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Testosterone
|
About testosterone
| Type of medicine | Male sex hormone |
| Used for | Androgen deficiency Hypogonadism Breast cancer Delayed puberty |
| Also called | Restandol Striant SR Nebido Sustanon 100, 250 Virormone Andropatch Testim Testogel |
| Available as | Capsules Buccal tablets 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 testosterone
Before taking 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 testosterone
- Capsules: should be taken with meals, with a little water, and swallowed whole without chewing.
- Buccal tablets: should be applied to the gum region.
- 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 of the shoulders and/or upper arms, preferably in the morning after washing, bathing or showering.
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
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