In this comparison, we are going to look at Testogen and Nugenix Total-T to see which product is the better testosterone booster.
Testosterone is an anabolic–androgenic steroid produced naturally by the body (endogenous) or created synthetically (exogenous). An essential hormone for both men and women, testosterone is far more significant in men, playing key roles in the development of male reproductive tissue, fertility, muscle and bone mass, fat loss, and many other aspects of male health.
Unfortunately, endogenous testosterone peaks in a man’s thirties and then gradually declines by about 1% to 2% per year, potentially leading to a condition known as low testosterone or “Low T.” Some of the symptoms of this condition, also known as androgen deficiency, are losing muscle, weight gain, low libido or sex drive, fatigue, mood swings, depression, and less bone density. The NCBI, quoting The Hypogonadism in Males Study, states that nearly 40% of men over 45 years old are deficient. (Hypogonadism is defined as total testosterone levels less than 300 ng/dL [nanograms per deciliter] in blood).
The prevalence of low T has spawned an entire industry of doctors (endocrinologists or urologists) and clinics providing hormone replacement therapy (HRT). In HRT, exogenous testosterone is prescribed via injection, topical gels or patches, or pellets placed under the skin to return hormone levels to a normal range. HRT treatment, especially long-term treatment, has certain disadvantages and is not without the risk of adverse side effects, including cardiovascular issues such as heart attack and stroke.
Many men who experience the symptoms of low T prefer a more convenient, less intrusive approach, testosterone booster supplements. In this article, we compare the products of two leading companies in the space, Testogen from Health Nutrition Limited, an online presence, and Nugenix Total-T, from the omnichannel marketer Adaptive Health LLC. As we contrast the companies and their products, we’ll explain how their go-to-market strategies drive significant differences between the brands and products. The significantly more complex omnichannel approach requires marketing your products on your website, with other online retailers, and through major brick-and-mortar stores in various channels.
Anyone who has sold products through retail giants such as GNC, Walgreens, Walmart, and Kroger realizes that the vetting system for these retailers is far more extensive than that required of an online-only retailer. Product liability insurance indemnifying the retailer, copies of certifications for cGMP compliance, and product COAs (Certificate of Analysis), are just a few of the hoops a manufacturer selling to big box stores will encounter.
For those wanting a quick read on which brand we believe is better, we would opt for the brand that meets the rigors of selling at retail, the Nugenix product. If we consider the company these products keep, we think the Instaflex and Peptiva brands from Adaptive Health are preferable to Health Nutrition Limited’s “legal steroid alternatives.” Read on as we detail the differences in formulations and ingredients, patented and trademarked compounds versus generic alternatives, benefit claims, and marketing strategies.
Testogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: About the Companies
In our product comparisons, we deem it essential to learn as much as possible about the companies behind the brands, their history, manufacturing processes, marketing philosophies, etc., to help inform our recommendations and your decisions.
Health Nutrition Limited – Testogen
Incorporated in November 2021, formerly Muscle Club Limited, Health Nutrition is in the business of retail sales via mail-order houses or the internet. Testogen is available exclusively through its website or authorized sellers on Amazon.com or Walmart.com – the product is not sold in retail stores. The company is registered in Nottingham, England. One of the company’s websites states that Testogen is manufactured in the U.S. and UK in FDA-approved facilities – erroneous as the FDA does not approve manufacturing facilities. Other landing pages note the product is made either in the U.S. or UK in FDA-registered, GMP-compliant facilities – the correct terminology.
Other products marketed by Health Nutrition include a version of what the company terms “legal steroid alternatives,” including Andalean, Ibutalean, and DekaBulk. In addition, they have another male health supplement Testonine, and a weight loss aid, PhenGold.
The marketing claims for Testogen are bold, citing the percentages of increased testosterone levels after using the product. The statistics are based on the results of one or more clinical trials of single ingredients in Testogen, failing to mention if Testogen meets the dosage used in the trial. We found no clinical trials on the finished product.
The Testogen Supplement Facts label is transparent, listing each compound and dosage, with no proprietary blends. The product is supported by a 100-Day Money-Back Guarantee.
Adaptive Health LLC – Nugenix Total-T
As of September 12, 2022, Wellful is the name of the new parent company of Nutrisystem and Adaptive Health LLC, which recently merged. Nugenix, originally introduced to GNC in 2012 by Adaptive Health’s predecessor, Digital Direct LLC, is now the leading brand of men’s vitality products in the U.S. The company’s portfolio includes other established brands such as Instaflex, Super Beta Prostate, Peptiva, and Dr. Sinatra.
