Testosterone – Intramuscular, Delatestryl, Tesamone
USES: This medication is used in men who do not produce enough testosterone. Testosterone is responsible for normal growth and development of the genitals, muscles, and bones. It also plays a role in sexual development during puberty. Testosterone belongs to a class of drugs called androgens. It affects multiple body systems to promote normal development and function. Testosterone may also be used in certain adolescent boys to induce puberty in cases of delayed development.
HOW TO USE: This medication is injected into the buttock muscle as directed by your doctor, usually every 1 to 4 weeks. Do not inject this medication into a vein. Dosage is based on your medical condition, testosterone levels, and response to treatment. If you are self-administering this medication at home, learn the proper preparation and usage instructions from your healthcare professional. Before using, visually inspect the product for any particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to safely store and discard medical supplies. Use this medication regularly for maximum benefit. Use a calendar to mark the injection days for easy recall. Do not abruptly stop using testosterone if you have been using it consistently for a prolonged period or at high doses. Sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal reactions such as fatigue, weakness, and depression. Consult your doctor for a gradual dose reduction to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Notify your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any adverse reactions.
SIDE EFFECTS: Common side effects of this medication include nausea, vomiting, headache, changes in skin color, fluctuation in sexual interest, oily skin, hair loss, and acne. Pain and redness at the injection site may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Serious side effects are rare, but if experienced, seek immediate medical attention.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using testosterone, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other complications. Exercise caution when using this medication if you have certain medical conditions such as breast or prostate cancer. Discuss your medical history, especially heart disease, liver problems, kidney problems, other types of cancer, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, enlarged prostate, sleep apnea, and diabetes. Check your blood sugar levels regularly if you have diabetes, as this medication can lower blood sugar. This drug can also affect cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart or blood vessel problems. People who are bedridden for extended periods may require blood calcium level monitoring while on this medication. Use this drug cautiously in children, as it may affect bone growth and adult height. Older adults should also use this drug with caution due to the increased risk of prostate, liver problems, and limb swelling. This medication should not be used during pregnancy, as it can harm the unborn baby. Reliable birth control methods should be used by women taking this medication. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk; therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use, including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products, to avoid any potential drug interactions. This medication may interact with blood thinners and corticosteroids, increasing the risk of edema and heart failure. This drug may also interfere with certain laboratory tests, potentially yielding false results.
QUESTION
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Do not share or sell this medication as it is against the law. Regular laboratory and medical tests should be performed to monitor progress and check for side effects. Store this medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep all medications out of children’s reach and dispose of them properly.
