Testosterone (medication)

Testosterone is a medication and naturally occurring steroid hormone. It is used to treat male hypogonadism, gender dysphoria, and certain types of breast cancer. It may also be used with the intent to increase athletic ability in the form of doping. It is unclear if the use of testosterone for low levels due to aging is beneficial or harmful. Testosterone can be administered through several different routes, including topical gels or patches, nasal sprays, subdermal implants, or tablets dissolved inside the mouth. Testosterone therapy has been associated with improvements in depressive symptoms (especially in hypogonadal men), increased exercise capacity and muscle strength in men with chronic heart failure, and male contraception effectiveness. Common side effects of testosterone include acne, swelling, and breast enlargement in men. Serious side effects may include liver toxicity, heart disease, and behavioral changes. Women and children who are exposed may develop masculinization. It is recommended that individuals with prostate cancer should not use the medication. It can cause harm to the baby if used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Testosterone is in the androgen family of medications. Testosterone was first isolated in 1935, and approved for medical use in 1939. Rates of use have increased three times in the United States between 2001 and 2011. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. It is available as a generic medication. In 2023, it was the 119th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 5 million prescriptions.