Testosterone is a male hormone. If it is not enough, it must be replenished. For example, you can use testosterone in tablets. If there is not enough testosterone in the body, then many male functions will be weakened or suspended. There are alternative ways to replenish testosterone (injections, for example). But before you take these pills or give injections, you should understand what testosterone is and how it affects the body.

Male sex hormone

As already mentioned, testosterone is a male sex hormone. But one should not think that women do not have such a hormone. It’s just that its amount in a woman’s body is much less. Testosterone is involved in the formation and strengthening of bone tissue, protein synthesis and has an anabolic effect. That is why a man’s body, as a rule, is characterized by a more powerful skeleton, developed muscles and muscle mass, and a lower perception of pain. These properties of testosterone form the basis of many hormonal medications that are prescribed to women in case of corresponding diseases.

For some diseases, testosterone tablets or hormonal preparations based on testosterone can be prescribed not only to men, but also to women. This is due to the fact that some diseases arise precisely because of skeletal weakness or disruption of the process of protein synthesis, where testosterone cannot be avoided.

Testosterone is produced from cholesterol by cells of the adrenal cortex, in small quantities by the ovaries in women and by cells of the testes in men. And if women need this hormone in minimal quantities (in the absence of relevant diseases), then for men it is a vital hormone. In addition to protein synthesis and bone tissue formation, it stimulates the functioning of the reproductive system.

Natural and synthetic

Testosterone in tablets can be divided into two large types: natural and synthetic. Natural testosterone is produced from leguminous plants. It differs from synthetic in that it is not very well absorbed by the body in tablet form. The fact is that testosterone is a hormone that partially disintegrates when it enters the acidic environment of the stomach. To prevent this from happening, special protective additives are required. When injected, the degree of absorption is much higher. But here it should be noted that testosterone, which is produced by the body of each person, has individual characteristics. Therefore, even the injection method of administration does not guarantee complete absorption in the body. Synthetic testosterone tablets are more effective in this regard than natural ones. It contains special substances that protect it in the acidic environment of the stomach before being absorbed into the blood.

When comparing the effects of synthetic and natural testosterone, you should know that natural, due to its low digestibility, does not create a stressful state for the body. It is absorbed scantily, and therefore gradually accustoms the body to increasing its dose in the blood. Synthetic can create a hormonal shock if used carelessly. Its dosage should be significantly less with a gradual increase to normal. Therefore, from the financial side, it may be more effective to take synthetic, but in this case you need to be more careful with dosages.

Dosage

Tablets containing testosterone should be taken strictly as prescribed by the doctor and in the dosages specified by him. If you replace one pill with another, it is not enough to recalculate the content of the hormone in proportion; it is important to know what kind of testosterone it is - synthetic or natural. If you replace synthetic tablets with tablets with the same natural content and take them in the same regimen, it is likely that the course of treatment will be prolonged by an insufficient amount of absorbed hormone. There is a chance to delay the treatment of the disease and “heal” the body (to create a period of adaptation to the medicine for the disease, then at these doses the treatment will no longer be effective). But if, on the contrary, you replace natural testosterone with tablets with the same concentration of synthetic, then it may well be that the body will malfunction as a result of excess testosterone.

Excess testosterone leads to excessive irritability, mental excitability, and even aggressiveness. At the chemical and biological level, this will result in the release of additional “calming” hormones into the blood, which can interfere with effective treatment, one of the elements of which was the introduction of testosterone.

Injections are much cheaper than the tablet form, since in this case testosterone requires a smaller dosage due to better absorption. But the method of administering testosterone through injection requires a qualified nurse who knows how to do this kind of injection, sterile syringes and sufficient control of the situation by doctors (the absorption of the drug is high, and there may be unforeseen situations related to the individual condition at the time of injection). If a person is located at a distance from the doctor (for example, at the dacha), then the tablet form looks much more preferable and safer.

Characteristic

You should not think that introducing testosterone into the body will make a person more courageous. Hormones should not be overestimated. If a man thinks he doesn't look or act masculine enough, it's not a testosterone problem. This is a psychological moment that needs to be addressed through psychological measures (playing sports, developing a life line of behavior, etc.). Solving psychological problems using chemical methods is the last thing. It should be understood that the concept of “male hormones” is conditional; it does not characterize a psychotype, but only a physiological affiliation. And not absolutely, but only to a greater extent. Women also produce this hormone. But the main thing is that this hormone is not the only thing that distinguishes a man from a woman. There are many differences, not only physiologically, but also in the chemical composition of the blood, for example.

