Testopel

Special warnings about Testopel

In rare instances, Testopel pellets may be expelled due to improper insertion or infection. Contact your doctor if you notice any of the pellets coming out, or if you have an infection with redness, swelling, or pus.

Testopel can cause a buildup of fluids in the body. People with a history of heart, kidney, or liver problems should use Testopel with caution. Contact your doctor if you experience too frequent or persistent erections, nausea, vomiting, changes in skin color, or ankle swelling.

Testopel should be used very cautiously in children. The hormone may cause bones to mature and stop lengthening before they should. If Testopel has been prescribed to treat delayed puberty, the doctor will take x-rays every 6 months to make sure the bones are growing properly.

When given for breast cancer, androgens can leach calcium from the bones and cause a buildup of calcium in the blood. If this happens, androgen therapy must be discontinued.

In people with diabetes, Testopel may reduce blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic, your doctor will want to watch you closely.

You should be aware that men treated with androgens have an increased risk of prostate and liver problems, including prostate and liver cancer.

The safety and effectiveness of Testopel for improving athletic performance have not been established. Due to its potentially serious side effects, it should never be used for that purpose.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Testopel

If Testopel is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Testopel with the following:

• Blood thinning drugs, such as Coumadin
• Oxyphenbutazone (Oxalid, Tandearil)
• Insulin

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Androgens such as Testopel can cause masculinization of the genitals in a developing female baby, and should never be used during pregnancy.