AndroGel is a hormone replacement therapy for men who suffer from hypogonadism, a low level of testosterone. Some of the symptoms of not having enough testosterone include impotence, a lack of interest in sex, moodiness, development of brittle bones and lack of muscularity. AndroGel can help with many of these symptoms but it does produce side effects.
Acne
One of the primary side effects of applying and using AndroGel is the development of acne. This acne will usually appear at the site where the AndroGel was applied--shoulders and chest--but it may appear in other areas as well. The acne can last for several weeks before starting to dissipate. About 8 percent of men who use AndroGel get acne as a side effect.
Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate is the most common symptom suffered by those who take Androgel. It has been reported in 11.7 percent of the men who use the hormone replacement therapy. When a prostate enlarges, it often causes physiological problems for many once they have reached the age of 40. When the prostate gets bigger, it presses against the urethra. It becomes makes it difficult for a man to urinate and eventually weakens the bladder.
Headaches
About 4 percent of the men who take AndroGel report that they develop more frequent headaches than they have had in the past. The headaches can last for hours and will have an impact on the ability to concentrate and complete a task at work. The headaches can be treated with over-the-counter headache remedies like aspirin or ibuprofen.
Other side effects
Some of the other side effects of AndroGel include breast development, breast soreness, chills, hair loss, emotional instability and dry skin. These individual symptoms have been reported in 1 to 3 percent of AndroGel users.
