What side effects and serious risks should I know about with Testosterone therapy?

Possible side effects include acne, oily skin, irritation where cream is applied, and pain or redness at an injection site. Breast tenderness, swelling, and mood changes can also occur. Tell your prescriber about new symptoms or side effects that bother you. Do not adjust your dose on your own.

Testosterone can raise blood pressure and red blood cell counts. It may worsen sleep apnea and can reduce sperm production and fertility. Discuss plans for having children before starting. Tell your physician about heart disease, blood clots, urinary problems, or a history of prostate or breast cancer. These details can affect whether treatment is appropriate.

Call 911 for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or a severe allergic reaction. Get urgent care for an erection that lasts longer than four hours. Contact a clinician promptly for a painful, swollen leg.

Regular follow-up visits and blood tests help your physician check safety. Keep these appointments even if you feel well. Cream can also expose other people through skin contact, so follow all transfer precautions.