Testosterone

Testosterone — Uses and Benefits

Testosterone is mainly used to treat conditions caused by low levels of natural testosterone in the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating hypogonadism (low testosterone) in men due to testicular, pituitary, or brain problems
• Delayed puberty in boys, when prescribed by a specialist
• Certain types of breast cancer in women, as advised by an oncologist

HOW IT WORKS

• Testosterone is the main male sex hormone
• It helps maintain muscle mass, bone strength, sperm production, and sex drive
• When natural levels are low, replacement testosterone restores these functions closer to normal

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for general bodybuilding or muscle-building in healthy people
• It is not used to improve athletic performance and is banned in competitive sports
• It is not a treatment for infertility caused by low sperm count from other causes
• It is not meant for anti-aging or general energy boosting without a diagnosed deficiency

How to Use Testosterone

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Testosterone is given only as prescribed by your doctor, usually as an injection, gel, or patch
• Injections are typically given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital
• Gels and patches are applied to clean, dry skin as directed, avoiding transfer to others through skin contact
• Do not change the dose or frequency on your own
• Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor hormone levels while on treatment

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• If you miss an injection appointment, contact your doctor to reschedule as soon as possible
• If you miss applying a gel or patch dose, apply it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the next dose
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store as per the instructions on the pack, usually at room temperature away from heat and moisture
• Keep gels, patches, and injections out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Dispose of used patches carefully as they may still contain active hormone

Testosterone — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Acne or oily skin
• Pain, redness, or swelling at injection or application site
• Increased body or facial hair growth
• Mood changes or irritability

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Fluid retention or swelling in ankles
• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Headache
• Changes in sex drive

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Signs of stroke such as sudden weakness, slurred speech
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (liver problems)
• Severe mood swings, aggression, or depression
• Prolonged or painful erections
• Swelling of legs with rapid weight gain

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Testosterone — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must not be used without a doctor's supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Have known or suspected prostate or breast cancer
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have severe heart, liver, or kidney disease
• Are allergic to testosterone or any ingredient in the product

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart disease
• Have sleep apnea
• Have benign prostate enlargement
• Are being treated for infertility
• Have diabetes or high blood pressure

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Insulin or diabetes medicines
• Corticosteroids
• Other hormone therapies

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can women use testosterone?

It is sometimes used in women for specific medical conditions under strict specialist supervision, but not for general use.

Will testosterone therapy affect fertility?

Yes, it can reduce sperm production and fertility, so discuss this with your doctor if you plan to have children.

Can I stop testosterone therapy suddenly?

• You should not stop without consulting your doctor, as sudden withdrawal can cause hormonal imbalance and symptoms to return.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.