Many men who were convinced they had symptoms of “Low-T” began taking testosterone supplements and are now dismayed to find that these supplements may be responsible for a variety of extremely serious health issues. One study, published in the Journal of American Medical Association, concluded there was a 29% increase in heart attack, stroke and death among men taking testosterone. Another study conducted by a Cincinnati doctor found a correlation between blood clots and testosterone drugs. Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism may also be among the serious side effects of testosterone therapy.
In fact, treating the symptoms of “Low-T” may end up doing significantly more harm than good. The various testosterone drugs are approved by the FDA only for the treatment of hypogonadism, endocrine tumors and for those receiving chemotherapy. Hypogonadism is a medical condition in which the body stops producing testosterone, and the naturally occurring effects of aging do not fall under that category even though a man’s testosterone levels decrease 1-3% each year after the age of 30. Marketing for testosterone drugs has convinced many men that if their energy levels are flagging, they are experiencing a decrease in bone density, strength or muscle mass, gaining weight in the belly region, experiencing erectile dysfunction or a loss of libido, or just need an occasional nap in the afternoon, they are experiencing symptoms of Low-T.
The reality is, most men are experiencing nothing other than the normal effects of aging, yet doctors issued over 5 million prescriptions (including refills) for testosterone supplements just last year. The testosterone boom has translated into a $2 billion per year industry. This January, 2014, the demand for testosterone supplements was so high that there was actually a shortage of the drugs. Considering the potentially serious side effects of testosterone drugs, the FDA has advised doctors to carefully conduct a risk vs. benefit assessment prior to prescribing testosterone for any man, absent a valid diagnosis of hypogonadism.
Are You Aware of the Potential Side Effects of Depo-Testosterone?
Depo-Testosterone gained FDA approval on July 25, 1979, and is manufactured by Pharmacia and Upjohn. Depo-Testosterone is administered as an intramuscular injection, in 100 or 200 mg. strength. Instructions given with Depo-Testosterone list the potential serious side effects of the drug as swelling, rapid weight gain, bone pain, increased thirst, problems with memory, feelings of restlessness, confusion, loss of appetite, increased urination, muscle twitching or weakness, stomach pains, liver problems and jaundice. The insert also states that those with a bleeding or clotting disorder, high cholesterol, any type of cancer, liver or kidney disease, coronary artery disease or a history of heart attack should discuss whether it is safe for them to take Depo-Testosterone.
Getting the Help You Need
Heart attack, stroke, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and even death—these are serious potential risks. If you have been harmed by a testosterone drug, it could be advantageous to speak to a skilled testosterone injury lawyer.