Has your doctor told you that your testosterone levels are low? Sometimes you may feel tired and lack energy. You may have been prescribed a patch to treat this. This may seem a bit new to you. But don't worry. Today, we'll talk about what a testosterone patch is, how to use it, and what you need to know about it.
What is this testosterone patch?
Simply put, testosterone is the main hormone in the male body. It belongs to the group of hormones called androgens. This hormone is essential for many things in men, including muscle growth, body hair growth, deepening of the voice, and sexual function.
Due to certain medical reasons, some men may have a reduced production of this testosterone hormone in their bodies. In such cases, one way to provide the body with the required amount of testosterone from outside is through this testosterone patch . This is like a plaster, when it is stuck to the skin, it gradually absorbs the hormone into the body.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using the patch
Before you start this treatment, it is very important to inform your doctor about your complete health condition. Be sure to tell him/her if you have any of the following conditions:
- Cancer conditions: Especially if you have breast cancer or prostate cancer.
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease or liver disease
- Lung-related diseases
- Prostate enlargement
- If you have an allergic reaction to testosterone or the adhesives in the plaster.
- If your female partner is pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If she is breastfeeding a child .
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this treatment is suitable for you or not.
How exactly do you use this patch?
This is very easy, but it's important to do it right.
1. Time: You should apply this patch at the same time every night . The patch should usually stay on for 24 hours, so if you applied it at 9pm tonight, remove the old one and apply a new one at 9pm tomorrow.
2. Location: The patch should be applied to a clean, dry, healthy area of skin . The best places to apply the patch are the stomach, back, upper arms, or thighs. Never apply it over bones (like hips, shoulders), pressure points (like pressure points when sitting or sleeping), the genital area, or the scrotum.
3. How to apply: Take the patch out of the packet, peel off the protective liner, and then apply it to your skin and press firmly.
4. Changing the location: This is very important. Do not apply a new patch to the same spot where you applied the patch today for 7 days after removing it. Apply it to a new spot every day. This can reduce the risk of skin allergies.
Remember, you don't need to take off the patch even if you shower, swim, or exercise. However, if you sweat a lot or do strenuous exercise, the patch may come loose. If that happens, gently press the edges together again and stick it back on.
What if I miss a dose or the patch falls off?
We all forget things. If that happens, here's what to do:
- If the patch falls off before 12 noon or you forget to apply it, apply a new patch immediately . Then take it off at your usual night time and apply a new one.
- If you remember that you forgot to apply the patch in the evening , do not apply a new one. Wait until your usual evening time and apply a new patch at that time.
Most importantly: Do not apply two patches at once (double dose) for any reason. This can cause the body to release too many hormones, which can have dangerous consequences.
Serious side effects and things to watch out for
While using this medication, you should see your doctor regularly to check your testosterone levels in your blood. You should also be aware of some serious conditions.
Heart attacks and strokes have been reported among people using this medication. Therefore, if you experience any of the following symptoms, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Sudden arm pain
- Severe, sudden headache
- Difficulty speaking or understanding
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg
- Loss of body balance while walking
Other things to consider
- MRI Scan: If you are having an MRI scan, you must remove the patch before the scan . The metal parts in the patch can burn the skin. Also inform the MRI technician about this.
- Diabetes: If you are diabetic, this medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. Therefore, talk to your doctor before changing your diabetes medication dosage or diet.
- Athletes: Many sporting organizations have banned the use of testosterone by athletes.
| Side effects and what you should do | |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Blood clot | Leg pain, swelling, warmth, difficulty breathing. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine. |
| Mental changes | Unexplained anger, irritability, depression, suicidal thoughts. |
| Other serious symptoms | Painful erection for a long time, increased blood pressure, swelling of the ankles, hands or feet, snoring and sleep apnea. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Acne | Acne on the face or body. |
| Breast changes | Unexpected growth of breast tissue. |
| Other | Change in sexual desire, itching or redness of the skin where the patch was applied. |
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, some medications can interact with testosterone. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements . Especially if you are taking any of the following medications:
- Medications for diabetes
- Medications to prevent blood clots (e.g. warfarin)
- Propranolol, Oxyphenbutazone
- Types of steroids (e.g. prednisone, cortisone)
If you think you have accidentally overdosed, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
Take-Home Message
- This medicine is for you only. Use only as directed by your doctor. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
- Before applying the patch, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- If you experience emergency symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or difficulty speaking, go to an emergency room (ETU) immediately.
- Change the place where you apply the patch every day. Do not reapply the same patch for 7 days.
- Attend clinics with your doctor on time and get the necessary tests done.
- Store this medicine in a safe place out of the reach of children and pets.
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