Articles and ContentProblems with Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Problems with Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy can be used for men to increase energy levels, increase libido, enhance mood, increase bone density and muscle mass, and increase insulin sensitivity. It is a fairly new treatment method. The long-term effects, risks, and benefits are not known- only the symptoms it helps to alleviate in the short term. Testosterone can be delivered by patches, gels, mouth patches, injections, or implants. In females, estrogen delivery by patch method was shown to deliver far too high of a hormone dose. Females sometimes receive testosterone therapy. Symptoms that a doctor might seek to treat with testosterone therapy are:  

  • Low sex drive 
  • Erectile dysfunction 
  • Fatigue (low energy levels) 
  • Difficulty concentrating 
  • Depression Irritability 
  • Decreased well-being

Side effects that have been noted associated with testosterone therapy are:

  • Breast effects Benign prostatic hyperplasia
  • Congestive heart failure 
  • Erythrocytosis (increased red blood cell count) 
  • Increased fluid retention (edema or swelling) 
  • Natural sperm production is decreased or absent 
  • Prostate cancer 
  • Rash/itching at the site of application if patch delivery method is used 
  • Sleep apnea

Contraindications (instances when it should NOT be used) for testosterone replacement therapy are people with the following conditions:

  • Breast cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia
  • Heart conditions
  • Liver problems
  • Thrombolytic conditions (such as stroke, DVT, hypercoagulation issues)

Some new drugs or therapies are welcomed as the boon of modern science and medicine when first used-only to be renounced a few years later for causing additional major health issues. 

If you or a loved one were harmed by the use of testosterone therapies, you may be eligible for monetary damages. Call the Sweeney Law Firm and let us review the facts to see if you have a medical malpractice case. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if there is a settlement or recovery of funds made on your behalf.

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