Since increased reports of low testosterone (particularly in men) is a relatively new concern in the medical community, solutions have sprung up quickly and come with unknown risks.
More and more men have begun using different forms of low T treatments, but some negative side effects are starting to emerge. The FDA and other accountability groups are demanding more tests and urging doctors and patients to proceed with caution.
Some of the more serious side effects include attacks on the cardiovascular system, such as blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. In rare cases, the extended use of testosterone-boosting drugs can lead to breast cancer in men.
If you or someone you love feels that they may be suffering from low testosterone, you should consult with your doctor to verify the condition before self-medicating with over-the-counter solutions.
If a doctor prescribes you testosterone to treat your symptoms, make sure to discuss the possible risks associated with the drug and any family history of heart conditions.
Here are some of the common forms of low T treatments that have been known to lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks.
Oral
Often in pill form, oral low T treatments are common. They can also be consumed as a legal form of anabolic steroids.
While testosterone pills come with directions for how often you should take them, this kind of treatment is often abused or overused.
Injections
Also known as testosterone shots, these are considered the most potent form of low T treatment. Some men inject themselves in the thigh area, or a doctor can inject them on one side of the buttocks.
Those who are on low T therapy may be directed to take a shot once every 1-3 weeks.
Mouth Patch
Two times a day, patients can apply a patch to the top of their mouths, typically on the gums near the teeth, just to the left or right of the center of the mouth.
Throughout the course of the day, the patch releases testosterone orally into the blood.
Skin Patch
For skin patches, doctors typically prescribe the appropriate testosterone levels according to the amount of low T therapy required. Patients can wear them on their arms, legs, back, or abdomen (as directed by instructions).
Gels
Testosterone gels are perhaps the most common and easily-obtained low T treatment available. Patients apply the gel to parts of the arms covered by a short-sleeved shirt. Other gels recommend an application to shoulders, back, thighs, and abdomen.
While packages typically recommend one use each day, patients have been known to over-apply or apply directly to the penis. In addition to the negative side effects of low T treatments, testosterone gel misuse can lead to even more severe health complications.
Another danger of testosterone gel occurs when the gel comes into contact with others. Even a casual brush can cause another person to absorb testosterone from the gel. Women and children have experienced numerous negative effects, including unusual hair growth and accelerated puberty.
If anyone you know begins to demonstrate these symptoms after coming into contact with a testosterone-treated area, encourage them to seek medical attention and to inform their doctor that they came into contact with testosterone gel.
If you or someone you love has already experienced blood clots, stroke, or heart attack after using one or more of these treatments, you should consult with a drug injury attorney right away. You may be eligible for compensation for any medical bills and damages associated with your heart condition.
For more information about how an Indiana drug injury attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.