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Methyltestosterone vs Androgel
Introduction
For patients with low testosterone levels or hypogonadism, certain drugs that can increase the amount of testosterone in the body are prescribed to restore hormonal balance and manage symptoms such as fatigue, depressed mood, erectile dysfunction and loss of muscle mass. Methyltestosterone and Androgel are two such medications used for this purpose. Methyltestosterone is an oral synthetic form of testosterone which works by affecting many bodily systems so that the body can develop and function normally. On the other hand, Androgel is a topical gel containing testosterone that gets absorbed through your skin directly into your bloodstream to help maintain normal testosterone levels throughout the day. Both these medications have their unique pros and cons regarding convenience of use, potential side effects, cost considerations etc., hence it's crucial for patients to discuss these factors thoroughly with their healthcare provider before deciding on one treatment option over another.
Methyltestosterone vs Androgel Side By Side
| Attribute | Methyltestosterone | Andro gel |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Methyltestosterone | AndroGel |
| Contraindications | Should not be used if you have or are suspected to have prostate cancer or breast cancer. Can interact with drugs like warfarin leading to serious complications. May affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of water retention related complications in individuals with heart, liver, or kidney disease. | Should not be used if you have or are suspected to have prostate cancer or breast cancer. Must be cautious if there is a history of heart, liver, or kidney disease due to potential for fluid retention. |
| Cost | Brand name: around $150 for 30 tablets (10 mg). Generic: between $0.75 and $2.25 per day depending on dosage. | Brand name: about $650 for a one-month supply (50mg/5g per packet - 30 packets). Generic: roughly $1 to over $3 per day based on concentration and quantity used daily. |
| Generic Name | Methyltestosterone | Testosterone Gel |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Liver toxicity, signs of an allergic reaction, nausea or vomiting, changes in skin color, increased or ongoing erection of the penis, impotence, ejaculation problems, decreased amounts of semen. | Unusual weight gain or swelling in your ankles or feet, increased urination and thirst, trouble breathing during sleep (sleep apnea), acne or skin changes, unusually high sex drive, signs of a blood clot, signs of liver problems. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Can interact with warfarin and other medications, potentially leading to serious complications. | Specific interactions not detailed, but like all testosterone products, monitoring is needed when combined with other medications to avoid adverse effects. |
| Typical Dose | Oral dosages range from 10-50 mg/day, with 10 mg/day often enough for many men. Maximum dosage should not exceed 50 mg/day. | Initiated at 50 mg/day applied topically. Dose may be adjusted based on blood testosterone levels and clinical response, with a maximum recommended dosage of 75 mg/day. |
What is Methyltestosterone?
Methyltestosterone is one of the earliest functional oral derivatives of testosterone, which marked a significant advancement over previous forms that needed to be administered via injection. Methyltestosterone was first approved by the FDA in 1939 and is typically used in men who do not produce enough natural testosterone. It works by affecting many body systems so that the body can develop and function normally. Methyltestosterone has an extensive influence on muscle development and maintenance but may also impact mood and energy levels.
On the other hand, AndroGel (the brand name for transdermal testosterone) represents another step forward in hormone replacement therapies as it allows for daily application through skin absorption alone. Approved by the FDA in 2000, AndroGel helps increase serum testosterone levels while minimizing potential liver toxicity associated with some orally-administered treatments like methyltestosterone. Similar to its predecessor, it aids growth and development of male sexual organs but may have fewer side effects due to its different route of administration.
What conditions is Methyltestosterone approved to treat?
Methyltestosterone and Androgel are both approved for the treatment of conditions related to low testosterone levels, such as:
- Hypogonadism: This condition occurs when the body doesn't produce enough testosterone. It can be due to problems with the testicles or with the pituitary gland controlling the testicles.
- Certain types of breast cancer in women
- Delayed puberty in boys, specifically when it's confirmed by your doctor and not simply a late bloomer.
Note that while these medications share similar uses, they differ in their form - Methyltestosterone is an oral medication while Androgel is applied topically. Always consult your healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options based on your personal medical history and current health status.
