Testosterone

Pronounced tes-TOS-ter-one

Brand names: AndroGel, Depo-Testosterone

Type: Androgen (male hormone) · All Hormone & Endocrine Medicines

What Testosterone is used for

• Low testosterone in men (hypogonadism)
• Delayed puberty in boys, on specialist advice

Common side effects

• Acne
• Skin irritation at gel or patch sites
• Increased red blood cell count
• Breast tenderness
• Reduced sperm production

Important cautions

• Can raise red blood cell counts and affect the prostate — blood tests and prostate checks are monitored
• Gel can transfer to partners and children through skin contact — application sites must be covered and hands washed
• It suppresses sperm production and is not used when trying to conceive

How it comes

Gel, skin patches, injection, pellets under the skin. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.