Purpose

Unreasonable self-administration of testosterone can lead to very bad consequences, for example, with the liver. When prescribing hormonal medications, a doctor is guided not only by the goal of defeating the disease, but also by the principle of “do no harm.” There is no need to play with hormones. Everything in our body is very precisely calibrated, folded and adjusted. Each change entails a chain of changes throughout the entire body. Everything is interconnected. If you want to be more courageous, work on it. Something needs to be changed in the lifestyle, not in the chemical composition of the blood.

The introduction of any drug leads to changes in the functioning of all (or many) organs. Qualitative changes occur slowly. Setting up work and treatment takes time and a competent approach.

When it comes to bodybuilding, testosterone is one of the most important elements that helps build the body. It is often used, but only in injection form. The low digestibility of tablet forms does not make it possible to use them specifically for this sport. You can, of course, take pills by the handful, but in this case there is a chance of worsening liver function. It should be understood that what does not enter the bloodstream in the form of testosterone will enter the body in another form. But first it will be filtered by the liver. At the moment, hormonal drugs have been developed that are absorbed into the blood before entering the liver. They are called prohormones. These drugs are good because they do not create swelling of the liver, are well absorbed and do not suppress the natural production of testosterone in the body.

The problem of male impotence has many causes, among which it is worth highlighting the decrease in the volume of the main sex hormone. Find out how to increase testosterone in men with medication to completely improve the quality of your sex life.

The fact is that if the levels of the corresponding androgen in the blood are low, it is important to take measures to correct the current situation. At the moment, medicine offers a large list of medicinal developments to increase male androgen in the blood.

What is dangerous about a decrease in male hormone levels?

Before you start studying medications that can increase testosterone medically, it is important to familiarize yourself with why you are doing this in the first place.

Under no circumstances should the properties of the relevant substance be underestimated. It plays a vital role in maintaining the general and reproductive health of every man.

If there is a lack of testosterone in the body, the following symptoms of deficiency are noted:

• Weakening libido. Men's interest in women is lost.
• . The extent of manifestation will depend on the level of deficiency.
• Increasing the percentage of adipose tissue in a man's body.
• Decreased muscle strength. The muscles become flabby and saggy.
• Fatigue, apathy and sleep disturbance.
• Decreased immunity and general deterioration of well-being.
• Depression.

Accordingly, a lack of testosterone is fraught with many negative consequences for a person. The drug method of correcting the problem is the simplest. You can increase the male hormone only after consultation with a specialist. Otherwise, you may not calculate the dose and either worsen the condition or not achieve the desired final effect.

Medicines to increase testosterone in men

Medicines intended to increase testosterone have a significant number of trade names that an ordinary person without a medical education may not understand on their own.

All medications for increasing testosterone in men can be divided into two types, differing in their mechanism of action on the body:

• For hormone replacement therapy. The drug approach in this option is aimed at replenishing the lack of testosterone through its exogenous synthetic or natural analogues. Thus, it is possible to solve the problem relatively quickly and efficiently, however, in most situations, a man will have to continue to use artificial testosterone analogues to maintain the results obtained.
• To stimulate endogenous testosterone secretion. We are talking about medications that activate the work of your own endocrine glands, ensuring the flow of testosterone into the blood. Such treatment often takes longer, but allows you to independently produce the required amount of such an important substance for men. Such medications are especially relevant for restoring the necessary hormone at a young age.

Depending on the type of dosage form, they are divided into:

1. Injection medicinal media (solutions for intramuscular and intravenous administration).
2. Oral medications (, capsules).
3. Transdermal medications (various gels, ointments, etc.).

Depending on the circumstances, the doctor selects the optimal remedy to increase the concentration of the hormone in the body. The dose and route of administration may vary in each individual episode.

All people are individual and what is good for some is unacceptable for others. For this reason, self-medication is prohibited (due to the high chance of aggravating the situation).

Injections

A medicinal method of increasing the described substance involves the use of different solutions to replenish the deficiency.

Today there are many different drugs that deserve the attention of doctors and their patients.

