Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S

Description

About

Testosterone is one of the major hormones naturally produced in males and to some degree in females. It is associated with fertility, growth, and development of sexual features in males is also attributed to this hormone. Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S belongs to a class of drugs called “Androgens”, specifically used in the treatment of conditions due to deficiency of natural testosterone such as hypogonadism, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, increasing muscle mass, decreased libido, and breast cancer in females. 

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is chemically composed of Testosterone, which acts as a supplement making up for deficient hormones. Testosterone binds to androgenic steroid receptors to bring about its effects, also it converts to estrogen consequently binding to estrogen receptors. This results in DNA and protein synthesis, involved in a variety of functions.

Testosterone-based products are available in form of oral capsules, injections, and transdermal patches. Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is an oral capsule, to be taken orally with or without food. Some of the side effects include nausea, headache, painful urination, behavior changes, etc.

Indications

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is prescribed to adult males above 18 years of age for conditions due to lack of or absence of testosterone (Testosterone level of less than 300 ng/dL), called Testosterone replacement therapy, helpful in cases of:

• Hypogonadism
• Delayed puberty in boys
• Gender Dysphoria
• Breast cancer in women (surgically untreatable)
• Aging
• Loss/decrease in libido 

How does Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S work?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is chemically composed of Testosterone, which acts as a supplement making up for deficient natural hormones. Testosterone binds to androgenic steroid receptors to bring about its effects, also it converts to estrogen consequently binding to estrogen receptors. This results in DNA and protein synthesis, involved in a variety of functions.

How to use Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is to be swallowed orally (by mouth) usually twice a day or as directed by the doctor. It should be preferably consumed with food. If your two doses are uneven, take the bigger dose during morning hours. Before starting the therapy, it is important to check blood testosterone levels and the dosage is set accordingly as per individual needs by the doctor. Hormone levels must be kept in check periodically to assess the further need and dose adjustment.

Available Potencies and Forms

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is available as capsules:

Capsules     – 40 mg

Dosage

Adult Dose 

Your doctor will set the dose to cater to your need individually, make sure not to share Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S with anyone. The starting dose is usually high, 120-160 mg twice a day. After a few weeks of therapy, the dose may be lowered by your doctor to maintain the hormonal levels with 40-120 mg per day. Regular monitoring of testosterone levels is required during the therapy.

Pediatric Dose

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is not prescribed to children younger than 18 years of age due to safety concerns.

Elderly Dose

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S poses a risk of potential side effects, therefore caution is advised while using this medicine in the elderly population. Strictly follow your doctor’s prescription.

Pregnancy Use and Lactation

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is classified as a pregnancy category X drug by the FDA (meaning there is scientific proof of a risk to the human fetus in controlled animal trials). Therefore, it should not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or are planning to have a baby, please consult your doctor before using Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S. Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is also secreted in human milk, if you are breastfeeding, please consult your doctor before taking Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S. 

Contraindications

Please tell your doctor if you have a history of any of the following before using Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S:

• Allergy to Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S
• Pregnancy
• Prostate Cancer
• Breast cancer in men
• Severe kidney disease
• Severe liver disease
• Cardiac problems
• Hypercalcemia/Hypercalciuria

Precautions

Please tell your doctor about any of the following conditions before using Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S:

• Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S must be carefully used if you have a kidney disease
• Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S must be carefully used if you have a liver disease
• Patients with a heart condition must exercise caution, there is an increased risk of blood clot formation and may put at risk of stroke and other heart diseases in such patients 
• If Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is being used for treating breast cancer in women, there is a likelihood of virilization (effects of male hormones), which is irreversible upon discontinuation. Consult your doctor immediately
• Regularly check your blood pressure, Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S may cause an increase in blood pressure
• Patients are warned about aggravating or developing sleep apnea with the use of Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S
• Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S should not be used to improve athletic capabilities, although it may attract many athletes. Its use for such purpose is not advised 
• Long-term use of Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S can produce Hypercalcemia, immediately consult a doctor
• Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) can also pose a serious threat, precautions must be taken accordingly
• long-term use can aggravate the condition if you have prostate enlargement, especially in elderly men
• Regular blood monitoring must be done to assess hormones and blood cells. Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S can cause a rise in RBCs
• Blood cholesterol levels may be altered by Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S, regular monitoring is advised
• Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S must be used strictly as prescribed since it carries a potential for misuse and abuse

