Cernos Capsules (testosterone) offer men a convenient and discreet method of replacing testosterone, a condition usually called male hypogonadism. Hypogonadism refers to a decline in the natural production of testosterone, either through natural or unnatural causes.

The medication is typically administered to men. Cernos Capsules can be used in children and adults, and it can be used to transition to the male gender. However, use in prepubescent children and women should be done at the discretion of a doctor and will require custom, individualized dosage. Pregnant women in particular should avoid using this product, as it can cause severe fetal harm.

Restoring Deficient Testosterone

By far the most common use of Cernos Capsules is restoring adequate levels of the male hormone testosterone. In sexually mature men treatment is roughly similar:

• Start with 120-160 mg per day for 2 or 3 weeks.
• After the initial higher dose for several weeks, dosage may be decreased to 40-120 mg per day.
• Cernos Capsules may be taken one to three times per day. Twice per day is most common, with the morning and evening meal.
• Capsules should be taken with a full glass of fluid.

Men taking Cernos Capsules for hypogonadism usually notice improvements in male characteristics that failed to form or were lost as hypogonadism started to take over. Common symptoms include:

• Osteoporosis
• Loss of muscle mass
• Fatigue
• Changes in voice pitch
• Loss of libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Infertility
• Enlarged male breasts
• Apathy, depression or mood swings
• Loss of facial and body hair

Treatment may continue for as long as needed, typically long-term, spanning many years. This does depend on the condition being treated, however. One of the most important parts of choosing a testosterone treatment is that it will actually be used; Cernos Tablets are just one of several options, all of which have their pros and cons. Advantages of testosterone administered like Cernos Capsules is that they're convenient, discreet, and have low risk of exposure to other members of the household. They also have very mild adverse reactions.

Other common forms of administration include patches, injections, and gels---including a Cernos Gel. Patches are typically administered once a day, and are otherwise about as convenient as tablets. Gels, also administered once per day, are ideal for men who live alone; there is a high risk of exposure to other members of the household. Injections have the highest risk of adverse effects, and many men have an aversion to daily use of needles.

Potential Complications

Prior to starting treatment with Cernos Capsules, men should discuss risks and warning signs with a doctor if there are other major medical conditions also present. Of particular concern are diabetes, migraines, epilepsy, cardiovascular issues, breast cancer, skeletal metastases, and renal or hepatic impairment. These conditions do not necessarily rule out Cernos Capsules use, but may call for adjusted dosage.

As mentioned above, the capsules should not be used in prepubescent boys who have not achieved sexual maturity without explicit doctor permission. Elderly patients should also use Cernos Capsules with caution, as the medication can cause the prostate to enlarge.

Side effects from administration in capsule form are quite rare, and are usually mild and transient. Most commonly reported are:

• Acne
• Mood changes
• Unpleasant breath odor
• Weight gain
• Hair thinning
• Mild rash or itching

Much less common but more worrisome are serious side effects, which warrant medical attention:

• Breast soreness or enlargement
• Flushing of the skin
• High blood pressure
• Problems/changes in urine/urination
• Black, tarry, or light-colored stools
• Prolonged erection
• Severe fatigue

Cernos Capsules can interact with other medications. Of greatest concern are:

• Anticoagulants
• Beta-blockers
• Antidiabetics
• Corticosteroids
• Cyclosporine
• Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)

Don't be afraid to contact a doctor or pharmacist if experiencing any worrisome side effect or taking another medication that may interact with Cernos Capsules.