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Low Testosterone Treatments
Updated over a week ago

What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

Learn more from our blog article.

We're currently prescribing two medications for the treatment of low testosterone, Testogel and Clomifene. Here's some information on both medications.

Testogel

What is Testogel?

Testogel is a prescription medication that contains a form of testosterone. Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone in men. Testogel is generally used in adult men for conditions associated with a deficiency or absence of testosterone in the body. Here are some important safety considerations to keep in mind when using Testogel:

How long does it take to work?

Testogel is not a quick fix and needs to be used regularly as prescribed by your healthcare provider to maintain consistent testosterone levels, it can take 3 to 6 months before you start noticing the positive effects. It's important not to stop using it without discussing with your doctor, even if you feel better, as this could lead to your symptoms returning or getting worse. It is also important to take it as directed:

How do I use Testogel?

  1. Time it right: Apply the gel at the same time every morning to clean, dry, and healthy skin on the upper arm or shoulder.

  2. Spread carefully: Gently glide the gel across your skin in a thin, even layer - no need for a hard scrub.

  3. Clean hands: Wash your hands after applying to prevent accidental transfer to surfaces or other people.

  4. Practice patience: Wait at least 3-5 minutes before dressing, and make sure to cover the area with clothing. This reduces the risk of exposure to others.

  5. Watch out for water: Refrain from bathing or swimming for at least two hours after application. This prevents the gel from washing away.

What are the associated risks with Testogel treatment?

Testosterone can be transferred to other people if they come into contact with the application area. This could lead to growth and development of male characteristics in women or children. To avoid this, cover the application area with clothing once the gel has dried, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after applying the gel.

Testogel can cause skin reactions. If you experience a severe rash, redness, or irritation at the application site, stop using Testogel and contact us at [email protected]

Testogel may accelerate the growth of an underlying or existing prostate cancer, this is why regular blood testing with us is necessary.

Testogel can increase your red blood cell count to dangerous levels. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor this.

Testogel can suppress the production of new sperm (spermatogenesis) which could possibly lead to reduced sperm count and therefore possible reduced fertility and/or shrinkage of the testicles.

In some cases, Testogel can cause swelling and enlargement of breasts in men and may if you experience this please contact us at [email protected]

If you have heart disease, sleep apnea, or kidney or liver disease, you should talk to your doctor before using Testogel. The medication can cause complications in individuals with these conditions.

Testogel is not for use in women. However, if it comes into contact with the skin of a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, it can harm the baby.

Testogel is an alcohol-based product, which means it's flammable until it dries on the skin. Therefore, avoid smoking or going near open flames until the gel has completely dried after application.

Remember that Testogel may take some time to show its full effect. It can take between 3 to 6 months before you notice significant changes in your symptoms. During this period, your doctor may monitor your testosterone levels and adjust the dosage as necessary.

What follow-up is needed to continue taking treatment safely?

  • Regular follow-up and blood testing is crucial to monitor your testosterone levels and adjust your dosage as needed.

  • Do not apply Testogel until after you’ve had your bloods taken, and make sure to have bloods taken from the opposite arm that you apply Testogel as this could influence results

  • You’ll be able to get the most accurate testosterone readings in the morning, so make sure you book between 7:00am and 11:00am.

  • Dehydration can influence the results, so make sure you drink plenty of water the night before and the morning of your test.

  • Refrain from eating for 10 hours prior to the blood test to ensure accurate results.

Clomifene

What is Clomifene?

Clomifene citrate, traditionally used as a fertility drug in women, is also used off-label to treat low testosterone levels in men. This medication works by stimulating the body's own production of testosterone. Here are some important safety considerations when using clomifene:

How do I take Clomifene?

Always take clomifene exactly as your healthcare provider instructs. It is typically taken by mouth, with or without food, every other day.

What side effects can be caused by Clomifene?

Clomifene may cause temporary visual disturbances such as blurred vision. Notify your healthcare provider if this occurs. It may also be advisable to refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how clomifene affects you.

Some users of Clomifene have reported mood swings and even depression. If you experience emotional or psychological changes while taking this medication, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately.

While rare, clomifene can cause allergic reactions in some people. Seek immediate medical help if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

What follow-up is needed to continue taking treatment safely?

Important reminders for future blood test appointments:

  • Regular follow-up and blood testing is crucial to monitor your testosterone levels and adjust your dosage as needed.

  • You’ll be able to get the most accurate testosterone readings in the morning, so make sure you book between 7:00am and 11:00am.

  • Dehydration can influence the results, so make sure you drink plenty of water the night before and the morning of your test.

  • Refrain from eating for 10 hours prior to the blood test to ensure accurate results.

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