Interactions With Other Medications

Please tell your doctor about the use of the following before using Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S:

• Insulin 
• Anticoagulants such as warfarin
• Corticosteroids such as prednisolone 
• Cyclosporine 
• Propranolol 
• Carbamazepine 
• Ritonavir

Adverse effects

Like most medicines, Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S has some side effects which include:

Common Adverse Effects

• Nausea 
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Sweating 
• Fatigue 
• Acne 

Rare Adverse Effects

Immediately consult your doctor if you notice any of the following or worse signs:

• Hypersensitivity/allergic skin reactions
• Breathing difficulties 
• Heart problems 
• Deep venous thrombosis
• Loss of appetite 
• Urination problems
• Painful erection 
• Anxiety 
• Breast tenderness/ enlargement
• Increase/decreased libido
• Polycythemia 
• Edema 
• Abdominal pain 
• Altered lab tests such as thyroid, LDL/HDL, Glucose, etc.
• Withdrawal symptoms 

How To Cope with Some of The Adverse Effects

• Headaches– In which case make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid the use of alcohol. Take a prescribed painkiller. Consult your doctor if the headaches last longer than a week or are severe.
• Fatigue– Patients experiencing this adverse effect are advised to take deep breaths, intake tea or coffee, get a good night’s rest, and not overburden themselves for a few days
• Stomach upset (nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea) -Avoid eating rich or spicy food. It might help to take the medication with food. It is important to have plenty of fluids during this time.
• Loss of appetite– having smaller meals at regular mealtimes or regular intervals is advised. The patient is asked to snack on healthy and nutritious snacks such as dry fruits throughout the day.
• Redness Of the Skin- this can be combated by applying a cold pack to the affected area.

FAQs

#1.What If I Miss a Dose Of Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S?

If you miss a dose of the medication, make sure you take it as soon as possible on that same day. If you don’t remember you missed the dose until the next dosage time or the next day, do not double the dose and take your medication as per schedule.

#2.Ho w to Store Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is to be kept away from the reach of children, in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity as that tends to ruin certain drugs.

#3.How Does Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S Work?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S contains Testosterone, which acts as a supplement making up for deficient natural hormones. Testosterone binds to androgenic steroid receptors.

#4.Will Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S Affect My Sexual Activity?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is used to correct low testosterone levels in the body which usually helps improve one’s sexual activity. As a side effect, few patients have reported an increase or decrease in libido as well. Discuss your concern with your doctor.

#5. Can I Take Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S During My Pregnancy?

No, Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is deemed unsafe to be ingested during pregnancy and must be avoided.

#6. Does Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S Cause Addiction?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S has a track record of misuse and abuse and is known to cause dependence, this drug must be used strictly as prescribed.

#7. Can I Consume Alcohol With Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S?

Alcohol if taken with the medication may lead to extreme dizziness. It is best to avoid the intake of alcohol during your treatment.

#8. Is Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S Safe to Give to Elderly Patients?

For elderly patients the dosage of the drug may be lower than normal due to decreased kidney function and prostate problems,Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S may not be effectively removed from the body and so, in such cases, the doctor may prescribe an altered dose of the Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S.

#9. Can Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S Affect My Fertility?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S can cause a decrease in sperm count, you may discuss the concern with your doctor.

#10. For How Long Will I Have to Take Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S?

Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S usually shows improvement in 3-4 weeks and testosterone levels tend to stabilize in 4-6 months. Follow your doctor’s advice.

#11. Will I Have to Undergo Any Laboratory Tests?

Usually Andrex 40mg Capsule 10 ‘S is prescribed after checking blood testosterone levels. Apart from testosterone, your doctor may ask you to check your blood levels of certain hormones at intervals during your treatment. These may include serum thyroid, FSH, estrogen, LDL/HDL, RBCs, glucose, and some others.