Side Effects of Testosterone Treatment

Testosterone is a hormone responsible for sex characteristics in men as well as behavioral traits, such as aggression and sex drive. As men age, the levels of testosterone decrease and problems, such as sexual dysfunction and loss of muscle, may occur. Testosterone creams or supplements can be taken to increase testosterone levels, but the side effects of testosterone may have a negative impact on health.

Acne

• Testosterone can stimulate the sebaceous glands in the face and chest that produce oil, which can result in breakouts of acne.

Hair Loss

• Taking supplements of testosterone may hasten the development of male pattern baldness or cause hair loss on the face, chest, underarms and other parts of the body.

Sleep Apnea

• According to the Mayo Clinic, testosterone may worsen existing cases of sleep apena or cause sleep apnea in men who previously did not have it.

Enlarged Prostate

• Side effects of testosterone on the prostate include swelling and enlargement. This may cause painful urination.

Prostate Cancer

• Faster growth of existing prostate cancer is a side effect of testosterone, which is more likely to occur in elderly men.

Breast Disease

• Testosterone can cause side effects, such as gynecomastia, which is the abnormal growth or development of breasts in men and can cause men to develop breast cancer.

Fertility Problems

• Testosterone may have negative side effects on fertility, including reductions the quantity of sperm and shrinkage of the testicles.