| name | Testosterone |
| classification | Androgen |
| pharmacokinetics | Testosterone is primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. Absorption and half-life vary significantly based on route of administration (e.g., topical, injection, oral). Excretion occurs primarily through the liver and kidneys. |
| dosage | Dosage varies significantly depending on the formulation and clinical indication. A healthcare professional must determine the appropriate dosage based on individual patient factors. |
| indications | | 1 | Hypogonadism (low testosterone levels) | | 2 | Delayed puberty | | 3 | Male breast cancer (in select cases, under strict medical supervision) | | 4 | Loss of libido (in select cases, after ruling out other potential causes) | | 5 | Muscle loss/wasting (in select cases, after considering other potential causes) |
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| safety pregnancy | ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED. Should not be used during pregnancy. |
| safety breastfeeding | Not recommended. May pass into breast milk. |
| side effects | | 1 | Acne | | 2 | Increased risk of prostate issues (benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer) | | 3 | Fluid retention | | 4 | Mood changes | | 5 | Sleep disturbances | | 6 | Hair loss | | 7 | Gynecomastia (breast enlargement) | | 8 | High blood pressure | | 9 | High cholesterol |
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| alternative therapies | | 1 | Finasteride (5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, for specific indications related to prostate health) | | 2 | Dutasteride (5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, for specific indications related to prostate health) | | 3 | Other hormone therapies for specific indications under strict medical supervision. |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to testosterone or its components | | 2 | Active prostate cancer | | 3 | Severe cardiovascular disease | | 4 | Severe liver disease |
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| drug interactions | Many medications and supplements can interact with testosterone. CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers significantly affect testosterone metabolism. A complete medication history is crucial. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Careful monitoring of blood testosterone levels and other relevant biomarkers is necessary. | | 2 | Patients with a family history of prostate cancer require increased surveillance. | | 3 | Regular monitoring of liver function and lipid profiles is necessary. | | 4 | Potential cardiovascular risks should be considered and managed appropriately. | | 5 | Use with extreme caution in patients with sleep apnea or a history of cardiovascular disease. |
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| additional information | Hormonal therapy should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals with expertise in endocrinology. Carefully consider the benefits and risks for each patient. Not appropriate for general use. |
| patient specific considerations | | case sensitive notes | A detailed medical history is essential for appropriate and safe prescription. A thorough evaluation of the reason for considering hormonal therapy is mandatory. |
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