Axiron (Testosterone) - Drug Interactions, Contraindications, Overdosage, etc

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Insulin

Changes in insulin sensitivity or glycemic control may occur in patients treated with androgens. In diabetic patients, the metabolic effects of androgens may decrease blood glucose and, therefore, insulin requirement.

Oral anticoagulants

Changes in anticoagulant activity may be seen with androgens. More frequent monitoring of INR and prothrombin time is recommended in patients taking anticoagulants, especially at the initiation and termination of androgen therapy.

Corticosteroids

The concurrent use of testosterone with ACTH or corticosteroids may result in increased fluid retention and should be monitored cautiously, particularly in patients with cardiac, renal or hepatic disease.

OVERDOSAGE

No cases of overdose with AXIRON have been reported in clinical trials. There is one report of acute overdosage by injection of testosterone enanthate: testosterone concentrations of up to 11,400 ng/dL were implicated in a cerebrovascular accident. Treatment of overdosage would consist of discontinuation of AXIRON together with appropriate symptomatic and supportive care.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• AXIRON is contraindicated in men with carcinoma of the breast or known or suspected carcinoma of the prostate [see Warnings and Precaution ].
• AXIRON is contraindicated in women who are, or who may become pregnant, or who are breastfeeding. AXIRON may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. AXIRON may cause serious adverse reactions in nursing infants. If a pregnant woman is exposed to AXIRON, she should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. [See Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE

Controlled Substance

AXIRON contains testosterone, a Schedule III controlled substance as defined by the Anabolic Steroids Control Act.

Abuse

Anabolic steroids, such as testosterone, are abused. Abuse is often associated with adverse physical and psychological effects.

Dependence

Although drug dependence is not documented in individuals using therapeutic doses of anabolic steroids for approved indications, dependence is observed in some individuals abusing high doses of anabolic steroids. In general, anabolic steroid dependence is characterized by any three of the following:

• Taking more drug than intended
• Continued drug use despite medical and social problems
• Significant time spent in obtaining adequate amounts of drug
• Desire for anabolic steroids when supplies of the drug are interrupted
• Difficulty in discontinuing use of the drug despite desires and attempts to do so
• Experience of withdrawal syndrome upon discontinuation of anabolic steroid use