Injectable hormonal medications used:

• Testosterone Cypionate or Enanthate. They have an almost identical effect on humans, promoting an increase in androgen levels. They are administered at 200-400 mg once a month. In this case, a kind of depot of active testosterone is created in the injection area, from where the hormone gradually spreads through the bloodstream.
• Testosterone in the form of a mixture of its own esters (Sustanon or Omnadren). Used at a dose of 250 mg once every two to three weeks, depending on the doctor’s recommendations. Such medications work on the principle of the medications mentioned above.
• Testosterone Undecanoate (Nebido). Long-acting agent. One injection allows you to not worry about the level of testosterone in the body for 3 months. It is produced in the form of an oil solution for intramuscular injections. The dosage is 1000 mg.

There is a relatively wide choice of how to carry out drug-based testosterone increases. The main thing in this matter is to choose exactly what will be the most effective and affordable. There are episodes when the same medical product affects men differently.

Testosterone boosting pills

Injections can often be an inconvenient type of drug therapy. Not all men are eager to be regularly exposed. In this case, testosterone-boosting pills will come in handy.

They have a number of features that are worth remembering:

• More convenient way to use.
• Needs to be used every day.
• Effectiveness is maintained only with regular use and compliance with doctor's recommendations.
• Large list.

Despite the above nuances, most men prefer this type of medicine. The drug effect develops quickly, which contributes to a noticeable improvement in potency in particular and sexual function in general.

The most popular and in demand among this group of therapeutic agents remain:

• Halotestin. Take from 5 to 20 mg every day, depending on the severity of the corresponding pathology.
• Metadren. Dose: 10-30 mg per day.
• Andriol. One of the most used drugs to increase testosterone. Used in a daily dose of 120-200 mg.
• Proviron, Vistinon, Vistimon. Three similar products with different names. They work on the same principle. The average dosage ranges from 25-75 mg per day.

The selection of a specific type of medication is carried out by a doctor based on the collected medical history, and most importantly, laboratory test data. The lower the concentration of free androgen in the blood, the higher the dose of drugs.

Transdermal medicines

A very common method of increasing testosterone in men recently is the use of a variety of means that are used externally.

Most Popular:

• Androgel.
• Andromen.
• Andractim.
• Special patches with a hormone in their composition - Androderm and Testoderm.

To achieve the desired end result, you simply need to apply the medication to the skin and leave to dry. The patches have the property of creating a small “channel” of biologically active substances, which smoothly and regularly enters the bloodstream, causing a general improvement in a person’s condition.

Separately, it is necessary to say about this type of drug-induced increase in testosterone concentration, such as implants with the hormone inside. They are injected under the skin, where the active molecules are gradually released. Despite the large number of positive aspects of such therapy, not many men agree to such manipulations.

Testosterone stimulants

Replacement therapy is used to treat various forms of erectile dysfunction, which are characterized by testosterone deficiency.

Indications for such an intervention:

• Eunuchoidism.
• Infertility.
• Endocrine impotence.
• Menopausal changes.

However, there are situations when the body of a male representative can independently produce a specific substance, but he does not have enough internal reserves to start the process.

In this case, it would be justified to use testosterone stimulants, which activate the corresponding processes and allow the body to independently begin to produce the necessary hormone. It must be said right away that such an approach is not always effective. Much depends on the characteristics of each individual man and the reserves of his body.

Types of funds:

• Injections of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The hormone has an activating effect on the male gonads, increasing the synthesis of testosterone. The dosage is up to 3000 units two to three times a week for a month. After such a course of treatment, you must take a break.
• ZMA and other similar nutritional supplements that contain vitamin B6, magnesium and zinc. These components help improve the functioning of the male genital organs with the stabilization of spermatogenesis and the general normalization of well-being.
• or other analogues containing polyunsaturated fatty acids. They should be consumed in the form of nutritional supplements. Thus, it will be possible to carry out high-quality prevention of a number of diseases and to some extent normalize.
• Tinctures of natural stimulants. Here it is necessary to remember about eleutherococcus and other similar plants, which naturally help normalize the sexual function of almost any man.

All of the above remedies are purely auxiliary in the treatment of a problem that is accompanied by testosterone deficiency. Most often they are combined with other drugs, but only after appropriate consultation with a doctor.

Additional Methods

Despite the abundance of various medicinal tablets, ointments, tinctures and other medicinal “lotions”, it is possible to increase a man’s testosterone level in a more natural way.

