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The effects of testosterone in humans and other vertebrates occur by way of two main mechanisms: by activation of the androgen receptor (directly or as DHT), and by conversion to estradiol and activation of certain estrogen receptors.
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Product details
Testosterone (Testosterone undecanoate - oral capsule)
Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone called an androgen. Testosterone is produced in the testes in men, and small amounts are produced by the ovaries and adrenal cortex in women. Testosterone is used in men and boys to treat conditions due to androgen deficiency, such as lack of natural testosterone, delayed puberty, and impotence. Testosterone may be used by women to treat some types of cancer.
Take this medication by mouth as directed, usually once or twice a day. This is best taken after a meal to reduce stomach upset. Swallow capsules whole. Try to take this medication at the same time each day so you get in the habit of taking it. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. It will have no greater benefits but the risk of side effects will be increased.
The effects of testosterone in humans and other vertebrates occur by way of two main mechanisms: by activation of the androgen receptor (directly or as DHT), and by conversion to estradiol and activation of certain estrogen receptors.
Free testosterone (T) is transported into the cytoplasm of target tissue cells, where it can bind to the androgen receptor, or can be reduced to 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the cytoplasmic enzyme 5alpha-reductase. DHT binds to the same androgen receptor even more strongly than T, so that its androgenic potency is about 2.5 times that of T. The T-receptor or DHT-receptor complex undergoes a structural change that allows it to move into the cell nucleus and bind directly to specific nucleotide sequences of the chromosomal DNA. The areas of binding are called hormone response elements (HREs), and influence transcriptional activity of certain genes, producing the androgen effects.
Androgen receptors occur in many different vertebrate body system tissues, and both males and females respond similarly to similar levels. Greatly differing amounts of testosterone prenatally, at puberty, and throughout life account for a large share of biological differences between males and females.
The bones and the brain are two important tissues in humans where the primary effect of testosterone is by way of aromatization to estradiol. In the bones, estradiol accelerates maturation of cartilage into bone, leading to closure of the epiphyses and conclusion of growth. In the central nervous system, testosterone is aromatized to estradiol. Estradiol rather than testosterone serves as the most important feedback signal to the hypothalamus (especially affecting LH secretion). In many mammals, prenatal or perinatal "masculinization" of the sexually dimorphic areas of the brain by estradiol derived from testosterone programs later male sexual behavior.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, and use only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication.
Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Before taking this drug, notify your doctor of any disease you have, especially: cancer of the prostate or breast (males), liver problems, kidney problems, heart disease, enlarged prostate, drug allergies. High dosage, long-term use of androgens has been related to liver cancer. Discuss your medicine with your doctor/pharmacist. This drug must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Breast feeding should be avoided while using this medicine. Females should be monitored for signs of virilization, such as deepening of the voice, facial hair, acne, menstrual irregularity, or clitoral enlargement. Consult your doctor promptly if any of these symptoms occur. Use in children should be undertaken with extreme caution due to the possibility this drug may have undesirable effects related to the growth of the child. Geriatric men are at higher risk for developing enlarged prostates or prostate cancer when taking this medication.
Possible Side Effects
Stomach upset, headache or acne may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Other side effects include increased hair growth on the face or body, anxiety, change in sex drive, sleeplessness, increased urination and depression. Males may experience enlargement of breasts and an increase in the frequency and duration of erections. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify doctor if you develop: a skin rash, dark urine, pale stools, yellowing of the eyes or skin, muscle aches, vomiting, swelling hands or feet, difficult urination, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience nausea, vomiting, swelling of the arms or legs, prolonged or painful erections, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. These may be early signs of serious side effects.
If you are a woman using testosterone, notify your doctor if you experience hoarseness, deepening of the voice, male-pattern baldness, excessive hair growth, or menstrual irregularities.
If you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives), stop using testosterone and seek emergency medical attention.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use testosterone and talk to your doctor if you experience:
hoarseness or deepening voice;
acne;
clitoral enlargement;
increased or decreased sex drive;
increased hair growth or male pattern baldness; or
decreased sperm production (men).
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.