How does Methyltestosterone help with these illnesses?
Methyltestosterone aids in treating conditions associated with a deficiency or absence of endogenous testosterone. It achieves this by providing an exogenous source of testosterone, thus supplementing the natural hormone levels within the body. Testosterone is a vital hormone that plays pivotal roles in both physical and mental health, including muscle mass and strength, bone density, cognition, mood stabilization, libido and reproductive functions among others. In cases where individuals have lower than normal levels of testosterone due to various reasons such as hypogonadism or aging, methyltestosterone can help counteract these deficiencies thereby improving their quality of life.
Androgel also serves the same purpose but it does so through transdermal administration which allows for steadier absorption over time compared to oral intake like methyltestosterone. This may provide more consistent physiological hormone levels throughout the day mimicking natural hormonal cycles more closely while reducing potential side effects associated with sudden peaks and troughs seen with some other forms of administration.
What is Androgel?
AndroGel is a brand name for testosterone gel, which is a topical formulation of the male hormone used to treat conditions in men that result from lack of natural testosterone. It works by supplying or supplementing the testosterone that naturally occurs in the body. AndroGel was first approved by the FDA in 2000 and it's designed to be absorbed through your skin into your bloodstream over time.
Unlike Methyltestosterone, an older oral form of synthetic testosterone, Androgel does not pass through the liver before it enters circulation; instead, it is directly absorbed through the skin. This direct absorption can lead to fewer side-effects compared to methyltestosterone such as less strain on liver function and cholesterol levels.
However, users must take certain precautions when using Androgel including washing hands thoroughly after application and covering application sites with clothing once dry to prevent transmission to others via skin-to-skin contact. The effects of this treatment are beneficial for those suffering from low levels of testosterone but like all medical treatments should be done under doctor supervision due its potential side effects which include mood swings, increased red blood cell count (polycythemia), prostate growth among others.
What conditions is Androgel approved to treat?
AndroGel is approved for the treatment of conditions associated with a deficiency or absence of endogenous testosterone, such as:
- Primary hypogonadism (congenital or acquired)
- Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (congenital or acquired)
It's important to note that AndroGel should only be used in men who have low testosterone levels and are experiencing symptoms related to this condition.
How does Androgel help with these illnesses?
Androgel is a medication that also plays roles in many processes in the body, especially those related to male sexual development and muscle growth. This topical gel works by providing a steady supply of testosterone, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms associated with low levels of this hormone such as decreased libido, fatigue, depression and osteoporosis. Its action on various tissues in the body like bone and muscle play significant roles in its effectiveness as a treatment for low testosterone levels or hypogonadism. Since it does not significantly affect other hormones directly but concentrates more on enhancing testosterone level, Androgel can be prescribed when a patient does not respond well to oral forms of testosterone replacement therapy (such as Methyltestosterone), or may be combined with them if needed under medical supervision.
How effective are both Methyltestosterone and Androgel?
Both methyltestosterone and AndroGel (transdermal testosterone) are potent forms of testosterone replacement therapy, initially approved by the FDA several decades apart. Methyltestosterone was one of the first oral anabolic steroids to be synthesized and has been used since the 1930s, while AndroGel is a relatively newer product, first introduced in 2000. Due to their different routes of administration and pharmacokinetics, they may be prescribed under varying circumstances.
The efficacy of both drugs in treating hypogonadism (low levels of testosterone) has been well-documented over the years. In general terms, both can successfully increase serum testosterone levels to within normal physiological ranges when administered correctly.
A study comparing oral and transdermal testosterone therapies found that although both were effective at increasing serum hormone levels, transdermal formulations like AndroGel provided more consistent dosing with fewer peaks and troughs throughout the day compared to oral versions such as methyltestosterone.
In terms of side effects, a key difference between these two medications is related to liver toxicity: while all forms of exogenous testosterone can stress liver function somewhat due to its role in metabolizing hormones; however because it's taken orally methyltestosterone carries a higher risk than topical treatments like Androgel which bypasses first-pass metabolism through direct skin absorption. This makes Androgel generally better tolerated for long-term use.