Of course, you shouldn’t completely give up medications, but you can improve their effectiveness using the following simple methods:

• Proper nutrition. There should be enough proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Be sure to eat vegetables and fruits. It is important to drink at least 2 liters of water per day.
• Physical activity. Keeping the body toned also helps normalize androgens. It has long been known that strength training gradually increases testosterone.
• Regular sex. Frequent sexual intercourse contributes to the activation of the testicles with an increase in testosterone in the blood.

It is difficult to assess the effect of testosterone on the male body. This hormone is actively involved in the development of bone tissue and protein metabolism, and is also responsible for sexual arousal and secondary sexual characteristics. In addition, the amount of testosterone hormone affects a man’s sexual behavior and erectile abilities. Therefore, it is very important to maintain its content at normal levels, which testosterone in tablets helps to cope with.

Types of testosterone drugs

In general, testosterone pills are divided into synthetic and natural varieties. Natural testosterone is made from plant-based raw materials such as legumes or soybeans. Testosterone hormone is synthesized in the laboratory, resulting in testosterone that is almost identical to human testosterone. This type of testosterone is not well absorbed by the body. It is able to maintain testosterone levels at a high level for about a day. The result is increased energy and sexual arousal, increased bone density and improved overall health. But side reactions are possible, such as excessive accumulation of cholesterol in the body, severe swelling and high blood pressure.

Important! As practice shows, these hormonal drugs do not have a pronounced anabolic effect, therefore tablets of testosterone are not used in bodybuilding.

The tableted hormone is used in the complex treatment of osteoporosis caused by androgen deficiency, post-castration syndrome or hypopituitarism. Also, these drugs are used in hormone replacement therapy for male menopause and infertility against the background of spermatogenesis. As for doses, they are determined by the andrologist personally for each patient, depending on age characteristics and general health.

If you take testosterone capsules on an empty stomach, absorption will occur at a very low level.

It is necessary to take tableted testosterone after or during meals orally. It is necessary to take into account the fact that the food taken should not be too enriched with fats in order for lymphogenous absorption to be as effective as possible. The capsules are washed down with water, swallowed without biting. Treatment usually lasts for half a month or a month. When treating impotence or male menopause, the hormone is prescribed 10 mg daily for a month or two.

Contraindications and adverse reactions

The tableted hormone is strictly contraindicated for male prostate or breast carcinoma, even if such a diagnosis is suspected. In addition, caution should be exercised when prescribing such drugs to adolescent patients. It is not recommended to take the drug for persons who have special hypersensitivity to its components. You should not take tableted male hormone if you have coronary or heart failure, hypercalcemia or nephrosis, diabetes or impaired liver function. If the patient has epilepsy, migraine or arterial hypertension, regular monitoring by a specialist is required throughout the entire therapeutic period.

Attention! Long-term uncontrolled use of tableted testosterone can provoke the appearance of tumor-like formations in the prostate, as well as cause a decrease in seminal fluid production.

It is necessary to take into account the ability of tableted testosterone to interact with other drugs. Thus, the hormone enhances the effect of hypoglycemic agents and anticoagulants. In addition, during the treatment period it is prohibited to drink alcohol, since alcohol significantly reduces the therapeutic effect of the hormone.

Taking tableted testosterone can provoke a number of very unpleasant side reactions. Among them, the following stand out: seborrhea, frequent erections, acne, swelling, increased libido, and various allergic manifestations. In addition, patients who take the hormone may experience reactions such as impaired spermatogenesis, erythrocytosis, hypercalcemia, pathological enlargement of the penis, priapism, or too early adolescent puberty. Some patients noted nausea, dizziness, gastrointestinal bleeding, metrorrhagia, gynecomastia, sleep apnea, baldness, etc.

Lack of testosterone negatively affects the functioning of all organs and systems of a man, his well-being, performance, and mood. To treat disorders and compensate for the deficiency of this hormone, various drugs are used that can be purchased at the pharmacy.

After restoring hormonal balance, all symptoms of testosterone deficiency go away. Since a deficiency of this substance is almost as harmful as its excess in the body, and incorrectly selected therapy can lead to negative consequences, any drugs to increase testosterone can be used only after consultation with your doctor.

Why does a man need testosterone?

