The male hormone testosterone is produced in the testicles. Women also produce a small amount in their ovaries. Testosterone helps men develop in puberty and aids him in normal sexual desire and activity in adulthood. If your body is not producing enough testosterone, you may need to take supplements. Your doctor may prescribe the male hormone, or you may take it as an over-the-counter supplement, such as P-6. While the prescribed form has undergone government-approved clinical testing, the OTC variety, such as P-6, does not require the same U.S. Food & Drug Administration approval. However, it's important to discuss taking this supplement with your health care professional, as it does have some side effects.
Rapid Weight Gain
Men may gain weight rapidly when taking a testosterone supplement such as P-6. This type of weight gain classifies as a serious side effect, according to Drugs.com. Notify your doctor right away if this occurs. He may recommended cessation of P-6 or advise you on how to counteract this side effect.
Changes in Erections
Taking P-6 supplements or adding testosterone into your body may induce and increase penis erections. This also classifies as a serious side effect, especially if you maintain the erections longer than normal, which can be a painful condition. If the penis continues an ongoing erection, a trip to the emergency room may be necessary. If this does occur, notify your doctor.
Increased Thirst
Your body may react to the increased testosterone levels in your body from the P-6 supplement by expelling excess fluid and requiring more liquid than normal. Increased thirst, another potentially serious side effect of P-6, requires a doctor's attention, as does an increase in urination this condition normally brings.
Gastric Disturbances
You may feel sick to your stomach or even vomit undigested food when you take testosterone-enhancing supplements, MayoClinic.com indicates. You may experience flu-like symptoms, pain in your stomach and a decrease in appetite. If any of these side effects occurs while taking P-6, speak with your physician immediately.
Swelling
When taking P-6 as a supplement, you may experience swelling of the breasts, even as a man, Drugs.com reports. Although this does not constitute a serious problem--and should go away as your body adjusts to P-6--notify your physician if this symptom continues.
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