Indications
Testosterone Phenylpropionate is an ester (chemical form) of the male hormone testosterone. It is used mainly as one component of combined testosterone injections for men with low testosterone caused by problems of the testicles or the pituitary gland (male hypogonadism). Low testosterone can cause reduced sex drive, erection problems, low energy, low mood, and loss of muscle strength and bone density.
How It Works
Once injected into muscle, the phenylpropionate ester is gradually split to free testosterone. It works fairly quickly and lasts a short to medium time, so in a mixed injection it helps raise hormone levels in the first days and weeks. The released testosterone acts like the body’s own hormone on muscles, bones, skin, blood and sexual organs.
Dosage and Administration
Given as a deep intramuscular injection by a doctor or nurse. The dose and the interval between injections are set by the doctor as prescribed, guided by blood testosterone levels and how you feel. It should never be used without a prescription or for bodybuilding.
Interactions
- Warfarin and similar anticoagulants: stronger blood thinning effect.
- Insulin and oral medicines for diabetes: may lower blood sugar further.
- Corticosteroids and Adrenocorticotropic hormone: more swelling from fluid retention.
Contraindications
Not to be used by men with known or suspected prostate or breast cancer, in high blood calcium due to cancer, in pregnancy or breastfeeding, or by anyone allergic to the ingredients, including peanut or soya oil if present in the injection. Not for women or children unless a specialist decides.
Side Effects
- Acne, greasy skin, hair loss or extra body hair.
- Injection site pain.
- Swelling of ankles, weight gain, high blood pressure.
- Raised red blood cell count, breast enlargement, mood swings or aggression.
- Lower sperm production during treatment.
Get urgent medical help for chest pain, shortness of breath, a painful swollen leg, signs of stroke, yellowing of skin or eyes, an erection lasting over 4 hours, or swelling of the face and throat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Not to be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding: it may harm the baby, especially by causing male features in a female baby.
Precautions and Warnings
Regular checks of blood count, PSA (a prostate test), liver function and blood fats are needed. Use with care in heart failure, kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, migraine, diabetes and sleep apnoea. Abuse at high doses can harm the heart and liver, cause infertility and change behaviour. In young people it can stop growth early.
Overdose
Too much over time can cause thick blood, fluid build-up and the side effects listed above. Tell your doctor if you think you have received too much.
Therapeutic Class
Androgen (male sex hormone).
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light, not in the fridge, and out of the reach of children. In hospital, follow the directions on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.