Generic
Testosterone Undecanoate
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Testosterone Undecanoate is an oral androgen used for the treatment of male hypogonadism. It replenishes the deficiency of the natural male hormone testosterone.
Description
Testosterone Undecanoate is an oral testosterone ester absorbed through the intestinal lymphatic system, bypassing the portal system and avoiding first-pass liver metabolism. It binds to androgen receptors, playing a role in male genital development, muscle mass, bone density, libido, and mood.
Indications
- Male hypogonadism
Therapeutic class
Male Sex Hormones (Androgens)
Pharmacological class
Oral Androgen
Pharmacology
Testosterone Undecanoate is absorbed via the lymphatic system, avoiding first-pass liver metabolism. It activates androgen receptors to regulate male sexual characteristics, muscle mass, bone density, and libido.
Mechanism of action
Replenishes testosterone deficiency to maintain male sexual and physical characteristics.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Start: 120-160 mg/day (undecylate ester)
- Maintenance: 40-120 mg/day
Administration
- Take with food (enhances absorption)
- Swallow capsules whole; do not chew
- Divide dose between morning and evening (if odd number, take more in the morning)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Leg pain, dizziness
- Increased prolactin in blood
- Weight gain, hypertension
- Headache, increased red blood cell count
Serious:
- Polycythemia, venous thromboembolism
- Prostate cancer risk
- Shortness of breath, frequent erections
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use in men with breast or prostate cancer
- Do not use in hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria
- Do not use in pregnancy and lactation
- Monitor hematocrit, PSA, lipids regularly
- Caution in sleep apnea, heart disease, renal/hepatic disease
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria
- Men with breast or prostate carcinoma
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug interactions
- Cyclosporine, antidiabetics, thyroxine, anticoagulants: Enhanced activity
- Neuromuscular blockers: Long-term use may cause resistance
- Corticosteroids: Enhanced fluid retention
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Testosterone Undecanoate; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Highly unsafe; may cause virilization of the female fetus; do not use; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Unsafe; drug may cause toxicity to the baby; do not use; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in severe kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in severe liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Taking several capsules at once may cause diarrhea; provide symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store at 8-30°C in the original package, protected from light; keep out of reach and sight of children.
Chemical structure
Testosterone Undecanoate