Nonetheless, depending on individual patient needs or preferences—such as convenience or cost—either form could be considered appropriate for boosting deficient testosterone levels under medical supervision.
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At what dose is Methyltestosterone typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Methyltestosterone range from 10-50 mg/day, but studies have suggested that 10 mg/day is often enough to treat testosterone deficiency in many men. Androgel, on the other hand, is typically applied topically once daily in doses ranging from 20.25-81 mg per day based upon individual response and testosterone levels. Dosage can be adjusted after a few weeks if there isn't sufficient response or symptoms persist. The maximum dosage for Methyltestosterone should not exceed 50 mg/day and for Androgel it should not exceed 81 mg/day under any circumstances.
At what dose is Androgel typically prescribed?
AndroGel treatment is typically initiated at a dosage of 50 mg/day, applied topically to clean and dry skin on the shoulders, upper arms or abdomen. The dose may then be adjusted by your healthcare provider based on blood testosterone levels and clinical response, with a maximum recommended dosage of 75 mg/day. This gel should not be applied to other parts of the body such as the genitals, chest or back. If there's no noticeable improvement in symptoms after several weeks of therapy at 50 mg/day, consult with your doctor about potentially increasing the dosage up to the maximum limit.
What are the most common side effects for Methyltestosterone?
Common side effects of methyltestosterone include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Skin color changes
- Increased/decreased sexual interest
- Oily skin
- Hair loss
- Acne
Androgel, on the other hand, has some similar and different side effects such as:
- Breast swelling
- Too frequent or prolonged erections -rash, -headache, -dizziness, -unusual weight gain/loss
If you experience any of these symptoms after taking either medication, it's important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Methyltestosterone?
While methyltestosterone and AndroGel are both used to treat low testosterone levels, their potential side effects can differ. For Methyltestosterone, some of the severe but rare side effects could be:
- Signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Changes in skin color
- Increased or ongoing erection of the penis
- Impotence, ejaculation problems, decreased amounts of semen.
When using AndroGel be mindful for signs such as:
- Breathing disturbances including those associated with sleep
- Swelling in ankles or feet and rapid weight gain due to fluid retention
- High blood pressure which can cause headaches blurred vision and chest pain
- Erections that happen too often or do not go away
- Shortness of breath during mild physical activity
- Skin reactions where Androgel is applied
If any above symptoms are noticed during the use of either medication immediate medical attention should be sought.
What are the most common side effects for Androgel?
AndroGel, a popular testosterone replacement therapy, may lead to certain side effects which include:
- Skin irritation where the gel is applied
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Increased prostate growth
- Mood swings and increased aggression
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Acne or oily skin
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
- Changes in sexual desire
- Headache, dizziness
- Swelling of ankles or feet due to fluid retention.
While some of these side effects are common and mild, others can be serious. Therefore it's crucial to consult with your health care provider to discuss any concerns you have about potential side effects.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Androgel?
Even though AndroGel is typically well-tolerated, it can still lead to some serious side effects. Alert your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Unusual weight gain or swelling in your ankles or feet
- Increased urination and thirst
- Trouble breathing during sleep (sleep apnea)
- Acne or skin changes
- Unusually high sex drive
- Signs of a blood clot such as chest pain, sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, coughing up blood
- Signs of liver problems like nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin
- Mood swings ranging from depression to agitation and hostility
These are not all the possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above while using AndroGel contact your healthcare provider.
Contraindications for Methyltestosterone and Androgel?
Both Methyltestosterone and Androgel, like most other testosterone replacement therapies, may cause side effects in some individuals. If you notice any unusual changes such as aggressive behavior, mood swings or worsening of existing prostate conditions while on these medications, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Methyltestosterone nor Androgel should be used if you have or are suspected to have prostate cancer or breast cancer. Always inform your physician about the medications you are currently taking; certain drugs like warfarin can interact with these hormone treatments leading to serious complications.
