Testosterone, a hormone produced in the testicles, assists in the development of male sexual characteristics.Testosterone replacement therapy compensates for decreased levels of testosterone in the human body caused by testicular injury, chronic illness, AIDS, chemotherapy, renal failure and other diseases and infections. While inadequate testosterone levels do not cause erectile dysfunction, testosterone replacement therapy often proves a successful treatment for the condition.
Intramuscular Injections
The convenience of an infrequent dosing schedule and low cost make intramuscular injections the most widely used type of testosterone replacement therapy. Deep intramuscular injections can cause patients some pain but not enough to cease therapy in most cases. According to an article published in 2004 in "Human Reproduction Update," some reports of brief coughing fits after injection exist, as well as wide variation in hormone levels and higher than normal blood cell counts. According to the Cleveland Clinic, intramuscular injections usually happen every two or three weeks.
Transdermal Patches
Transdermal patches used for testosterone replacement therapy are applied to the skin, most often the back, stomach, thighs or upper arms. The patches are generally put in place between 8:00 p.m. and midnight and remain in place for a full day with a wait time of seven days before application of the next patch. Transdermal patch side effects include burn-like blisters and other skin irritation in the patch location, enlarged or tender breasts, acne, depression, headache and urination problems. Some transdermal patches are worn on the scrotum; these patches are replaced daily.
Gel
Testosterone gels applied daily to the shoulders, upper arms or abdomen can successfully replace testosterone in the human body. Care must be taken to ensure the gel is washed off the hands completely to avoid exposing others to testosterone through skin contact. Children are vulnerable to negative side effects from testosterone exposure. These side effects include inappropriate enlargement of the external sexual organs, premature development of pubic hair, advanced bone age, increased self-stimulation and aggressive behavior.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Testosterone Replacement Therapy
- "Human Reproduction Update"; Testosterone Replacement Therapy: Current Trends and Future Directions; E. Nieschlag et al.; August 2004
- Consumer Reports: Testosterone Transdermal
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Safety Concerns About Testosterone Gel
