Testosterone is a naturally occurring male hormone that plays major roles in the growth, development and functioning of the male sexual organs and characteristics. Testosterone aids in the growth of the testes and prostate and thereafter brings about development of increased muscle, bone mass and hair growth. Testosterone supplements are used in the treatment of the occurring symptoms of low testosterone in men who do not produce enough testosterone. Prolonged use of testosterone or overdosing can be hazardous.
Heart and Liver Damage
According to a study published in the 9th Volume of the 2010 issue of the "Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances," one of the hazards of testosterone supplements is heart and liver damage. Clinical trials showed that prolonged use of testosterone supplements increases the risk of heart and liver damage. This is even more so in young male teenagers who already have a lot of testosterone being produced in the body. People using testosterone supplements are therefore advised not to use them for too long or to take them in higher doses than prescribed.
Depression and Mood Changes
One of the hazards of testosterone supplements as listed down by Medline Plus is depression and mood changes. Depression and mood changes in patients using testosterone supplements can occur in two ways. Prolonged use of the testosterone supplements can make the user become easily irritable and even violent. The second method occurs due to the lack of the testosterone supplements for which the user has acquired a physical dependency for. The Medical University of South Carolina found in their studies and clinical trials that withdrawal from or reduced amounts of testosterone led to depressive symptoms.
Unwanted Weight Gain
One of the hazards of testosterone supplements noted at MayoClinic.com is a sudden and rapid unwanted weight gain. Not all of the people using testosterone supplements are using them to increase their mass, for some it may be for example to treat decreased sexual desire or ability. Testosterone however has the main effect of building up muscle mass. This means that if the user is not really exercising then there will be a sudden gain in weight.