Adaptive Health’s omnichannel marketing and distribution strategy ensures convenient access to its products, including Nugenix Total-T, in major retail outlets and online through its direct-to-consumer e-commerce platforms.
Adaptive Health is one of the very few nutritional supplement companies that self-manufacture their products in their state-of-the-art, FDA-registered, cGMP-compliant manufacturing facilities. Third-party auditing includes NSF certification and finished product reviews for quality and purity at an independent lab.
Products are developed by a team that researches clinical data and published studies regarding safety and efficacy from ingredient testing in concert with a prestigious Medical Advisory Board. All ingredients are dosed at the precise amount used in clinical trials. Members of the Medical Advisory Board include Dr. David Katz, founding director of Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center, Dr. Stephen Sinatra, Integrative Cardiologist, and Dr. Julian Whitaker, founder of the Whitaker Wellness Institute, among other noted medical professionals.
Nugenix is supported by a 30-Day Satisfaction guarantee for a full refund of the purchase price, plus shipping and processing if you are dissatisfied with the product.
Testogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: Product Overviews
Although the category is referred to as testosterone support or test booster supplements, there is no endogenous or exogenous testosterone in these products. Rather there are compounds that are precursors to the formation of testosterone, promote the production of testosterone, or reduce the conversion of testosterone to other hormones.
Testogen from Health Nutrition Limited
Testogen is a dietary supplement in capsule form designed to boost testosterone production naturally. The formulation contains eleven all-natural ingredients with clinical data to support their effectiveness in elevating testosterone levels, increasing energy, building muscle, and aiding in weight loss. Each ingredient and its dosage are listed on the Supplement Facts panel – there are no proprietary blends. Bioperine is the only trademarked ingredient, a patented black pepper extract that aids in the absorption and uptake of the other ingredients. The product is free of gluten, soy, and dairy and is non-GMO.
Each package of Testogen contains 120 capsules, a thirty-day supply. The recommended serving size is four capsules daily, best taken in the a.m. As noted, Testogen has a 100-day money-back guarantee.
Nugenix Total-T from Adaptive Health
Nugenix Total-T is the next-generation reformulation of the original Nugenix Free Testosterone product introduced by Digital Direct in GNC stores in 2012. New Total-T is designed to boost free and total testosterone to help maximize strength, muscle, endurance, libido, and energy. The reformulation added three ingredients, the trademarked elevATP, boron, and Eurycoma longifolia extract. In addition, it changed the ratio of citrulline malate from 1:1 to 2:1. The new product maintains its clinically proven rate of 600 mg of Testofen, a trademarked fenugreek extract, in addition to B6, B12, and zinc.
Although the original product featured a proprietary blend including Testofen, Tribulus, and citrulline malate, the Total-T Supplement Facts panel is transparent, with each ingredient and dosage listed separately.
The serving size is three capsules, with each bottle containing ninety capsules, a thirty-day supply. Adaptive Health offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. The Nugenix national advertising campaign features two retired professional athletes, Frank Thomas of MLB and Doug Flutie of the NFL.
Although Total-T is Adaptive Health’s lead item, they market other male-oriented supplements under the Nugenix banner, including the original Free Testosterone Booster, Estro-Regulator, PM-ZMA, Ultimate, Sexual Vitality Booster, Essential Tribulus, GH Boost, and Full Potency Prostate.
Free, Total, and Bioavailable Testosterone
As one explores the need to boost testosterone levels, one must understand that there are different types of T. When the American Urological Association (AUA) or NCBI defines “Low T” as less than 300ng/dL, they refer to total testosterone, the most used measure in clinical tests. Total testosterone or total T (clever marketers at Adaptive Health), includes both protein-bound testosterone and unbound (free) testosterone:
- Only about 1 to 2% of the testosterone in your body is free testosterone
- Some 60% to 80% is bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
- The remaining 20% to 40% is bound to albumin and cortisol-binding globulin
Bioavailable testosterone includes free test and a portion of the more-weakly bound albumin T circulating in the body, as these are more readily available to tissue to develop bone and muscle strength.
This provides background to Total-T’s benefit claim as the elite formula that safely boosts “free and total testosterone.”
Testogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: Comparison Chart
When selecting a testosterone support product, there are several specific things we review beyond normal company practices. Of course, being FDA-registered, GMP compliant, and third-party tested are the cost of entry. However, in this category of products that elicit a hormonal response, safety, ethics, and effectiveness, are crucial attributes.
