AndroGel is a testosterone supplement provided in a clear topical gel. Physicians prescribe this medication for men and boys whose bodies do not produce enough testosterone, a disorder called hypogonadism. Symptoms of this condition may include delayed puberty, unexplained weight gain, fatigue, lack of beard and body hair growth, reduction in muscle mass, sexual dysfunction and infertility. AndroGel is associated with several dangerous side effects.
Prostate Issues
Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may develop worse symptoms when being treated with AndroGel, according to "Physicians' Desktop Reference" (PDR). These symptoms include increased nighttime urination, increased frequency and urgency, incontinence, urinary hesitation and weak flow. AndroGel may also increase the risk of prostate cancer and can worsen prostate cancer. Men should be screened for prostate cancer before beginning AndroGel therapy.
Breast Cancer
AndroGel can increase the risk of breast cancer in men, as explained by PDR. The medication also must not be used by men who already have breast cancer, according to the AndroGel official website.
Liver Considerations
Prolonged use of high-dose oral testosterone supplementation is associated with severe liver problems, including hepatitis, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Although these severe effects are not linked to AndroGel, AndroGel use does sometimes result in elevated liver enzymes. Men should not use excessive amounts of the medication.
Sleep Apnea
AndroGel use may lead to or worsen sleep apnea, a disorder in which breathing stops multiple times during sleep. This effect is most common in men with risk factors for sleep apnea, according to PDR, such as being overweight or having a chronic lung disease.
Edema
AndroGel may cause edema, a condition in which the body retains excessive sodium and water. This can be a serious issue for anyone with heart, kidney or liver disease, as noted by PDR. Steroids can worsen this side effect. A man using AndroGel who develops edema may need diuretic therapy to eliminate the problem.
Effects on Children and Women
If a child or woman comes into contact with AndroGel, this person may develop side effects, as Drugs.com explains. Contact includes touching a man's skin where he has applied AndroGel. If contact does occur, the individual should immediately wash with soap and water. Side effects in children or women can include enlarged genitals, premature pubic hair, heightened sex drive, aggression, scalp hair loss, unusual body hair growth, increased acne and irregular menstruation. Signs of puberty have been reported in young children accidentally exposed to AndroGel, according to the official website.
Other Concerns for Women
Pregnant women should avoid all contact with AndroGel because the medication can cause birth defects. Breastfeeding women also should avoid exposure to AndroGel, according to the official website, because testosterone can harm the baby.
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