Testosterone is one of the main male hormones that is involved in many metabolic processes. Each age has its own optimal level of this hormone. Among the main functions of testosterone in the male body, it is worth noting the following:

• growth of the genitals in boys, as well as growth of the larynx and changes in the voice during adolescence;
• hair growth control;
• assistance in spermatogenesis;
• normalization of the entire male genitourinary system;
• ensuring bone density and strength, overall endurance and strength;
• ensuring sexual desire;
• Help in maintaining a good mood and stress resistance;
• ensuring a stable and full erection;

In addition to all these functions, testosterone plays a lot of other equally important roles in the functioning of our body. First of all, it helps to stop age-related changes in a man’s body, triggers tissue regeneration processes, and accelerates metabolism. This hormone affects almost all areas of a man’s life. And even a slight deficiency or excess of it in the body can immediately affect overall well-being and health.

Most often, a decrease in testosterone levels occurs due to an incorrect lifestyle: bad habits, low physical activity, unbalanced diet. This phenomenon is also observed in the presence of excess weight, frequent stress, lack of sleep, and overwork. Important reasons for the decrease in testosterone in the body are various chronic diseases and age-related changes in tissues.

Too high a testosterone content in a man’s body is also dangerous for potency and general health. Basically, an overabundance of this hormone is observed when there are hormonal imbalances or when a man is addicted to steroid supplements, which are very popular among athletes and bodybuilders, as they help increase endurance and accelerate the growth of muscle mass.

What drugs will help increase testosterone levels?

All pharmaceutical preparations for increasing testosterone levels can be divided into two large groups according to their composition:

• natural remedies – homeopathy and dietary supplements;
• synthetic versions of testosterone.

Also, all drugs for increasing testosterone sold in pharmacies can be divided into several groups according to the form of release:

1. Means for oral administration. These are capsules and tablets.
2. Solutions for the preparation of injections that are administered intramuscularly.
3. External means. These are gels, ointments, transdermal patches.

In addition, all pharmaceutical drugs for increasing testosterone have different purposes. This is the replacement of a natural hormone with a synthetic analogue or stimulation of the body’s own production of the desired substance. Most often, the second group of drugs includes natural drugs, and the first group includes synthetic ones.

Nebido

This is a German drug to increase testosterone. It is available in the form of an oil solution for injection. The main active ingredient is testosterone in the form of undecanoate.

Typically, 1 ampoule of the drug is administered once every 10-14 weeks. This dosage allows you to reduce the risk of side effects while still achieving the desired therapeutic effect.

Androgel

This is a Belgian drug to increase testosterone levels. The product is available only in the form of a gel intended for external use. The main active component of the product is testosterone.

The drug is applied daily, preferably in the morning, to the skin of the shoulders, forearms or abdomen. The dosage and duration of the course of use are selected individually. After applying the product, wash your hands thoroughly and allow the product to absorb for 3-5 minutes.

Testosterone propionate

This is a Russian drug for increasing testosterone, which can be bought at any pharmacy. The product is available in the form of a solution for injection. The main active component is testosterone in the form of propionate.

The dosage regimen and application regimen are selected by a specialist individually, taking into account the man’s health status, the degree of complexity of his disease, indications, age and many other factors. The product is dispensed only with a doctor's prescription.

Andriol

This is a French drug for increasing testosterone levels, available in capsule form. The main active component of the product is testosterone in the form of undecanoate, dissolved in oleic acid. The dosage and regimen of use is selected by the doctor individually in each specific case.

Usually it is 120-160 mg of the drug per day for 2-3 weeks. Then a reduced daily dosage is maintained for some time - 40-120 mg. Capsules are taken simultaneously with meals in the morning.

Parity

This is a natural drug that stimulates testosterone production. It, like other dietary supplements, has significantly fewer contraindications and possible side effects than synthetic products. But taking it will not bring immediate results.

The main active ingredients are Eurycoma longifolia, deer antlers extract, Yohimbe bark, ginger root. The natural substances included in the composition improve the overall well-being and health of men, increase testosterone synthesis, restore potency and libido. The course of application is 15 days. It is necessary to take 1 capsule of the drug per day in the morning along with the main meal.

Tribulus

This is a natural drug to increase testosterone levels. You can buy it without a doctor's prescription at any pharmacy or order it online. The product has a complex effect on a man: it not only improves the well-being and condition of the genitourinary system, but also stimulates the body itself to independently produce the necessary hormones.

You need to take the drug 1-3 times a day, 1 capsule after the main meal. The course of application is selected individually. The main active component of the drug is tribulus plant extract.

Why is the drug method of increasing testosterone dangerous?

