. The primary difference is that Cypionate is more common in the United States, while Enanthate is more common in Europe/International markets.
Quick Specs
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Active Compound | Testosterone |
| Half-Life | ~5 Days (marketed as 8 days clinically) |
| Detection Time | ~3 Months |
| Anabolic/Androgenic Ratio | 100 : 100 |
| Chemical Family | Testosterone |
| Administration | Injectable (IM or SubQ) |
Mechanism of Action
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for male sexual traits and muscle mass. By attaching the Cypionate ester, the release rate is slowed down, allowing for less frequent injections compared to Propionate or Suspension.
Once the ester is cleaved off by enzymes in the body, free testosterone is released into the bloodstream to bind to androgen receptors.
Pharmacokinetics & Dosing
Half-Life: ~5 Days
While clinical literature often cites 8-12 days, in real-world metabolic contexts for stable blood levels, the functional half-life is closer to 5 days.
- TRT Dosing: Usually 100-200mg per week, split into two injections (e.g., Mon/Thu).
- Cycle Dosing: 300-500mg+ per week, split into two injections.
Enanthate vs. Cypionate
There is almost no functional difference. Cypionate has a slightly longer carbon chain, meaning per 100mg of oil, there is slightly less actual testosterone (due to ester weight) compared to Enanthate, but the difference is negligible in practice.
Primary Effects
- Nitrogen Retention: Keeps muscles in an anabolic state.
- IGF-1 Increase: Increases Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 levels for tissue repair.
- Satellite Cell Activity: Promotes muscle fiber repair and growth.
- Well-being: Improves mood, energy, and libido.
Side Effects & Harm Reduction
The Foundation:
Testosterone is bio-identical. Side effects are usually predictable and manageable compared to synthetic compounds like Trenbolone.
1. Estrogenic
Testosterone aromatizes into Estradiol. High levels cause water retention, high BP, and gyno.
- Management: Monitor symptoms. Keep body fat low (fat cells contain aromatase). Use an AI if necessary.
2. Androgenic
Conversion to DHT can cause acne and hair loss.
- Management: Finasteride can block conversion to DHT (unlike with other steroids where Finasteride is useless).
3. Hematocrit
Testosterone stimulates red blood cell production. Thick blood puts strain on the heart.
- Management: Donate blood if Hematocrit exceeds 52-54%. Stay hydrated.
Tracking Test Cypionate
Using the Anabolic Tracker app:
- Inventory: Add Testosterone Cypionate.
- Scheduling: Twice Weekly (e.g., Monday morning and Thursday evening).
- Metrics: Track Weight (expect initial water weight) and Libido.
- Bloodwork: Essential markers: Total Test, Free Test, E2, Hematocrit.
Disclaimer:
This guide is for informational purposes only. Testosterone is a controlled substance. Misuse can lead to permanent health damage. Always consult with a medical professional.