Testosterone: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use it

What is Testosterone and its Derivatives?

What is testosterone for?

Testosterone or testosterone is a hormone therapy injection drug that is given to treat low levels of the hormone testosterone in the body, or what is known as hypogonadism.

This drug consists of 4 types or derivatives, namely:

• testosterone cypionate
• testosterone enanthate
• testosterone undecanoate
• testosterone pellets

Testosterone itself is an important hormone that is produced naturally in the body. In men, this hormone plays a role in maintaining several things, such as:

• bone density and muscle mass
• production of red blood cells
• hair growth on the body and face
• sexual arousal
• development of the male reproductive organs
• sperm production

In addition, it is suspected that normal levels of the hormone testosterone in the body can help reduce the risk of developing hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart attacks.

Not only produced in the male body, there is also the hormone testosterone in the female body, even though in small amounts.

How do you use testosterone?

The way of giving testosterone drugs is by injection or injection. Administration of this drug is usually only carried out in health facilities, such as clinics or hospitals, and of course under the supervision of a doctor or medical team.

It is not advisable for you to inject your own hormone medication at home. This is important to prevent unwanted things from happening, such as the occurrence of dangerous side effects without the supervision of a doctor.

Some things you need to know about using this injection drug are:

• This medicine is usually given every 2 or 4 weeks.
• The duration of treatment depends on the health conditions you have. Only a doctor can determine the length of your treatment.
• Do not use this medication for more than the recommended dose, for less, or for longer than the prescribed dose.
• Consult your pharmacist for more information.

How to store this drug?

Store testosterone injections at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom and freeze medication.

Different brands of drugs may have different storage methods. Check the product box for instructions on how to store it, or ask the pharmacist. Stay away from children and pets.

It is forbidden to flush the medicine in the toilet or throw it into the drain if not told to. Discard this product when the drug has expired or when it is no longer needed.

Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal agency about how to safely dispose of your medicine.

Testosterone Dosage and Its Derivatives

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the dose of testosterone for adults?

Here are the dosages set for adults:

PO male hypogonadism

As undecylate ester: Initial: 120-160 mg / day. Rules: 40-120 mg / day.

Male buccal hypogonadism

30 mg twice daily.

Male IM hypogonadism

• As a cipionate: 50-400 mg 2-4 every week
• As enantate: ≤50 mg 2-3 times / week.
• As a propionate: 200-400 mg 2-4 per week.

Male SC Hypogonadism

As an implant: 100-600 mg

Male transdermal hypogonadism

• As a 2.5-7.5 mg / day patch: apply to back, stomach, thighs, upper arms as directed. As a scrotal patch containing 10 or 15 mg (giving 4-6 mg in 24 hours): use as directed.

What is the dose of testosterone for children?

Safety and effectiveness have not been determined in pediatric patients (less than 18 years).

In what dosage and preparation is this drug available?

Testosterone medication is available as an injection or injection.

Testosterone side effects and derivatives

What are the possible side effects of testosterone?

This medication may cause side effects in some people.

According to MIMS, some of the side effects that may occur after using testosterone drugs are:

• buildup of fluid in the body
• low calcium levels in the body
• glucose intolerance
• excessive bone growth
• cholesterol increases
• headache
• depression
• bleeding in the digestive system

If the following side effects occur, stop treatment immediately and consult a doctor:

• liver problems or poisoning
• grow lumps in certain parts of the body

Not everyone experiences the following side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above.

If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Warnings and Cautions for Testosterone Drugs and Its Derivatives

What to know before using testosterone?

All medications have warnings and risks that are important for you to learn about. Here are some things you need to pay attention to before using testosterone hormone drugs:

• You should not use this medicine if you have a history of allergies to certain drugs, especially the ingredients found in this medicine.
• Tell your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, whether prescription, non-prescription, supplements, or herbal medicines.
• In addition, it is also important to inform your doctor about any diseases or other health conditions that you are currently suffering from. It is possible that this drug can trigger interactions with certain diseases or health conditions.
• Make sure you do not miss the schedule for injecting this drug with your doctor.

Is this drug safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

This medicine is included in the risk of pregnancy category X (contraindicated) and should not be used by pregnant women.

Testosterone Drug Interactions and Derivatives

What drugs might interact with testosterone?

Although certain drugs are completely prohibited from being used at the same time, in other cases two different drugs can be used simultaneously even though interactions may occur.

In this case, the doctor may want to change the dose, or other warnings may be important. Tell your healthcare professional if you are on prescription or nonprescription drugs.

Here is a list of drugs that can interact with testosterone:

• cyclosporine
• ivacaftor
• warfarin
• axitinib
• insulin
• lomitapide
• ritonavir

Does food or alcohol interact with testosterone?

Certain drugs should not be used when eating certain foods because drug-food interactions can occur.

Smoking tobacco or consuming alcohol with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur.

Discuss your use of drugs with food, alcohol, or tobacco with your doctor, medical team, or pharmacist.

What health conditions can interact with this drug?

The presence of other medical disorders may affect the use of this drug. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• breast cancer
• prostate cancer
• liver disease
• Kidney illness
• heart disease
• lung disease
• enlarged prostate gland
• sleep apnea (difficulty breathing while sleeping)
• diabetes
• depression

Testosterone Overdose and Derivatives

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or symptoms of an overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (118 or 119) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose in one use.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.