Unfortunately, the use of testosterone in the form of injections, capsules, tablets and, less commonly, ointments and gels can lead to various negative consequences:

• infertility and impotence;
• various allergic reactions;
• increased anxiety and sleep problems;
• swelling and skin problems, such as acne and rashes;
• deterioration of the nervous and cardiovascular systems;
• decreased immunity;
• the occurrence of osteoporosis and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
• baldness or excessive hair growth throughout the body;
• aggressiveness and increased fatigue;
• frequent headaches.

In addition, drugs that increase testosterone levels can cause disruption to the hormonal system. And this can cause various mental disorders, exacerbation of chronic diseases, the development of diseases of internal organs and even cancer.

How to increase testosterone in other safe ways

There is not always a need to take drugs that increase testosterone in men. In some cases, the problem can be solved using natural methods. Among them, experts especially highlight the following:

1. Sports activities. Strength training, running, pull-ups, push-ups and some other types of exercise are especially useful. The main thing here is not to overdo it. You should start playing sports at any age only under the supervision of an experienced instructor or coach. It is also advisable to consult a doctor before your first workouts, and you can only increase the complexity of the exercises gradually.
2. Balanced diet. It is necessary to completely abandon harmful foods: sausages and flour products, fast food, sweets, and reduce caffeine consumption. You need to eat more lean meat, vegetables, greens, fruits and berries, oysters, shrimp, mussels, eggs, some cereals, and dairy products. This will nourish the body with useful substances and will stimulate an increase in testosterone synthesis.
3. Sufficient rest for the body. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day. It is also necessary, if possible, to avoid stress, mental and physical fatigue.
4. Rejection of bad habits. Alcohol and cigarettes negatively affect the condition of a man’s entire body. They greatly reduce the production of male hormones. Beer is especially dangerous in this regard. This foamy drink contains a plant analogue of the female hormone - phytoestrogen, which reduces testosterone synthesis and leads to other negative consequences.
5. Regular sex. Intimacy with one partner helps increase testosterone synthesis, normalize prostate function, eliminate congestion in the pelvic organs, increase immunity, and improve a man’s psycho-emotional state.

It is also important to monitor your health and weight. Extra pounds and untreated diseases are serious enemies of balance in the hormonal system.

Conclusion

If the need arises, you need to take a comprehensive approach to increasing testosterone levels. If you notice any symptoms of testosterone deficiency, then do not rush to go to the pharmacy for any medications. Start with changes in diet and lifestyle habits.

Sometimes healthy sleep and proper rest will return you to good health in a few days. If within 1-2 weeks there are no improvements or deterioration in your health, be sure to consult a doctor, undergo an examination and follow all the recommendations he gives.

Testosterone preparations are used to correct hormonal imbalances in women and men. Such medicines are presented on the pharmacological market in tablets and capsules. The hormone regulates many body functions, and its deficiency negatively affects the quality of life.

What is testosterone

The hormone testosterone is one of the most important elements of regulation of the human body. The primary form of this substance is inactive, because associated with transport protein and androgen receptors. It is converted into its active form (dihydrotestosterone) under the influence of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is synthesized by the adrenal cortex and testicles. The production of the hormone is influenced by the pituitary hormones: follicle-stimulating and luteinizing.

This hormone primarily controls the development and functioning of the reproductive system. It promotes the formation of secondary sexual characteristics, maintains libido, normalizes spermatogenesis, and egg maturation. In addition, testosterone regulates:

• mood;
• development of muscle mass and skeletal system;
• anabolic processes;
• formation of long-term memory and learning ability.

Classification of drugs in tablets

The male hormone testosterone in tablets is divided into two groups: natural and synthetic. In the first case, the substance is made from plant materials, in the second, it is synthesized in the laboratory. Preparations containing natural hormones are much better absorbed by the body and cause fewer side effects. In addition, all medications for increasing testosterone levels are divided into products that directly contain it and additives that stimulate its production.

Natural

Preparations with natural male hormones are made from beans, soybeans, and yams. Such drugs are close in their chemical composition to the natural hormone that is synthesized by the male reproductive system. Medicines are produced in microdoses, due to which it is fully absorbed by the body. Micronized drugs act for a long time, stabilizing the amount of the hormone at the proper level throughout the day.

