Generic name: testosterone oral (tes TOS ter one)
Brand name: Jatenzo
Drug class: Androgens and anabolic steroids
Jatenzo is a liquid filled capsule containing testosterone. Testosterone is a naturally occurring sex hormone produced in a man's testicles. Small amounts of testosterone are also produced in a woman's ovaries and adrenal system.
Jatenzo is a prescription medicine used as a hormone replacement therapy in adult men with certain medical conditions that cause low or no testosterone levels.
Jatenzo will not enhance athletic performance and should not be used for that purpose.
It is not known if Jatenzo is safe or effective in children younger than 18 years old. Improper use of testosterone may affect bone growth in children.
Warnings
You should not be treated with Jatenzo if you have prostate cancer, male breast cancer, or low testosterone due to getting older.
Testosterone can increase your blood pressure, which can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, or death. You may need to stop using Jatenzo or start taking blood pressure medication.
Jatenzo should not be used to enhance athletic performance.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Jatenzo if you are allergic to testosterone, or if you have:
- male breast cancer;
- prostate cancer; or
- low testosterone due to getting older.
Although Jatenzo is for use only in men, testosterone can harm an unborn baby and should not be used by a pregnant woman.
To make sure Jatenzo is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- heart problems;
- high blood pressure;
- sleep apnea (breathing stops during sleep);
- an enlarged prostate and urination problems;
- liver or kidney disease;
- depression, anxiety, a mood disorder, suicidal thoughts or actions; or
- increased hematocrit or hemoglobin levels on a blood test.
Using Jatenzo may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. Ask your doctor about this risk.
Testosterone can lower your sperm count, which may affect fertility (your ability to have children).
How should I take Jatenzo?
Take Jatenzo exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
Your doctor will perform a blood test to make sure Jatenzo is the right treatment for your condition.
Jatenzo is usually taken 1 time in the morning and 1 time in the evening. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
Always take this medicine with food.
You will need frequent blood tests and your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Your next dose may be delayed based on the results.
Misuse of Jatenzo can cause dangerous or irreversible effects, such as enlarged breasts, small testicles, infertility, high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, liver disease, bone growth problems, addiction, and mental effects such as aggression and violence. Stealing, selling, or giving away this medicine is against the law.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep track of your medicine. You should be aware if anyone is using it improperly or without a prescription.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while taking Jatenzo?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Jatenzo side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Jatenzo: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Jatenzo can increase your blood pressure, which can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, or death. You may need to stop using Jatenzo or start taking blood pressure medication.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- swelling in your feet, ankles or legs;
- pain or swelling in your breasts;
- breathing problems during sleep (breathing may stop);
- unusual changes in mood or behavior, new or worsening depression, thoughts about hurting yourself;
- liver problems - nausea, vomiting, stomach pain (upper right side), dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
- signs of a blood clot in the lung - chest pain, sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, coughing up blood;
- signs of a blood clot deep in the body - pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in your leg; or
- worsening symptoms of an enlarged prostate - increased urination, a weak stream of urine, an urgent need to urinate, or loss of bladder control.
Common Jatenzo side effects may include:
- increased red blood cell counts;
- an enlarged prostate;
- erections that are more frequent or that last longer than usual;
- increased blood pressure;
- nausea, heartburn, burping;
- diarrhea;
- headache; or
- swelling in your lower legs.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Jatenzo?
Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:
- insulin;
- blood pressure medications;
- medicine to treat pain, cough, or cold symptoms;
- a blood thinner - warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven; or
- steroid medicine - prednisone, dexamethasone, and others.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with testosterone, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.