The Use of Testosterone Gels To Treat Hypogonadism
Popular Low T Treatment But Are They Safe?
Another prescription testosterone boosting treatment often favoured by doctors are testosterone based gels.
Commonly used to treat androgen deficiency in men which can cause decreases in energy, sex drive and metabolism.
These gels are quite simply a topically applied gel that is applied to a part of the skin once a day.. As the gel is absorbed, the active testosterone hormone is also passed through the skin and into the bloodstream.
They are unique in the fact that any side effects caused by the treatment can be passed to others through contact with the treated area – something that needs to be addressed at all times to stop any secondary exposure.
Using Testosterone Gel
They are easy to apply, its recommended that the gel is rubbed into a clean, preferably hairless part of the body… most doctors recommend the upper arms, shoulders, chest and in some cases the stomach… You should never rub Testosterone gel into the genital area in particular the scrotum.
Its always advised to vary the area daily where the gel is applied, rotating every 7 days.
Benefits Of Testosterone Gel
As with other forms of low T treatment, users should experience increased energy levels, better sleep and moods, along with a boost in sex drive and muscle tone.
Risks Of Testosterone Gels
The side effects of testosterone gels can include
- Headaches
- Dry skin and/or acne
- Insomnia
- Muscle pain
- Anxiety
- Reduced sperm count
- Decreased libido
Other more serious effects can include
- Increased risk of heart problems
- Increased blood red cell count ( which can lead to strokes)
- Enlarged prostate – possibility of cancer developing
- Jaundice
- Breathing Difficulties
Secondary Exposure
There is a real risk of those around you becoming affected by the testosterone treatment, if they come into contact with the treated area..
In Women – this can result in increased acne and unusual/irregular hair growth…
In Children – the problem is far more worrying and can cause numerous problems including:
- Premature development of the sexual organs
- Early growth of pubic hair
- Frequent Erections in males
- Enlarged Clitoris in females
- Increased Aggression
- Bone Problems.
To avoid secondary exposure problems, you must always wash your hands thoroughly after applying the gel and always cover the treated area with clothing. If skin to skin contact is expected ( making love to your wife for instance) always allow at least 4 hours after application before such contact.
Lawsuits Concerning Testosterone Gels
There are currently some well publicised lawsuits involving certain manufacturers and their products ( Androgel and Testim are two in particular) the makers of these products are being sued by patients who claim that using their testosterone gels caused them to have heart attacks (one man had three) – a health risk that they claim was not made clear beforehand to either the prescribing doctors or the patients themselves.
The FDA are now looking at these and other gel based products and have ruled that all the health risks should be fully displayed on the labels of all testosterone gel boxes.
Conclusion
Although testosterone gels can have their benefits, there are some well publicised risks surrounding their uses.. its imperative that you only use these gels strictly under a doctors guidance and prescription.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR –
I am 60 years old, I currently live in London. I have one married daughter aged 35
I have always had a passion for fitness, In my younger days I was a keen swimmer and competed at county level both at home and abroad. I am also a keen squash and tennis player and have always been a keen gym goer.
I have a CPD accreditation in Sports Nutrition and am a published author with my articles featuring in some popular publications.
Over the past 13 years I have studied the effects of testosterone both in the younger man and as we get older, the effects of low or reduced testosterone and how increasing its production can really improve your health.
On a personal level, a number of years ago, I was diagnosed with Low-T myself, and my own in-depth research has helped me to redress my own health concerns.