When might testosterone therapy be unsafe or need extra review?

A low testosterone result does not automatically mean treatment is safe. Your physician must weigh the cause of the low level against your health risks. Known or suspected prostate cancer or male breast cancer generally rules out treatment unless an appropriate specialist determines otherwise.

High hematocrit, untreated severe sleep apnea, severe urinary symptoms, uncontrolled heart failure, or a recent heart attack or stroke may make treatment unsuitable or require further evaluation. A history of blood clots or a clotting disorder also needs careful review. Tell your physician if you plan to have children.

Share a complete list of prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, hormones, and supplements. Testosterone may affect how blood thinners such as warfarin work. It may also change blood sugar control in people using diabetes medicines. Using it with certain steroid medicines may increase swelling.

Do not stop other prescribed medicines to qualify for testosterone. A licensed physician in your state should decide whether treatment is appropriate and whether specialist care or additional testing is needed first.