What is Testopel?
Testopel (testosterone) pellets is used to treat low testosterone and delayed puberty in certain males.
How do Testopel pellets work?
The pellets are implanted, or placed under your skin, by your healthcare provider. Testopel acts like the natural sex hormone. Testopel pellets works by adding or replacing testosterone in the body to normal and healthy levels.
Testopel (testosterone) pellets slowly releases testosterone into your body over 3 to 4 months, and sometimes up to 6 months. The pellets slowly absorb and eventually dissolve in your body. This helps raise your testosterone levels. Because Testopel (testosterone) pellets is long-acting, you only need to have the pellets implanted every 3 to 6 months, or 2 to 4 times a year.
What are the risks for Testopel pellets?
While Testopel can effectively treat low testosterone levels, it carries several risks and potential side effects such as:
- Infection at the implantation site and pellets coming out of the skin (pellet extrusion)
- Heart attack or stroke
- Blood clots
- Potential for abuse, dependency, and addiction
- Enlarged prostate and prostate cancer
- Liver problems
- Swelling in the legs or arms (edema)
- High calcium in the blood
- Bone maturation in children
What are side effects of Testopel?
Possible side effects include:
- Enlargement of male breasts
- Pain at the implantation siteMore frequent erections
- Erections that last longer
- Changes in sex drive
- Hair growth in unexpected areas
- Male pattern baldness
- Acne
- Nausea
- Bleeding
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Changes in cholesterol levels
Successful hormone therapy involves getting just the right dose by the right delivery method for patients. Pellets may be a good option for those seeking a consistent, long-term dose. Your doctor can discuss these options to find the right method for you.