8-8.
PRECAUTIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF PROGESTINS
Progestins should not be taken during the first four months of pregnancy
because of the potential harm they can cause the fetus. Progestins, because of the
effects they produce, may delay the spontaneous abortion of a defective fertilized egg.
8-9.
USES OF ANDROGEN THERAPY
a. Androgen Replacement Therapy. In some instances, there is a lack or
insufficient amount of androgen produced by the testes. For example, the testes may
have been surgically removed or damaged in some way. In these cases, androgens
may be given to the man.
NOTE:
Testicular cancer is most common in the young male from age 18 to 30. This
type of cancer can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early. Therefore, any
lump on the testes should be cause for an immediate medical check. The
loss of the testes will cause sterility. However, loss of the testes will not affect
the ability to have an erection, ejaculation, or orgasm.
b. Treatment of Osteoporosis. Androgens are administered in osteoporosis in
order to cause a rebuilding of bone.
c. Treatment of Endometriosis. Endometriosis is the uncontrolled growth of
uterine endometrium. Androgens are given to treat endometriosis.
d. Reduction of Protein Loss. Androgens can be especially useful in the
debilitated or geriatric patient to reduce the amount of protein lost from muscle tissue.
In the use of androgens for this purpose, additional protein should be added to the diet
in order for the body to synthesize the required proteins.
8-10. SIDE EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH ANDROGEN THERAPY
Because of the actions of androgens, they produce characteristic side effects.
Some of the most widely observed side effects are:
a. Edema. To a slight extent androgens increase sodium and water retention in
the kidney.
b. Masculinizing Effects. The androgens are responsible for producing the
secondary male characteristics. Some of these characteristics include deepening the
voice and increased hair on the body.
MD0807
8-7