I initailly received ten pellets. At the time my T level was ~325 ng/dl or so. No more than that. That first time I never had a follow up to assess new levels, but in three months my levels were 330 ng/dl so twelve pellets (size of rice grain) were inserted. I did follow up after that second insertion to assess the increase and I was in the upper 600 range. It is my understanding that post insertion T levels rise to their maximum potency in the bloodstream within a day or so. Subsequent readings for me have been in the 800-900 range and the results for me have been phenomenal. The T very gradually lessens post insertion, but for me, between insertions I'm still in the upper 400's, so I don't usually notice much of a slackening in my performance! Time between insertions is usually 3 1/2 months. Insertion site is slightly sore and bruised for a week post insertion then it's just forgotten. No daily gels and fear of transmitting T to folks around me. It's been great!