Testosterone
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Androgen
Controlled Drug Substance
YES
Testosterone
Summary
Testosterone is used to treat hypogonadism in men, a condition where the body doesn't produce enough natural testosterone due to disorders of the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. Symptoms of low testosterone levels such as low libido, fatigue, and muscle weakness can be alleviated with this treatment.
Testosterone works by replacing the hormone that the body is unable to produce in sufficient quantities. It contributes to the growth and development of male sexual organs, secondary sexual characteristics like muscle mass and body hair, and helps in maintaining energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing.
The usual daily dose for Testosterone in adults is 200 mg, taken orally twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening with food. It's important to take the medication consistently with meals to ensure proper absorption and effectiveness.
Common side effects of Testosterone include headache, diarrhea, and increased blood pressure. Serious adverse effects can include cardiovascular events, liver disease, and mood changes. If you experience any unusual symptoms, you should inform your healthcare provider immediately.
Testosterone should not be used by pregnant women because of the risk of virilization of the female fetus. It's also contraindicated in patients with breast or prostate cancer, and those with known hypersensitivity to the drug. Patients with cardiovascular risk factors should be closely monitored.
Indications and Purpose
How does Testosterone work?
Testosterone works by supplementing the body's natural hormone levels. It belongs to the class of androgens, which are male hormones. Think of it like adding fuel to a car's engine. Testosterone helps improve energy, which is vitality, and mood, which is emotional state. It also increases muscle mass, which is the size of muscles, and bone density, which is bone strength. These effects make Testosterone helpful for people with low testosterone levels, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, which is extreme tiredness, and low libido, which is reduced sexual desire.
Is Testosterone effective?
Yes, Testosterone is effective for treating low testosterone levels, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, which is extreme tiredness, and low libido, which is reduced sexual desire. It can also help improve muscle mass and bone density. Clinical studies show that Testosterone therapy can significantly improve these symptoms in men with low levels. However, its effectiveness can vary based on individual health conditions and how well you follow your treatment plan. Always discuss your progress with your doctor.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone replacement therapy used to treat low testosterone levels, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, which is extreme tiredness, and low libido, which is reduced sexual desire. It belongs to the class of androgens, which are male hormones. Testosterone works by supplementing the body's natural hormone levels, helping to improve energy, mood, and sexual function. It is also used to increase muscle mass and bone density. Testosterone can be administered as an injection, patch, gel, or tablet, depending on the treatment plan.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Testosterone?
Testosterone is usually a long-term medication for managing ongoing health conditions like low testosterone levels, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, which is extreme tiredness, and low libido, which is reduced sexual desire. You'll typically take Testosterone every day or as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your conditions to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Testosterone treatment.
How do I dispose of Testosterone?
To dispose of Testosterone, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, remove it from its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away. Always keep it out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take Testosterone?
Testosterone is usually administered as an injection, patch, gel, or tablet. The method and frequency depend on your specific treatment plan. Injections are often given every 1 to 4 weeks, while patches and gels are applied daily. Tablets are taken orally, usually once or twice a day. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not crush or chew tablets unless advised. Some forms of Testosterone should be taken with food to improve absorption. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double up on doses. Always consult your doctor for specific guidance.
How long does it take for Testosterone to start working?
Testosterone begins working in your body shortly after you start taking it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. Some improvements, like increased energy, which is vitality, and improved mood, which is emotional state, can be seen within a few weeks. Other benefits, like increased muscle mass, which is the size of muscles, and improved bone density, which is bone strength, may take several months. How quickly the medication works can depend on your age, overall health, and how well you follow your treatment plan. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Testosterone?
Store Testosterone at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Do not store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. If your Testosterone came in packaging that isn't child-resistant, transfer it to a container that children can't easily open. Always store Testosterone out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Testosterone?
The usual starting dose of Testosterone varies depending on the form and the condition being treated. For injections, doses can range from 50 to 400 mg every 2 to 4 weeks. Patches typically deliver 4 to 6 mg daily, while gels provide 5 to 10 grams daily. Tablets are usually taken in doses of 40 to 120 mg per day. Dose adjustments may be needed based on your response and side effects. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions, especially for children or the elderly, who may require different doses.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Testosterone with other prescription drugs?