Although both products have similar purported benefits, Testogen may push the envelope aggressively. Given the clinical trials of Gencor’s Testofen and FutureCeutical’s elevATP and that Total-T uses the precise dosage used in their trials, they take a more modest approach to claims. By comparison, Testogen cites claims related to D-Aspartic Acid, but the dosage is less than that used in clinical trials.
Not captured in the below chart is the impressive Medical Advisory Board at Advantage Health that reviews all products for safety, efficacy, and adherence to FDA specifications.
| Testogen | Nugenix Total-T | |
| Manufacturing: | ||
| FDA Registered in the U.S. | Yes | Yes |
| cGMP Certified | Yes | Yes |
| Ingredients: | ||
| # of Ingredients | Eleven | Eight |
| Proprietary Blends | No | No |
| Trademarked/Patented | Yes – BioPerine | Testofen, elevATP |
| Quality Assurance: | ||
| Third-party tested | Yes | Yes |
| Advertised Benefits | Increased Natural Testosterone, Improves Energy, Performance, Muscle Growth, Libido, Vitality, and Fat Loss | Increases Free and Total Testosterone, Strength, Lean Muscle, Fat Loss, Libido, Energy |
| Adherence to Allowable Health Claims | Questionable | Yes |
| Price / per Serving | $59.99 / $2.00 per serving | $69.99 / $2.33 per serving |
| Money Back Guarantee | Yes – 100 Days | Yes – 30 Days |
| Where to Buy | Company website, Amazon, Walmart | Nugenix website, Amazon, and brick and mortar specialty retailers |
Testogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: The Formulations
Both products have impressive formulations with multiple ingredients proven effective in boosting testosterone and increasing strength, lean muscle mass, and libido. In this segment, we review the compounds in each product and explain their role in the formulation. When possible, we’ll provide any clinical data that supports the compound’s use and the dosage required to elicit the desired result.
Testogen from Health Nutrition Limited
D-Aspartic Acid, 2352 mg – An amino acid that supports testosterone production. Research on D-Aspartic Acid’s ability to increase testosterone levels has yielded mixed results. Testogen prominently cites the results of one study on its website, claiming an increase of 42% in T levels in 12 days. Health Nutrition claims that the 2352 mg dosage is the highest of any testosterone supplement. The dosage in most clinical trials is 2.6 to 3.0 grams.
Fenugreek Extract, 40 mg – The generic form of fenugreek extract versus the Nugenix Testofen. Fenugreek is one of the ingredients identified by the NCBI as effective in boosting libido, sexual function, and energy. Most clinical trials were at significantly higher doses than the 40 mg in Testogen.
Vitamin D3, 50 mcg (equates to 2,000 IU) – D3 plays an essential role in immunity, mood, bone and muscle, and anti-inflammation. Clinical trials that indicated a positive effect on testosterone levels were at 3,000 IUs daily.
Zinc, 10 mg – Slows the conversion of T to Estradiol. When combined with magnesium and B6 to form ZMA, the zinc dosage is 30 mg.
Korean Red Ginseng Extract 4:1, 40mg – A natural medicinal herb also known as Panax Ginseng, used in traditional Chinese medicine for immune support, heart health, and treating impotence. Research indicates this compound is highly effective in treating ED (erectile dysfunction). Dosages range from 200 mg to 3 grams/day.
Boron, 8 mg – Boron has been shown to boost testosterone levels while decreasing estradiol – a type of estrogen that may cause testosterone levels to decline. Dosages used in trials were 6 mg – 10 mg/day.
Nettle Leaf Extract 4:1, 40 mg – For prostate support. Some studies indicate Stinging Nettle may prevent testosterone’s conversion to estrogen.
Magnesium, 200 mg – Along with the zinc and B6 compounds, magnesium completes the ZMA formulation, however, at significantly lower dosages. For instance, the magnesium in ZMA is 450 mg. Magnesium is one of the NCBI’s recommended components for an effective testosterone support product, proven to enhance testosterone production and improve exercise performance.
Vitamin B6, 20 mg – B6 is shown to support the immune system, increase energy, and improve brain health. Studies indicate that B6 can increase zinc’s ability to restrict testosterone’s conversion process to DHT.
Vitamin K1, 20 mcg – Vitamin K’s role in Testogen is to help your body absorb vitamin D more efficiently.