It is important to note that both methyltestosterone and Androgel can also affect blood sugar levels which might require adjustments in diabetes medication dosages. They could potentially increase the risk of water retention related complications in individuals with heart, liver or kidney disease. Therefore it is crucial for patients with these health issues to discuss their condition thoroughly before starting treatment.
How much do Methyltestosterone and Androgel cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price of 30 tablets of Methyltestosterone (10 mg) averages around $150, which works out to $5/day.
- The price for a one-month supply AndroGel (50mg/5g per packet - 30 packets), is about $650, working out to approximately $21.67/day.
Therefore, if you are taking higher dosages of Androgel, then the brand-name Methyltestosterone would be less expensive on a per-day treatment basis. Please note that cost should not be the primary consideration in determining which drug is right for you.
For their generic versions:
- Generic methyltestosterone (10 mg tablets) is available at an approximate cost between $0.75 and $2.25 per day depending on your dosage.
- Generic testosterone gel can range from roughly $1 to over $3 per day based upon concentration and quantity used daily.
Both medications have comparable therapeutic effects but have different modes of administration; hence it's important to consider other factors such as convenience and personal preference when choosing between them.
Popularity of Methyltestosterone and Androgel
Methyltestosterone, available in both brand and generic forms, was estimated to have been prescribed to a smaller number of people in the US in 2020 compared to AndroGel. This is due to its potent effects and potential for side-effects such as liver toxicity. Methyltestosterone accounted for just over 5% of testosterone replacement therapy prescriptions in the US.
In contrast, AndroGel, which is a topical gel formulation of testosterone, was prescribed to about 1.8 million people in the USA during the same year. In terms of testosterone replacement therapies, AndroGel accounts for nearly half of all prescriptions due to its ease of use and fewer side effects when compared with oral formulations like methyltestosterone. The prevalence rate has remained relatively steady over recent years with only marginal increases or decreases noted.
Conclusion
Both Methyltestosterone and AndroGel are used in the treatment of low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) in men, and their efficacy is supported by numerous clinical trials. Occasionally, these treatments may be combined under a physician's guidance due to their similar mechanisms of action - both work by supplementing or replacing the body’s natural testosterone.
Methyltestosterone is typically administered orally while AndroGel is a topical gel applied directly to the skin. This difference means that they tend to be prescribed under different circumstances; methyltestosterone can be considered for those who prefer oral administration, whereas AndroGel might be more appropriate for individuals with difficulty swallowing pills or who want an easy-to-use application method.
Both drugs have generic versions available – this offers substantial cost savings, particularly beneficial for patients paying out-of-pocket. Both medications require time before noticeable changes occur since hormonal adjustments do not happen immediately.
The side effect profiles between these two treatments are generally comparable; however, each medication has unique considerations. For instance, Androgel should not come into contact with women or children due to potential virilization effects and must enter the bloodstream transdermally through clean dry skin on either upper arms/shoulders (not applied onto genitals). On the other hand, methyltestosterone carries its own risks such as liver toxicity if misused over long periods at high doses. Regardless of chosen treatment option, it's essential patients closely monitor any physical changes when starting therapy and seek immediate medical help if adverse reactions occur.
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Refrences
- Wang, C., Cunningham, G., Dobs, A., Iranmanesh, A., Matsumoto, A. M., Snyder, P. J., … Swerdloff, R. S. (2004, May). Long-Term Testosterone Gel (AndroGel) Treatment Maintains Beneficial Effects on Sexual Function and Mood, Lean and Fat Mass, and Bone Mineral Density in Hypogonadal Men. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. The Endocrine Society.http://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2003-032006
- Hadgraft, J., & Lane, M. E. (2015, May). Transdermal delivery of testosterone. European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejpb.2015.02.015
- Meikle, A. W., Matthias, D., & Hoffman, A. R. (2004, March 25). Transdermal testosterone gel: pharmacokinetics, efficacy of dosing and application site in hypogonadal men. BJU International. Wiley.http://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-410x.2003.04750.x