Testopel is a testosterone replacement product that may increase a man’s risk of stroke, heart attack, and death by 30% within the first 90 days of treatment. If you were not aware of this risk before taking Testopel, you are not alone.
Testopel and Stroke
Testopel (testosterone pellet) is a long-acting treatment for male hypogonadism (low testosterone). Like all testosterone products, Testopel can increase the number of red blood cells in your body, which may thicken the blood and increase blood pressure. This can elevate the risk of developing blood clots. If a blood clot grows in an artery, it can potentially travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
FDA Warns About Testopel Stroke Risk
March 3, 2015 — The FDA has published a Safety Communication to announce that the makers of Testopel and other testosterone replacement products must add warnings about the possible increased risk of stroke. They also must conduct clinical trials to study the risk of stroke. The FDA has emphasized that Testopel is not approved for treating “Low T” due to aging. Click here to read more.
If you use Testopel, seek emergency medical attention if symptoms of a stroke are present, such as:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Weakness in one part or one side of the body
- Slurred speech
Testosterone May Increase Stroke Risk by 30%
The Journal of the American Medical Association published a study in November 2013 linking testosterone therapy to a 30% increased risk of stroke, heart attack, or death.
Of the 8,709 men with low testosterone, 1,223 patients started on testosterone replacement therapy. After three years, 26% had a cardiovascular event, compared to 20% not on testosterone. Conclusions were based on data from men who were generally older (median age 60) who were undergoing coronary angiography at a VA hospital. Many of them were in poor health.
What is a Stroke?
An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot clogs an artery and cuts off the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Within a few minutes, brain cells (neurons) begin to die. This causes brain damage. About two-thirds of people who have a stroke have some sort of disability.
Complications
- Paralysis on one side of the body
- Loss of muscle control
- Incontinence (loss of bowel and bladder control)
- Problems talking or swallowing
- Memory loss or thinking problems
- Emotional problems
- Chronic pain
- Changes in behavior
Stroke symptoms often include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, trouble speaking or understanding, trouble walking, dizziness, severe headache, loss of balance, and problems seeing in one or both eyes.
The National Stroke Association recommends acting “FAST” and calling 9-1-1 immediately at the following warning signs of a stroke:
- F – Face – Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- A – Arms – Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- S – Speech – Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- T – Time – If you observe these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately. Note the time symptoms appear. Certain medications, if given within 3 hours of a stroke, can significantly reduce the risk of long-term disability.
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