The hormones responsible for male development are called androgens. Specifically, the dominant hormone in men is the androgen testosterone. Testosterone supports genitalia development during puberty, and facilitates male pattern hair growth such as the beard, chest hair and pubic hair. It is also responsible for laryngeal enlargement, deepening of the voice, and alterations in body musculature and fat distribution in men. Cypionate is a synthetic testosterone developed for men who suffer a loss of the testicles or loss of function of the testicles, where natural testosterone is made. Cypionate mimics testosterone but can have serious long-term side effects.
Genital Effects
Men with an enlarged prostates due to benign prostatic hypertrophy should not take Cypionate. Because of the affects that cypionate has on cell growth, it can cause further abnormal growth of the prostate, resulting in urethral obstruction. Urethral obstruction impairs the passage of urine from the bladder. Prolonged use of Cypionate can affect sperm counts and cause a lack of sperm. Prolonged, painful erections known as priapism, can result with long-term use of cypionate. Gynecomastia, or enlarged breasts in men, as well as shrinking of the testicles, are also side effects of Cypionate usage.
Behavior Changes
Long-term users of testosterone and those who abuse testosterone often feel good about themselves but according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, this sense of well-being often can lead to severe mood swings and violence. Use of Cypionate can cause changes in behavior because it affects the limbic system, which is responsible for mood, memory and learning. Aggression, psychiatric dysfunction, paranoid jealously, extreme irritability, delusions and impaired judgment are seen in men using testosterone over long periods.
Liver Damage
Long-term use of Cypionate is associated with liver damage and jaundice, as well as the development of cancer of the liver and prostate in rare cases. Fluid retention and heart failure are also seen in men using testosterone for long periods. Cypionate is also associated with tremors, renal failure and severe acne. Men who are worried about cholesterol should not use Cypionate, as long-term use can increase LDL cholesterol, or bad cholesterol and decrease HDL cholesterol, or good cholesterol.
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