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Testosterone Side Effects in Men

Testosterone is a sex hormone that is critical to the normal development of men, and is primarily created in the male testes. Testosterone is responsible for the formation of male sexual organs before birth as well as muscle growth, facial hair and voice changes at puberty. Normal levels of testosterone are beneficial throughout a male's life cycle. Abnormal levels, either too high or too low, can produce side affects that disrupt normal function and development.

  1. Effects of Low Testosterone

    • Testosterone production naturally decreases with age, but levels that are below what is normal for most men can cause a range of side effects. Before birth, low testosterone levels can cause improper or late development of sexual organs. Boys with low testosterone may lack the typical increased bone mass and muscle strength of their peers and often carry greater levels of body fat. Adult males can suffer from a decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction. Depression and infertility are common.

    Effects of High Testosterone

    • Although testosterone that is at a slightly above-average level can have a positive effect, such as reduced threat of heart attack and lower blood pressure, abnormally high levels can produce negative effects. High levels of this hormone are often associated with increased aggressiveness, acts of risky behavior and alcoholism. Reduced testicle size and low sperm count are common. Heart disease risks go up; insomnia and adult acne are often reported.

    Low Testosterone Treatments

    • There are several medical options available to boost low testosterone levels, the most commonly being supplemental hormone therapy. Dosages vary depending on the desired level and can be administered orally via pill or buccal (dissolving tablet placed in the cheek area), as injections, a transdermal patch or in a gel. Each of these methods can have side effects such as unpleasant taste, gum tenderness, pain at the injection site and blisters caused by gel or patch application.

    High Testosterone Treatments

    • Although not as common, testosterone levels that are at abnormally high levels have a medical term: "hypergonadism." One treatment option includes hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with its associated side effects. An endocrinologist should be consulted to find out all available options, as treatment is more difficult since hormone levels will need to be decreased and balanced carefully to avoid unwanted reactions.

    Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy

    • Hormone replacement of testosterone is available in either bioidentical or synthetic form, and each type carries its own variety of possible side effects. Bioidentical, also often referred to as "natural," hormones are produced from products such as soy and other plants. Synthetic testosterone hormones are produced in a laboratory and reproduce the same molecules that are created by the body. The side effects of either type of HRT include breast enlargement, increased risk of prostate enlargement, acne and difficulty sleeping.

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