AndroGel is a prescription steroid used treat low testosterone levels in males. It contains testosterone, and is classified as a controlled substance due to concerns about potential abuse by people who want to gain muscle mass. The gel is applied to the skin, and is available in single-use packets and multi-use pumps.
Function
When AndroGel is applied to the skin, it dries and is absorbed into the body. The testosterone in the gel enters the bloodstream over a 24-hour period and restores the man's normal testosterone level. When used regularly, AndroGel effectively treats the symptoms of low testosterone, which include reduced bone density, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue and depressed mood.
Effects
A majority of men respond well to AndroGel. Most side effects are easily tolerated and do not require treatment. However, some men experience bothersome side effects like acne, headaches, enlarged prostate, and breast growth. Rarely, people can experience an allergic reaction to the carrier gel, which can cause an itchy rash or hives in the area the gel is applied.
Significance
If AndroGel is being used in the correct dose to treat low testosterone, it should not cause significant side effects, other than a possible reaction to the gel carrier. Bothersome caused by AndroGel are almost certainly a result of overtreatment of the condition, or misdiagnosis. The correct dose of AndroGel simply restores normal levels of testosterone to the body. The only exception to this is if AndroGel is being used to treat a female-to-male transsexual. In this case, side effects may occur as the female body adjusts to high levels of testosterone.
Considerations
AndroGel is not recommended for anyone under 18 years of age. It must not be used if the man has prostate cancer, breast cancer, or is allergic to the carrier gel. The elderly have an increased risk of prostate cancer or enlarged prostate when using this medication. Women must avoid AndroGel. In pregnant women, this drug causes the female fetus to develop male features. In nursing mothers, the drug can pass into the breast milk, causing side effects in the baby.
Warning
AndroGel must be applied by the patient himself. It is very important that women and children do not come in contact with the medication, because it can cause serious side effects. Women are much more sensitive to testosterone than men, and could experience permanent deepening of the voice, personality changes, acne and an enlarged clitoris if they use or frequently come in contact with this medication. Children who are exposed to AndroGel may stop growing. Boys may experience premature puberty, and girls may develop masculine features. AndroGel should be stored in a safe place out of reach of young children.
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