Testosterone, an androgen hormone produced naturally by both males and females, plays a key role in the development of sex-related features such as a deep voice, body and facial hair and genital tissues. Testosterone levels within a normal range allow both males and females to pass through puberty and into fully functioning adulthood, but high or low levels can interfere with sexuality and fertility. While injections of the supplement testosterone enanthate can correct some of these issues, this drug has significant side effects.
Endocrine and Genitourinary Problems
Testosterone enanthate injections can cause irregularities in a woman's menstrual cycle and lead to irreversible sex-related changes such as a deep voice and enlarged clitoris. In men, the drug can cause prolonged or frequent erections as well as enlarged breasts. Men and women may experience either an increase or a decrease in libido. Daily Med recommends notifying the physician if a man's erections are too frequent or prolonged, or if a woman develops increased facial hair, acne, hoarseness or a deeper voice.
Effects on Skin and Hair
Testosterone enanthate can cause excess hair growth, acne and male pattern baldness, according to Drugs.com. Some people report redness and swelling at the site where the drug was injected, but this effect typically resolves within a day or two.
Body-Wide Effects
Testosterone enanthate can create significant systemic, or body-wide, effects, such as fluid and electrolyte imbalance, elevated blood cholesterol and abnormal bleeding due to clotting disorders. The drug can also cause widespread muscle weakness and swelling, says Drugs.com. These metabolic effects should be reported to a health care provider before they cause more chronic medical conditions.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Testosterone enanthate injections can cause nausea, vomiting and liver disorders, including cancer. Daily Med recommends regular liver function testing to detect early signs of liver damage.
Allergic Reaction
Some people are allergic to testosterone enanthate, developing a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis within minutes or hours of the injection, according to Drugs.com. It's important to seek medical attention right away for facial swelling, hives, itching or breathing difficulties.
Respiratory Problems
Testosterone enanthate is an oil-based drug that has to be injected deep into one of the gluteal muscles of the buttocks. If it's accidentally injected into a blood vessel instead of the muscle, the drug can travel to the lungs and cause prolonged coughing or respiratory distress, according to Drugs.com.