Thanks to the action of natural testosterone, sexual desire (libido) is normalized or increased, overall well-being is significantly improved, a surge of energy is felt, bone density and muscle tone increase. Remember that uncontrolled use of micronized testosterone can cause side effects (high blood pressure, increased blood cholesterol).

Synthetic

The artificially synthesized male sex hormone differs from the natural one in chemical composition. The active ingredient of the drug is quickly absorbed and has a pronounced effect. The synthetic hormone can cause side effects: anxiety, aggression, irritability, headaches and muscle spasms. Women often experience symptoms of masculinization. Synthetic testosterone preparations include:

• Methyltestosterone;
• Methandren;
• Testoral;
• Andriol;
• Androxon.

Properties of the drug

After oral administration, the active component of the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. The bioavailability of the drug is about 7%. Compared to injection solutions, the medicine in tablets is more convenient for use and does not have a toxic effect on the liver. The therapeutic effect occurs faster. The peculiarity of using the hormone in tablets is the need for daily use. Disadvantages include rapid metabolism of the drug components.

Indications for use

According to the instructions for the drug, the use of testosterone is indicated for hormone replacement therapy against the background of primary or secondary deficiency of this substance. The main indications for the use of drugs are:

• hypopituitarism (pituitary insufficiency);
• eunuchoidism (insufficient function of the gonads);
• osteoporosis caused by androgen deficiency.

Testosterone supplements for men

The sex hormone testosterone in men regulates the processes of spermatogenesis and sexual behavior. In addition, the substance stimulates the growth of muscle mass and ensures the deposition of calcium in the bones. Testosterone drugs are prescribed to men in the following cases:

• post-castration state;
• endocrine impotence;
• male menopause;
• infertility caused by impaired spermatogenesis.

Application for women

In a woman's body, the male sex hormone is responsible for the maturation of the follicle in the ovary. When its content is reduced, follicle maturation and the ovulatory cycle are disrupted. In addition, women are prescribed male sex hormone in the following cases:

• for osteoporosis;
• with uterine fibroids;
• during menopause.

Directions for use and dosage

Testosterone Undecanoate can only be prescribed by a doctor after receiving test results, an initial examination and anamnesis. The dosage of the medication depends on the gender and age of the patient. Taking testosterone in capsules or tablets should start with an amount of 120–160 mg per day for 2-3 weeks. Afterwards, therapy is continued at a maintenance dose of up to 120 mg/day.

special instructions

Testosterone tablets for men should be used with caution in patients aged 12–18 years, because there is a high risk of side effects. Prescribing the drug for patients suffering from chronic pathologies (epilepsy, migraine, cardiovascular pathologies) should be carried out after assessing their health status.

Drug interactions

Testosterone may increase and decrease glucose sensitivity and reduce the need for hypoglycemic agents and insulin in people with diabetes. In addition, a synthetic analogue can enhance the effects of anticoagulants. Sometimes the drug increases the binding of drugs containing thyroid hormones and reduces their content in the blood.

Side effects and contraindications

Side effects include sodium and water retention in the body, increased libido, oligospermia (decreased sperm count during ejaculation) and priapism (prolonged painful erection). It is not recommended to take pharmaceutical testosterone in the following cases:

• in the presence of androgen-dependent prostate or breast carcinoma;
• with hypercalcemia;
• with prostatic hyperplasia;
• during pregnancy and lactation;
• in case of individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Terms of sale and storage

Testosterone tablets for men are available from pharmacies only with a doctor's prescription. The medicine should be protected from exposure to direct sunlight. It is recommended to store the drug at a temperature of 8–25 °C. The shelf life is 3 years.

Testosterone analogues

If the patient has absolute or even relative contraindications for the use of the drug, as well as severe side effects after taking the tablets, analogues of this drug are prescribed. These include:

1. Virigen. The drug is prescribed for pathologies caused by hormone deficiency: infertility, hypopituitarism and eunuchoidism. The drug is used for male menopause or impotence.
2. Andriol. Synthetic male sex hormone with androgenic activity. Ensures the formation of secondary sexual characteristics and spermatogenesis processes. Prescribed, as a rule, for hypogonadism, osteoporosis, dysfunctional uterine bleeding. The average cost of a medicine is 760 rubles.
3. Androxon. Synthetic analogue of testosterone. The active ingredient of the drug is testosterone undecanoate. Used when there is insufficient synthesis of one’s own hormone. The approximate price of the medicine is 820 rubles.