Testosterone issues! Androgel?

[preacherswife97]

I am typing this for my husband...His testosterone levels are falling. Currently he is at 208.
He has been prescribed Androgel 5mg. He is concerned of the long term side effects. (does it cause other cancers etc.)
He wants to hear from someone who has been on synthetic testosterone for a long time. What effects have you had (if any).
He's also concerned about contact with is family. (testosterone exposure)
He hasn't decided to take it so any advice/info you can give would be greatly appreciated.

[Fish]

Hi:

I've been using Testim gel, 5mg for 2 1/2 years. Most of the problems with anabolic steroids were associated with oral formulations, which definitely caused liver damage or liver cancer. I'm not sure there are any long term studies on topical testosterone; I'm not even sure how long topical formulations have been on the market. Does anyone out there know??

The only association I recall reading with cancer was that if a man already had prostate cancer, it could accelerate the growth rate. But I have not seen any data that it causes prostate cancer.

I generally put the gel on my right arm and shoulder and I have noticed that there is more hair growing in the area where I apply the gel. As far as my wife, I make sure I wash my hands well with soap after applying the gel and I put a T-shirt on right away, so she won't be exposed to the area where the gel was applied. There have been some studies on transfer of hormone through contact and I think, but I can't remember for certain, that by several hours after the gel dries, there is little or no risk of transfer to another person. I'll see if I can find were I read that and let you know.

Best wishes,

Jim

[MRM]

What I've read says that as long as your testosterone levels are in the normal range, there is little risk of future complications-- certainly far less than chronicly low testosterone levels would cause.

[huckchef]

yeah i think the long term exposures to less test is more critical than normal dosages. i have only been taken injections for about 8 months but i can tell you, i couldnt do without it...thats for sure. i see an endocrinologist on the 20th and i think he will straighten alot of things out for me. if things are still uncertain for you , you may want to do the same. there are more underlying problems other than low testosterone that could create problems. such as weight gain putting more stress on the heart and pituitary problems. since i had both testicals removed my oncologist and I thought we needed to get an endos opinion and test results since this will be a life long adjustment. i'm 33 and hopefully have a long time to go!! hope this helps and keep us posted. my thoughts and prayers always, brian.

[huckchef]

i started the androgel this morning. 7.5 each day. looking forward to good results!!!!