Testosterone can interact with several prescription drugs. Major interactions include blood thinners like warfarin, which can increase bleeding risk, and insulin, which can affect blood sugar levels. Moderate interactions include corticosteroids, which can increase fluid retention, and certain heart medications, which can affect heart function. These interactions can increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness of Testosterone. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to manage these interactions safely.
Can Testosterone be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Testosterone is not recommended while breastfeeding. There is limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk, but it could potentially affect the breastfed infant. The medication might also impact milk supply. If you're taking Testosterone and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. They can help you find a treatment plan that supports both your health and your baby's well-being.
Can Testosterone be taken safely while pregnant?
Testosterone is not safe to use during pregnancy. It can harm the developing baby, leading to birth defects, which are abnormalities present at birth. There is limited evidence on the absolute safety of most medicines during pregnancy, but Testosterone is known to pose significant risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about safer alternatives. They can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does Testosterone have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Testosterone can cause several adverse effects, including acne, which is a skin condition with pimples, and mood changes, which are shifts in emotional state. It can also lead to increased red blood cell count, which thickens the blood. Serious effects include heart problems and liver damage. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. They can help manage these effects and adjust your treatment if necessary.
Does Testosterone have any safety warnings?
Yes, Testosterone has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of heart problems, such as heart attack or stroke, especially in older men. It may also cause liver damage, which is harm to the organ that processes toxins. Testosterone can worsen prostate cancer, which is a disease where cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably. Not following safety warnings can lead to serious health issues. Always discuss potential risks with your doctor and follow their guidance closely.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Testosterone?
It's best to limit alcohol while taking Testosterone. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage, which is harm to the organ that processes toxins, and worsen side effects like mood changes, which are shifts in emotional state. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and watch for warning signs like nausea, which is a feeling of sickness, or dizziness, which is feeling lightheaded. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Testosterone to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Testosterone?
Yes, you can exercise while taking Testosterone. In fact, exercise can enhance the benefits of Testosterone, such as increased muscle mass, which is the size of muscles, and improved energy, which is vitality. However, be mindful of side effects like dizziness, which is feeling lightheaded, or mood changes, which are shifts in emotional state. To exercise safely, stay hydrated and listen to your body. If you notice unusual symptoms, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop Testosterone?
Stopping Testosterone suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as fatigue, which is extreme tiredness, and mood swings, which are rapid changes in emotional state. If you're using it for a chronic condition, stopping might worsen your symptoms. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Testosterone. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose to minimize withdrawal effects. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
Is Testosterone addictive?
Testosterone is not considered addictive in the traditional sense, but it can lead to dependency. Some people may misuse it to enhance athletic performance or physical appearance, which can lead to psychological dependence. Signs of dependence include using more than prescribed or feeling unable to stop. To avoid dependence, use Testosterone only as directed by your doctor and discuss any concerns you have about its use.
Is Testosterone safe for the elderly?
Testosterone can be used by the elderly, but with caution. Older adults are more vulnerable to side effects like heart problems, which affect the heart's ability to pump blood, and prostate issues, which involve the gland that produces seminal fluid. Regular monitoring by a doctor is important to manage these risks. The benefits of Testosterone should outweigh the potential risks. Always discuss with your doctor before starting or adjusting Testosterone therapy.
What are the most common side effects of Testosterone?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Testosterone include acne, which is a skin condition with pimples, and increased hair growth. Some people may experience mood changes, which are shifts in emotional state, or changes in libido, which is sexual desire. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms, they might be temporary or unrelated to Testosterone. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Testosterone?
Do not use Testosterone if you have prostate cancer, which is a disease where cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably, or breast cancer, which is a disease where cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. These are absolute contraindications, meaning the drug must not be used. Relative contraindications include heart disease, which affects the heart's ability to pump blood, and liver problems, which affect the organ that processes toxins. Use Testosterone only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
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