The desire for a sculpted physique is driving some amateur gymgoers to – specifically, . This trend is largely being driven by social media, with thousands of posts discussing ways to boost testosterone levels, and high-profile influencers promoting the supposed benefits of using the synthetic hormone – and even recommending products that anyone can purchase online without a prescription. But while synthetic testosterone might improve your appearance in the short term, its long-term consequences to your health should not be ignored.
is a steroid hormone that plays a role in the function of all of our organs. Both men and women produce testosterone, though men's bodies have about circulating testosterone than women. Not only does testosterone drive sexual development and puberty, it also helps us build lean muscle mass and controls bone growth.
This improves our strength, athletic endurance and cardiovascular fitness. can naturally increase testosterone production – including exercise, stress and sex. But using a synthetic testosterone supplement to boost levels – especially in amounts that exceed those produced by the body – will have many effects on your health.
Initially, it may lead to an increase in sex drive and help your body over several months. It acne, male-pattern balding and breast enlargement in men. Women may experience amenorrhea (loss of their period), an increase in body hair, deeper voice and enlargement of the clitoris.
But these side-effects are m.