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Testosterone

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Testosterone is given as replacement therapy when natural testosterone levels fall too low.
If you experience frequent or persistent erection you must consult your doctor. Your dose may need to be adjusted or treatment stopped to avoid injury to the penis.

About testosterone

Type of medicine	Male sex hormone
Used for	Androgen deficiency Hypogonadism Breast cancer Delayed puberty
Also called	Restandol® Nebido® Sustanon 250® Andropatch® Testim® Testogel® Tostran®
Available as	Capsules Injection Patch Gel

Testosterone is produced by the testicles and is essential for normal growth and development of the male sex organs and male sexual characteristics. Testosterone is given as replacement therapy when natural testosterone levels fall too low.

Before taking or using testosterone

Before taking or using testosterone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
If you suffer from heart problems.
If you suffer from epilepsy.
If you suffer from diabetes mellitus.
If you suffer from migraine.
If you suffer from any type of cancer.

How to take or use testosterone

Capsules: should be taken with meals, with a little water, and swallowed whole without chewing.
Injection: this will be given as a slow intramuscular injection.
Patches: should be applied to a clean, dry area of the skin on the back, abdomen, upper arms, or thighs.
Gel: should be applied at about the same time each day, to clean, dry, intact skin preferably in the morning after washing, bathing or showering. The manufacturer's information leaflet will explain which areas of skin the gel can be applied to - read this carefully before starting treatment.

Getting the most from your treatment

If you experience frequent or persistent erection you must consult your doctor. Your dose may need to be adjusted or treatment stopped to avoid injury to the penis.

Can testosterone cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine	What can I do if I experience this
Headache	Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer.
Low mood	Speak to your doctor if this continues to be troublesome.
Feeling sick	Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast.
Acne	Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable cream/lotion.
Hair growth in women, in areas usually hair-free	Speak to your doctor.
Local irritation (when using gel, patches)	Try to rotate the site of application.

How to store testosterone

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light

Important information about all medicines

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk

DocID: 1500

DocRef: dils3763

Last Reviewed: 25 Apr 2007

Version: 25

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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