Depo-Testosterone is an intramuscular injection-ready solution of testosterone cypionate manufactured by Pfizer Inc. According to DailyMed, it is used to treat testosterone deficiency. Testosterone replacement therapy can also improve bone density and help replace muscle for people with AIDS and certain types of cancer. Despite the benefits of treatment with Depo-Testoserone, it is essential to examine the potential side effects before beginning testosterone replacement therapy with a physician.
Androgenic Changes
Depo-Testosterone is classified as an anabolic-androgenic steroid. The anabolic portion of this definition refers to such properties of the hormone as its ability to increase muscle mass, bone density and energy. The androgenic side refers to the steroid's tendency to enhance and produce male characteristics in both males and females. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services AIDSinfo, androgenic side effects of Depo-Testosterone in men may include excessive growth of body hair, male pattern baldness and the appearance of acne, usually on the face and back. For women, potential androgenic side effects include deepening of the voice, clitoral enlargement and menstrual irregularities.
Mood Changes
Hormones affect mood, and Depo-Testosterone is no exception. According to the National Guideline Clearinghouse, fluctuations in mood and libido are side effects of concern with testosterone cypionate injections. Although Depo-Testosterone commonly creates an increased sense of well-being, depending on the individual, feelings of aggression or invincibility may also arise with use of the hormone. Sex drive may increase or decrease dramatically. Anxiety and depression are also potential side effects.
Other Side Effects
Since testosterone cypionate is an injection solution, there is always the risk of redness, pain or infection at the injection site. A host of various other problematic side effects may arise, including nausea, diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain, bladder irritability, dizziness and back pain, according to AIDSinfo.
Serious and Long-Term Risks
The National Guideline Clearinghouse states that testosterone therapy may increase the chances of metastatic prostate cancer. Additionally, pregnant women should not receive testosterone cypionate injections due to possible harm to the fetus. There is also evidence that Depo-Testosterone can lead to lowered sperm count and even infertility in men. It is crucial to discuss the possibility of these serious, long-term risk factors with a prescribing physician before beginning treatment with Depo-Testosterone. Only a physician or endocrinologist--taking into account the impact of personal and family medical history, among many other factors--can make the final decision on whether Depo-Testosterone is the right treatment option.
References
- DailyMed: DEPO-TESTOSTERONE (testosterone cypionate) injection, solution
- Pfizer: Depo®-Testosterone testosterone cypionate injection, USP
- National Guideline Clearinghouse: Testosterone therapy in adult men with androgen deficiency syndromes: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline.
- AIDSinfo: Testosterone
