The "Ongoing Struggle" I still have to this very day....
What I've seen in society and My Family
that I know to be true
My Family problems and the simple ways they could do better
Side Effects of Testosterone Implants in Females in Their Late 30s Over a One-Year Period
Testosterone implants (pellets) are small devices placed under the skin that gradually release hormones over time. While they are primarily designed to address hormonal imbalances, they come with various potential side effects when used in females. It's important to note that testosterone pellets are typically implanted every 3-6 months rather than monthly as suggested in the query, as they're designed for extended release.
Physical Side Effects
Testosterone pellets can cause several physical changes in women when used over an extended period like one year. These changes occur because testosterone is primarily considered a male hormone, though women naturally produce small amounts.
Skin and Hair Changes
When testosterone levels exceed the normal female physiological range, skin and hair changes are among the most common side effects. Women in their late 30s using testosterone implants may experience acne and oily skin as higher testosterone levels stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil1. This can lead to breakouts, particularly on the face, chest, and back.
Hirsutism, or unwanted hair growth, is another common side effect. Women may notice increased hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, or back1. The hair is typically darker and coarser than normal body hair. These effects are typically dose-dependent, meaning higher doses or more frequent implantations may increase the likelihood and severity of these symptoms.
The good news is that these side effects are usually reversible upon reduction of dosage or discontinuation of treatment2. However, if testosterone implants are continued monthly for a full year, these effects could become more pronounced.
Voice and Body Changes
More concerning and potentially permanent changes can occur with prolonged testosterone use. Voice deepening may occur after several months of testosterone therapy, as the hormone affects the vocal cords12. This change is often irreversible even after discontinuing treatment, which is why it's classified as a more serious side effect.
Clitoral enlargement, while rare when testosterone is maintained within female physiological ranges, becomes more likely with prolonged use or higher doses2. Body composition changes may also occur, including weight gain and altered fat distribution to a more masculine pattern2.
Implantation Site Reactions
The procedure itself carries risks. Women may experience pain, redness, and swelling at the implantation site6. More serious complications can include:
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Infection or cellulitis at the implantation site (<1% of cases)3
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Extrusion of pellets through the skin (<1% of female cases)3
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Bleeding or bruising5
With monthly implantations over a year, the risk of these complications would multiply as each procedure carries its own risk.
Hormonal and Reproductive Effects
Menstrual Changes
Testosterone implants can significantly impact a woman's menstrual cycle. Women in their late 30s might experience irregular periods or changes in menstrual flow3. For those approaching perimenopause, these hormonal interventions could potentially mask or exacerbate natural transitional symptoms.
Women who use testosterone without concurrent estrogen therapy may experience increased vaginal bleeding, particularly if they don't adhere to prescribed progesterone regimens3. This is an important consideration for monthly administration over a year-long period.
Sexual Function Changes
Changes in libido are frequently reported with testosterone therapy15. While many women seek testosterone supplementation specifically to address low libido, the effects can be unpredictable. Some women experience increased sexual desire, while others may notice decreased interest in sex5.
Psychological and Emotional Effects
Mood Alterations
Testosterone significantly influences mood and emotional regulation. Over a year of monthly implants, a woman in her late 30s might experience:
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Mood swings that can range from mild to severe1
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Increased feelings of anxiety or aggression in some cases1
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Depression or changes in emotional patterns5
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Racing thoughts or changes in cognition5
These psychological effects can impact relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. For women with pre-existing mood disorders, these changes might be more pronounced or problematic.
Serious Health Risks
Cardiovascular Considerations
Long-term testosterone use in females carries potential cardiovascular risks. Although data specifically for women is limited, testosterone may increase the risk of:
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Heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death (similar to risks in men)5
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Elevated blood pressure5
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Edema or swelling in the extremities5
These risks become particularly important when considering monthly implantations over a year, as cumulative exposure to testosterone increases.
Other Serious Concerns
Additional long-term risks that could develop over a year of testosterone implant use include:
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Potential increased risk for hormone-dependent cancers, though research is still limited in this area4
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Liver or kidney problems in susceptible individuals4
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Abnormal liver function test results5
It's worth noting that testosterone therapy is contraindicated during pregnancy, so women in their late 30s who are considering pregnancy should avoid this treatment45.
