testosterone blockers – what are the effects?

[Adrian]

Moderator

Quote:

Please note that this thread asks specifically about testosterone blockers. There is already a thread that has talked about the effects of oestrogen.
http://forum.tgr.net.au/cms/forum/F176/2438-438

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[Catherine]

Hi Lauren,

As much as I’d lke to help you out on this one, unfortunately all my body and physical functionality changes are a direct reult of a full HRT regime, which includes T blockers.

Therefore the results of T blockers alone cannot be defined. If you were to check the NSW Gender Centre website out, they have a series of downloadable PDF’s which should answer your query.

Be safe, well and happy
Lotsa huggs
Catherine

[Anonymous]

Ive been on blockers for around 6 months – non prescribed…
Next week I am telliing my GP and asking for a referal for counselling…
(just for the record)

the effects..
– total loss of sex drive
– total loss of libdo
– my testies have shrunk to the point where there is no visible buldge when I tuck ( i can comfortably wear girls undies )
– the hair on my arms takes longer to grow back after epilating
– it is 2 days since I shaved and there is only about half of what was a normal days growth there to shave
– I have been told my appearance/complexion is looking smoother and overall apear “more feminine”

Some more effects ive noticed during the day:
– body hair growth appears to have slowed
– some loss of arm strength when trying to open jars etc
– my boobs are slightly noticeable under work shirt
– my nipples seem to be more sensative to touch (there is a definate feel when brushing something)
– my nipples seem to stand out (most of the time.. with or without them directly touching clothing materials)

– As we age our “t” levels drop naturally and the chance of “man-boobs ” will increase… T-blockers do speed up that process..
Over the last year my T count when from 20 to 13 naturally due to aging
( the average T count for a girl on HRT is 2 – 3 )
Next week I am getting my regular blood work done and will post the out come (for interest)

And as we must remind ourselves – we are not medical experts –
I have been taking them because the offer was there and I am that stage in my life/journey It was/is time…

[Anonymous]

Definitely talk to your GP.

Taking Anti-androgens without anything else could rapidly decrease your calcium levels, possibly leading to early osteoporosis.

Not worth the risk, seek the appropriate help.

[Anonymous]

Today I told my GP that I have been on Spironolactone (testosterone blockers) for the last 6 months…

I then told him of the life he new nothing about… Sally…
I now have a referral to Dr Jaco Erasmus. Consultant Psychiatrist with the Southern Health Gender Clinic assessment team…

I am doing some blood tests next monday…. and was asked if I needed a script for more Spiro…

So I guess using meds under supervision is the correct thing to do… My GP thanked me for being so open with him. He has put Spiro on my files as a prescribed medication.

[Anonymous]

Well done Sally. Good luck and I hope the gender counselling helps you.

Very few GP’s will even raise an eyebrow with regards to transgender issues. Sally has also now got 2 real benefits from telling her GP
1. A referral to a gender specialist who can help her with any gender issues and conflict she may have and help her emotionally and psychologically on her journey.
2. Sally’s GP now has important information regarding pharmaceutical usage and how that may impact on other medications. E.g. not only is Spironolactone an androgen blocker but it is also a diuretic. It could cause an increase in the excretion of certain medications possibly making them less effective. It can also have significant impacts on electrolyte levels and this in conjunction with other medications (e.g. some anti-epileptic medications) could cause life threatening complications if not monitored appropriately.

I would strongly encourage anyone who is taking any medications to at the very least advise your GP of what you are taking. They aren’t going to “report” you and they don’t really care that much what you are taking and why, BUT it is like being in the emergency room when a suspect drug overdose patient arrives. The only reason they want to know what you have taken is so they know how to correct the problem.

[Anonymous]

Quote:

2. Sally’s GP now has important information regarding pharmaceutical usage and how that may impact on other medications. E.g. not only is Spironolactone an androgen blocker but it is also a diuretic. It could cause an increase in the excretion of certain medications possibly making them less effective. It can also have significant impacts on electrolyte levels and this in conjunction with other medications (e.g. some anti-epileptic medications) could cause life threatening complications if not monitored appropriately.

This is important. Not only is spironolactone a diuretic, but it causes you to RETAIN potassium. I was warned by my endoc to not eat too many bananas (rich in potassium).

Best,

Simone.