Keep all doctor and lab appointments, especially if you are undergoing Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Westbrook ME. Your doctor may order certain tests to check your body's response to this specific type of therapy. It is important to regularly monitor your blood pressure before and during treatment with Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Westbrook ME. This form of treatment is commonly used to address symptoms of low testosterone levels in men with hypogonadism, a condition in which the body does not produce enough natural testosterone. Testosterone is used only for men with low testosterone levels caused by certain medical conditions, such as disorders of the testicles, the pituitary (a small gland in the brain), or the hypothalamus (a part of the brain) that cause hypogonadism.
Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your testosterone levels and see if they are low before you start taking it. Testosterone should not be used to treat symptoms of low testosterone in men who have low testosterone levels due to age (“age-related hypogonadism”). Testosterone is a hormone produced by the body that contributes to the growth, development and function of male sexual organs and to typical male characteristics. Testosterone works by replacing the testosterone that the body normally produces.
Testosterone comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken with food twice a day (in the morning and in the evening). Take testosterone at around the same time each day. Follow the instructions on the medication label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain anything you don't understand. Do not take more or less of the medication or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Testosterone can control your symptoms, but it won't cure your condition. Your doctor may adjust your testosterone dose based on the amount of testosterone in your blood during treatment and your reaction to the medication. Testosterone can cause a decrease in the number of sperm (male reproductive cells) produced, especially if used in high doses. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication if you are a man and would like to have children. Testosterone may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Talk to your doctor about the risks of receiving this medication. Testosterone may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication. Before having any laboratory tests, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking testosterone. Do not let anyone else use your medication. Prescription drugs can only be refilled a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.
To protect young children from poisoning, always lock the safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe place, raised, out of sight and reach. It is important to keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children, as many containers (such as weekly pills and eye drops, creams, patches and inhalers) are not resistant to children and can be easily opened by young children. Medications that are not needed should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children and others they cannot consume them. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
In contrast, long-acting opioids release medication slowly and are usually taken every eight to twelve hours. The transdermal testosterone patch may interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you are taking. Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer's patient information sheet (Medication Guide) when you start treatment with testosterone and each time you refill your recipe. The easiest way to search for drug information, identify pills, check interactions and create your own personal medication records.
