Hormonal imbalances can occur at any age and affect both men and women. The primary hormone in men is testosterone. As age increases, testosterone levels decline and can lead to a condition known as andropause or more commonly “low-T.” Testosterone deficiency may lead to decreased concentration, lethargy, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and depression among other side effects.

How can compounds help?

There are several effective products that exist on the commercial market to help with symptom management. If you have low testosterone and if the current available treatment options are not a good fit for you, your compounding pharmacies can work with your medical provider to create a testosterone formulation for you. These medications may be for oral or topical use. With proper monitoring and dosage adjustments, compounded testosterone formulations can help control symptoms associated with low-T in a safe manner.

Serious side effects have been reported with testosterone including the following:

• Blood clots in the legs or lungs. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice pain or swelling in the legs, redness of the legs, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.
• Possible increased risk of heart attack. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a heart attack. Symptoms include:
  • chest pain
  • feeling of pressure in the chest
  • shortness of breath
  • discomfort in the neck, back, shoulder, or arms
  • nausea/vomiting
  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • sweating
• Possible increased risk of stroke. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a stroke. Symptoms include:
  • sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body (can be in the face, arm or leg)
  • sudden confusion
  • difficulty speaking
  • sudden change in vision
  • sudden trouble walking (may experience loss of balance or coordination).
• Possible increased risk of prostate cancer. Your healthcare provider will check for prostate cancer before and during treatment with testosterone.
• Edema with or without heart failure. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice swelling of your ankles, feet, or body.

This is not a complete list of testosterone serious side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Compounding requires a relationship between the patient, physician, and pharmacist. Together, they will work to provide an alternative treatment option when and if the current available treatment options are not the best fit for you.