Side effects of testosterone replacement therapy - Pain Management Message Board

brianpain33 · 08-08-2008, 09:14 PM

I would like to hear from anyone that has been using testosterone replacement therapy, especially Androgel. I have started using it do to the fact that my pain meds have lowered my testosterone too much.

1. Did you experience any side effects when first starting on it?
2. How long did it take for you to see any effects?
3. How long have you been taking it?
4. How often does your doctor do blood tests?
5. What time of the day do you apply it?
6. Have you had a problem with it transfering to your partner's skin?(what do you do differently to prevent this)

On the information leaflet it says the most common side effects are dizziness, nausea, vomiting. Has anyone experienced these?

brian

Executor · 08-08-2008, 09:20 PM

Hey Brian...I answered all these questions for you in your last thread, but will do so again.

It takes about two weeks to really notice a difference. Other than some minor increased heart beat the first day or two, you don't notice anything.

Docs usually do blood work once a year to confirm that your levels aren't too high, or too low. I've been on it for about two years....My brother about three years. Morning is the best time to apply since it mimics your own T production where T is highest in the AM. This is also why you want blood work drawn in the afternoon for a more regular level. Conversely, AM testing gives a "skewed" result.

You really don't have to worry about transferring it...Only if you have intimate contact right after application. Otherwise, it gets absorbed by your skin. One hour after application, you can't feel or smell anything. It's alcohol based so it gets absorbed (and dries) almost immediately.

Hope this helps, and good luck.

Ex

conductor · 08-08-2008, 09:30 PM

Dear Brian,

I will make these questions available to my Dad, who began Androgel treatment about 6 weeks ago. When I get the answers, I will give you the information.

My Dad takes Percocet 10's 4 times a day. For him, that's excessive medication. However, he requires this relief for his back. As well, he has become depressed, withdrawn, and physically lethargic. That's the short story, which is unusual for me--I realize I am far too verbose 99% of the time. So, don't get too used to it!

You are still on my daily list of prayer rememberances--so I believe in your long-term improvement, my friend (and I think of you that way).

Sincerely,
Jon (Conductor)

Executor · 08-09-2008, 08:38 AM

BTW, I forgot to mention that protocol call for a follow up appt in about 4-6 weeks for blood work to test your levels....They should test to see if your levels have come up substantially or not. Also, as I mentioned in other threads, they should be treating the "symptoms" and not the overall T....This is very important. One person could thrive on say a 350 #, while another one could have all sorts of problems. As a general rule, however, symptoms should begin to cease around 350-400 and you should feel remarkably better when you get to the 500 range.

Regards,

Ex

forginon · 08-09-2008, 05:01 PM

Brian,

I've been on Androgel for 3 months now.

Ex has done an outstanding job of providing answers.

I'll just say a few things.

No side effects. Took a few weeks to notice effects.

I use it first thing in the morning.

My doc likes to have blood drawn exactly one hour after using AndroGel.

My prescription is for AndroGel (testosterone gel 1%).

I have noticed a return of libido and "size." I no longer have a weird climax or ejaculation, but it does take me much longer to get there. I don't consider that a bad effect. It used to be that, even before opioids, the andi-Ds had a negative effect on ejaculation. That's gone with the AndroGel. Good news. eh?

BTW, I have stopped using Ultram. Actually, I'm down to 1-2 per day, from the full 400mg daily. Many reasons too numerous to go over in this post. But I'm sure that's also been positive for sexual relations.

steve