Bioperine® 95% Piperine, 5 mg – The only trademarked compound in Testogen. Bioperine’s role, like Vitamin K, is to enhance the absorption of the other components.
Nugenix Total-T
Fenugreek Extract (Testofen), 600 mg – as reported by the NCBI, in a double-blind, randomized clinical study Testofen was found to increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function in healthy aging males. In a separate study, test levels increased, and the participants saw an improvement in body composition. The dosage in both trials was the same 600 mg as found in Nugenix Total-T.
elevATP, 150 mg – this compound is a natural combination of ancient peat and apple polyphenols that helps the body produce ATP and is the second trademarked compound in Total-T. Clinical trials indicate that elevATP will:
- Support increased lean muscle and strength
- Promote increased power output and training volume
- Help reduce performance decrements associated with overreaching
- Help improve athletic performance and body composition
- Support higher levels of mitochondrial ATP
Important note: The above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The dosage in FutureCeutical’s clinical trials was 150 mg – the amount included in Total-T.
L-Citrulline Malate, 1125 mg – a nonessential amino acid that promotes vasodilation, the widening of the blood vessels, useful in treating ED (erectile dysfunction), for exercise performance, and muscle gains. Additional benefits include lowering blood pressure and increasing GH (growth hormone) release after exercise.
Eurycoma Longifolia Extract, 100 mg – also known as Tongkat Ali in Asia, has been used as an herbal remedy for centuries to treat infections, fevers, male infertility, and erectile dysfunction. In addition to its antioxidant properties, Eurycoma’s ability to increase testosterone levels in deficient males is well documented. In clinical trials, a 100 mg dose has been shown to improve body composition.
Boron, 10 mg – Boron is a trace mineral with diverse and vitally essential roles in metabolism. According to the NCBI, Boron aids in the following:
- Bone growth and maintenance
- Improves wound healing
- Effects the body’s use of estrogen and testosterone
- Aids in Vitamin D utilization
- Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
In clinical trials, boron supplementation increased free testosterone levels in men. After one week of boron supplementation, 6 mg / day suggests a higher rate of conversion of total testosterone to free testosterone (in the testosterone metabolic pathway).
Zinc, 1 mg – Zinc is a trace metallic element found in nature. There is a strong correlation between zinc deficiency and lower testosterone levels. Zinc supplementation in older men with Low T nearly doubled their testosterone levels.
Vitamin B6, 2 mg – Vitamin B6 is an essential vitamin with many significant health benefits. B6 is often paired with zinc in testosterone support products – often with the addition of magnesium to form ZMA. Studies indicate that B6 can increase zinc’s ability to restrict testosterone’s conversion process to DHT.
Vitamin B12, 2.4 mcg – B12 is an essential vitamin found in meats, fish, and dairy. Nugenix uses Methylcobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12, at .2.4 mcg, the recommended daily allowance for adults.
Each compound is dosed at the appropriate level used in its clinical trials or the published RDA.
Testogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: The Benefits of Each Brand
When reviewing the advertised benefits of the brands, we noted somewhat different approaches. Both brands touted increased testosterone levels, with Nugenix placing a greater emphasis on free and total testosterone, resulting in optimized strength, muscle, energy, and endurance. The Q&A on the Nugenix site states, “While this is not an athletic performance product when used along with resistance training, it can help you achieve increased gains in your strength training program.”
International Health quotes increased testosterone levels extensively with corresponding percentages of increase. Both brands address added benefits of their products in the areas of:
- Body composition – more muscle / less body fat
- Libido and sex drive
- Mood and mental health
- Bone and joint health
- Improved sleep
- Healthy aging – turning back the clock
What Customers Have to Say About the Products
Nugenix has an entire section of its site devoted to reviews, most giving the product five stars and proclaiming they have experienced the advertised benefits. Testogen takes reviews a step further on its site, with photos and videos of men across the globe extolling the product’s virtues.
Seeking a bit more objective approach, we researched customer reviews of both products on Amazon.com. Of more than 13,000 Nugenix reviews, the product received a five-star rating from only 59% of customers. We were somewhat appalled by the low approval rating compared to a popular protein powder with 85% five stars. Testogen results, however, were even worse, with only 50% of fewer than 2,000 customers giving the brand five stars.
Testogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: Price Comparison
This segment is typically rather straightforward with product prices and perhaps special offers, a restatement of the Money Back Guarantee, and information relative to shipping costs. With Adaptive Health’s omnichannel strategy, Total-T is available online and in major brick-and-mortar retailers. Read on to see how they manage their pricing strategy and product offerings to different retailers.
