Side Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone is a male sex hormone produced in large amounts by the testicles. The hormone is essential for proper sexual and reproductive function. Testosterone plays a crucial role in the development of male sexual characteristics. The hormone is important for maintaining bone growth and overall well being.

Individuals with low testosterone levels in their blood need to undergo testosterone replacement therapy. As a person crosses 30 years of age, a natural decline in testosterone production starts and continues throughout life. This hormone replacement therapy comes in various forms. Each of these options listed below provide sufficient levels of testosterone to the body.

• Testosterone tablets or capsules.
• Intramuscular injections that are generally administered every two weeks; The hormone should be injected in a large muscle like the anterior thigh. Either a 200 mg injection is given every two weeks or 400 mg injections once a month
• Testosterone gels for the skin; The gels are applied daily to the upper arms, shoulders or abdomen.
• Testosterone skin patches are worn on the scrotum or elsewhere on the body.

Side Effects of Testosterone Therapy

Side effects associated with testosterone therapy are uncommon. The possible side effects that may occur in people who undergo testosterone replacement therapy are as follows.

Fluid Retention: The problem of fluid accumulation is observed especially in older men. This may lead to leg or ankle swelling, worsening of congestive heart failure or high blood pressure.

Liver Problems: People taking oral testosterone replacement therapy may suffer from liver complications such as liver toxicity.

Sleep Apnea: This is a condition in which the breathing process repeatedly pauses and starts during sleep. An increase in testosterone levels in the body may worsen pre-existing sleep apnea.

Problems with Fertility: Spermatogenesis, also known as production of sperm depends on the amount of testosterone produced by the testes. So if this hormone is taken through supplements, the testes may no longer secrete their own testosterone. As a result, sperm production will stop completely or significantly. This effect may last for a specific duration or permanently affect the body. People who want to start a family should take this into consideration before opting for this therapy.

Enlargement of Breast Tissues: Some older men on testosterone therapy may experience breast development. This may be the result of testosterone converting into estrogen. Breast tissues in both men and women are sensitive to estrogen. To overcome this side effect, the doctor may advice decreasing the testosterone dose.

Increase in Red Blood Cells: People undergoing testosterone replacement therapy may show increased red blood cell concentration and hemoglobin levels which can increase the chances for strokes, heart attacks or minor clots in the veins.

Increase in Prostate Size: People with early prostate cancer should avoid this therapy as testosterone may promote growth of the prostate, thereby stimulating the cancerous growth. Even people who have a history of prostate cancer should not use testosterone therapy as it increases the volume of the prostate gland. Therefore before considering this therapy, one must undergo prostate screening for the early detection of prostate cancer.

Other side effects that can result due to testosterone replacement therapy are as follows.

• Mild acne or oily skin
• Irritation of skin due to usage of testosterone patches
• Alterations in mood; Increased aggression

Overall, testosterone therapy is safe and is helpful to restore normal testosterone levels in the body. Misuse or long term use of testosterone, may cause the aforementioned side effects.