Uses
This medication is used in men who do not make enough of a natural substance called testosterone. In males, testosterone is responsible for many normal functions, including growth and development of the genitals, muscles, and bones. It also helps cause normal sexual development (puberty) in boys. Testosterone belongs to a class of drugs known as androgens. It works by affecting many body systems so that the body can develop and function normally.
Testosterone may also be used in certain adolescent boys to cause puberty in those with delayed puberty. It may also be used to treat certain types of breast cancer in women.
Precautions
Before using testosterone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as sesame oil), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: cancer (such as breast cancer in men, prostate cancer), blood clots (such as in the leg, lungs), heart disease (such as heart failure, chest pain, heart attack), stroke, liver problems, kidney problems, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, enlarged prostate, sleep apnea, diabetes.
If you have diabetes, this product may lower your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of low blood sugar, such as sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
This drug may affect your cholesterol and may increase your risk of heart or blood vessel problems (coronary artery disease). Your doctor will monitor your cholesterol level closely.
Tell your doctor if you become bed-ridden (unable to walk) for a prolonged time while using this medication. Your doctor may monitor your blood calcium level to prevent problems.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Caution is advised when using this drug in children because bone growth may be affected, causing shorter adult height. Your child's doctor will monitor growth and bone development during treatment.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially prostate/liver problems, swelling of arms/legs.
This medication must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control (such as condoms, birth control pills) with your doctor. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. It may affect milk production and it may harm a nursing infant. Breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.