Testogen
A one-month supply of Testogen on the Health Nutrition Limited website is $59.99. If you purchase two units, you receive a third bottle free; buy three bottles and you receive two additional bottles free of charge. Shipping is free; as mentioned previously, there is a 100-day money-back guarantee.
In what appears to be a change in strategy, Testogen is now available on Amazon.com for $53.99 and Walmart.com for $59.99. Previously the company had stated products on these sites were not authorized.
Nugenix Total-T
On the Nugenix website, Total-T is listed at $69.99. During our time on the site, there was a flag with a 15% off statement. Click on the banner, and you are directed to a “spin and win” feature that awards discounts of 5%, 10%, and 15%.
On Amazon, it initially appears that Total-T is only sold as a combination pack with another Nugenix supplement. Examples include:
- Total-T and Nitric Oxide Booster, $89.99
- Total-T and Thermogenic Fat Burner, $108.00
- Total-T and ZMA Nighttime Support, $95.98
After a bit more research, we found Total-T as a stand-alone priced at $64.99 for a thirty-day supply.
GNC retails Total-T at $64.99, also available on a subscription basis for $58.49. Interestingly, The Vitamin Shoppe does not appear to stock Total-T, although they sell a more basic Nugenix Free Testosterone Booster at $59.99. It would appear GNC has an exclusive in the Specialty Channel on the newer, Total-T formulation.
The Vitamin Shoppe product has a similar but different formulation, in this instance, masked by a proprietary blend of the primary components.
To validate this premise, we searched for Total-T at other brick-and-mortar retailers:
- Vitamin World, in the specialty channel – only offers the Nugenix Free Testosterone Booster, at $59.99, a thirty-day supply
- Walgreens, a Chain Drug retailer, sells the Nugenix Free Testosterone Booster at $31.99 for 14 servings, plus multiple other Nugenix skus, but no Total-T
- CVS in Chain Drug retails Nugenix Free Testosterone Booster at $34.99 for 14 servings, no Total-T product available
- The other major Chain Drug retailer, Rite-Aid, sells Total-T at $68.99 for thirty servings
What you see here is classic channel marketing, segmenting different product offerings and sizes by class of trade with the premier item, Total-T exclusive to GNC, where Adaptive Health got its start for the Nugenix brand. So, why does Rite-Aid, a Chain Drug retailer, have Total-T? Because of the strategic alliance between Rite Aid and GNC wherein Rite-Aid stores have a special GNC “store in a store” section.
Finally, we looked at the big box stores, mass merchandisers Walmart and Target, and food retailers Kroger and Albertsons. Walmart does have Total-T, in the ninety-serve size, at $59.99, the best price we found. Target does not stock any products from Nugenix. Both Kroger and Albertsons stock only the Nugenix Free Testosterone Booster.
Tetsogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: Things To Consider
When considering any testosterone-boosting product, our first recommendation is to see your physician. They will order a blood test to determine your current total and free testosterone levels. Your symptoms may be attributable to other underlying medical conditions. Plus, unless you know your current levels, you cannot determine in later tests if your product is delivering on its promises.
There are additional ways to boost your testosterone levels naturally, either in lieu of or in combination with a test booster. Exercise, particularly resistance training, will help elevate testosterone and aid in releasing growth hormone. For those who prefer cardio, HIIT, high-intensity interval training will also help produce testosterone; however, not so with long-distance endurance work. Follow a healthy, nutritious diet to avoid weight gain, as obesity is linked to both type II diabetes and low testosterone.
When comparing Nugenix to Testogen, there are several crucial considerations, led by ingredients and dosages. Trademarked compounds such as Testofen and elevATP have clinical trials supporting their effectiveness at the appropriate dosages. Nugenix adheres to the precise dosages used in these clinicals.
When shopping online, Testogen will be a better value; however, if price is your primary consideration, consider Total-T at Walmart at $59.99. Which leads us to accessing the products; only Nugenix is available at major big box stores and in the specialty channel.
Testogen vs. Nugenix Total-T: Which Supplement is Better?
Nugenix is our clear winner in this head-to-head comparison. The companies’ histories, the Adaptive Health Medical Board, trademarked ingredients, appropriate dosages, and the viability of the other products marketed by the companies support this decision.
As with any new supplement you consider adding to your regimen, let us recommend you discuss your symptoms and the product of your choice with your doctor. The ingredients in testosterone support products may cause interactions with other medications, and there is the potential for adverse effects.