Risk Factors and Monitoring Considerations
The risk of experiencing side effects increases with certain factors. Monthly implantations over a year would lead to significant cumulative exposure. Research shows that complications are more likely with:
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Higher number of inserted pellets3
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Increased physical activity in the first week after implantation3
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Pre-existing health conditions, particularly liver, kidney, or cardiovascular issues45
Because of these risks, any woman receiving monthly testosterone implants should undergo regular monitoring including:
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Hormone level testing to ensure levels remain within female physiological ranges
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Liver function tests
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Cardiovascular assessments
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Regular clinical examinations for physical changes
Conclusion
Testosterone implants can provide benefits for women with certain hormonal imbalances, but monthly administration over a year would be unusually frequent and could significantly increase the risk of side effects. Most side effects are reversible with dosage reduction or discontinuation, but some changes like voice deepening may be permanent2.
While overall complication rates are relatively low (around 1% in large studies)3, the cumulative risk increases with more frequent implantation. The safest approach involves careful patient selection, maintaining testosterone within female physiological ranges, and regular monitoring for adverse effects. Women considering this therapy should have detailed discussions with healthcare providers about the potential risks versus benefits, especially for extended use over a year.
Citations:
- https://heal-md.com/side-effects-of-testosterone-pellets-in-females/
- https://thebms.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/08-BMS-TfC-Testosterone-replacement-in-menopause-DEC2022-A.pdf
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8165877/
- https://www.bodylogicmd.com/blog/testosterone-pellets-for-women-understanding-a-unique-treatment-option-for-your-symptoms/
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/testosterone-implant.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/testopel/side-effects-of-testopel
- https://www.drugs.com/sfx/testosterone-side-effects.html
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322642
- https://www.alluremedical.com/negative-side-effects-of-hormone-pellets/
- https://www.stadiamedspa.com/side-effects-hrt/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9331845/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15660-bioidentical-hormones
- https://utswmed.org/medblog/libido-testosterone-women/
- https://herkare.com/blog/risks-hormone-pellets-women/
- https://prostatecanceruk.org/prostate-information-and-support/living-with-prostate-cancer/how-hormone-therapy-affects-you/
- https://www.woodlandsobgynassociates.com/resources/patient-resources/gynecology/hormone-pellet-therapy/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/testosterone-pellets
- https://www.healthline.com/health/low-dose-testosterone-for-females
- https://www.hancockwomenscenter.net/hormone-pellet-therapy
- https://www.joinmidi.com/post/testosterone-for-menopause
- https://www.katyurogynecologist.com/testosterone-pellets-for-females/
- https://www.alluremedical.com/symptoms-of-hormone-pellets-wearing-off/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18781-testosterone-subcutaneous-pellets
- https://www.tangchitnobmd.com/blog/faqs-bioidentical-hormone-replacement-therapy-bhrt
- https://womenswellnessnow.com/service/bioidentical-hormone-pellet-therapy-for-women/
- https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/2005/12050/the_role_of_testosterone_therapy_in_postmenopausal.6.aspx
- https://www.mymenopausecentre.com/gp-resources/testosterone-therapy/
- https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/andro.2021.0003
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2701485/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/testosterone-therapy/art-20045728
Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share
and here's some more about not supplementing iodine yourself, next time DO A LITTLE more research before sharing your all natural remedies.
The Effects of Replacing Iodized Table Salt with Iodine Supplements
Iodine is an essential trace mineral crucial for thyroid function and overall health. While iodized table salt has been a primary vehicle for iodine delivery in many populations since the 1920s, some individuals consider eliminating salt while supplementing with iodine directly. This report examines the physiological, nutritional, and health implications of such a dietary change.
Impact on Iodine Status and Thyroid Function
Iodized salt contains small amounts of sodium iodide or potassium iodide and has been instrumental in preventing iodine deficiency disorders worldwide. When considering the replacement of iodized salt with supplements, maintaining proper iodine levels is the primary concern.
Iodine Requirements and Delivery Methods
Iodine is vital for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, energy production, and brain development. These hormones control essential bodily functions including blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate1. Iodized salt was introduced in the United States in 1924 to address widespread goiter, successfully reducing its prevalence from about 30% to under 2% in Michigan within a decade4.
