Possible Testosterone side effects

The side effects of increased testosterone are easily managed. The major effect is an increase in red blood cells. This leads to an increased oxygen carrying capacity, although if too high it is not healthy. This is more often seen when T injections are used. The treatment is to donate blood twice a year. There have been no testosterone associated thromboembolic (clotting) events reported to date.

Gynecomastia (swelling of the breast tissue) can be seen if testosterone is converted to Estrogen (female hormone). Estrogen levels are checked while on T and can be controlled by blocking the enzyme (aromatase) that converts T to Estrogen. This decreases the swelling. As your body fat decreases while on T, and aromatase is made in fat, estrogen will naturally decrease. Interestingly men need some estrogen to maintain libido and a sense of well being.

Fluid retention is rare and self limiting.

Decrease in testicular size and sperm count. Other drugs must be taken with T if you and your partner are trying to become pregnant.

Does T increase male pattern baldness? It is unknown at this time. Men that are susceptible to hair loss from Testosterone typically have exhibited this trait earlier in their lives. The culprit is DHT (dihydro T) that is made from T. This can be blocked using Avodart.