Rapid Heartbeat & Testosterone Therapy

Used for males who don't produce enough testosterone on their own, testosterone therapy comes in an extended-release patch. This medication does have some potential side effects, though. The Mayo Clinic says that the incidence of a rapid heartbeat is a rare side effect among users; however, if you're struggling with a rapid heartbeat, check with your doctor immediately. In addition to calling your doctor, you can also try some supplements that might help regulate your heartbeat.

Check for Drug Interactions

• Some medications may increase your chances of unwanted side effects, such as a rapid heartbeat. The Mayo Clinic says that the following medications could interact negatively with testosterone therapy and using them together isn't recommended: anisindione, bupropion, dicumarol, paclitaxel, paclitaxel protein-bound, warfarin and phenprocoumon. If you're currently taking one of these medications, speak with your doctor before discontinuing either. It might be necessary to change your dosage. Your doctor might also determine that using both of the drugs outweighs the risk of unwanted side effects.

  To avoid a rapid heartbeat, make sure to tell your doctor if you have heart disease, as heart disease could affect your testosterone therapy. You should also tell him if you have male breast cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, prostate cancer or problems passing urine.

Use the Medication Correctly

• Check your testosterone dose to make sure you're not taking too much. The Mayo Clinic says that you should apply one 5-mg patch or two 2.5-mg patches every night for hormone replacement. If you're taking the patch for other reasons, such as nonvirility, apply one 2.5-mg patch at night. If you miss a dose, put it on as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Don't apply two patches at once to make up for a missed dose. This could cause an overdose, which could exacerbate your rapid heartbeat.

  Generally, dosage for children vary and should be discussed with your doctor.

Try Some Supplements

• If you're taking your medication correctly and your rapid heartbeat isn't from combining another medication with your testosterone therapy, consider trying some supplements to help regulate your heartbeat. According to James F. Balch and Mark Stengler, authors of Prescription for Natural Cures, coenzyme Q10 helps the heart to pump efficiently and with a regular rhythm. They recommend 100 to 300 mg per day.

  In addition, take 500 mg of magnesium per day. The heart uses magnesium to produce energy for contraction and regular rhythm. It also helps improve circulation and blood pressure.