However, contrary to common perception, iodized salt provides only a fraction of daily iodine intake for most Americans today4. Modern dietary patterns have introduced multiple sources of iodine, including food industry practices that have incorporated iodine-based ingredients in various products since the mid-20th century.
Potential Thyroid Impact of Supplement Use
Replacing iodized salt with supplements could result in more precise control of iodine intake, but it also presents risks. The relationship between iodine intake and thyroid function follows a U-shaped curve where both deficiency and excess can cause dysfunction.
When taking supplements, there's an increased risk of consuming excessive amounts of iodine, which may lead to adverse thyroid effects including:
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Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), particularly in people who previously consumed insufficient iodine7
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Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) in some cases7
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Development of goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)7
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Potential exacerbation of thyroid autoimmunity in susceptible individuals3
Cardiovascular and Health Benefits of Salt Reduction
Eliminating or reducing table salt while obtaining iodine from supplements could provide significant cardiovascular benefits.
Sodium Reduction Advantages
The excess sodium in the typical American diet is associated with numerous cardiovascular problems, including hypertension, stroke, heart attack, and heart failure4. Reducing salt intake by switching to iodine supplements could potentially lower these risks while maintaining iodine sufficiency.
Additionally, reducing sodium may benefit individuals with conditions requiring sodium restriction, including those with heart failure, kidney disease, or hypertension. The flexibility of using supplements allows for separation of sodium and iodine intake, which is impossible with iodized salt.
Broader Health Considerations
While cardiovascular benefits from sodium reduction are likely, salt also serves important culinary and preservation functions in food. The complete elimination of salt from the diet might affect food palatability and potentially lead to seeking other flavor enhancers, some of which may have their own health implications.
Alternative Dietary Sources of Iodine
If considering replacing iodized salt with supplements, it's worth noting that many natural food sources also provide iodine.
Natural Food Sources
Several foods contain significant amounts of iodine:
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Seafood, particularly cod (99 micrograms per 3-ounce serving), tuna (17 micrograms per 3 ounces), and shrimp (35 micrograms per 3-ounce serving)6
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Seaweed, especially kelp, which can provide more than the daily requirement in a small serving6
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Dairy products including milk (56 micrograms per cup) and yogurt (75 micrograms per cup)6
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Eggs, containing approximately 24 micrograms each6
These foods could potentially provide sufficient iodine without supplements or iodized salt, though consistency may be challenging.
Risks and Considerations of Iodine Supplementation
While iodine supplements offer a salt-free alternative for meeting iodine requirements, they come with several important considerations.
Dosage Control and Monitoring
Unlike the gradual intake from iodized salt, supplements deliver concentrated doses that require careful management. Excess iodine consumption is most commonly associated with supplement use, particularly when treating prolonged iodine deficiency7.
Very high iodine intake may cause:
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A brassy taste in the mouth
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Increased saliva production
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Irritation of the digestive tract
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Skin rashes7
Monitoring iodine status clinically has limitations, making it difficult to precisely assess individual needs and risks3. This uncertainty increases the importance of following recommended dosages when using supplements.
Individual Susceptibility Factors
The response to iodine intake varies significantly between individuals based on:
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Personal medical history, especially thyroid conditions
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Genetic factors affecting thyroid function and iodine metabolism
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Environmental factors and previous iodine exposure3
Some individuals may be particularly vulnerable to iodine-induced thyroid disorders even at doses considered safe for the general population3. This highlights the importance of personalized approaches when considering iodine supplementation.
Conclusion
Replacing iodized salt with iodine supplements represents a viable strategy for maintaining iodine sufficiency while potentially reducing cardiovascular risks associated with high sodium intake. However, this approach requires careful consideration of proper dosing, individual health factors, and monitoring for thyroid effects.
For most individuals, a balanced approach might include moderate salt reduction, conscious inclusion of natural iodine sources in the diet, and supplements only when necessary to address specific deficiencies. Those with existing thyroid conditions or other risk factors should consult healthcare providers before making significant changes to their iodine intake method.
The transition from iodized salt to supplements should be viewed as a dietary modification requiring thoughtful implementation rather than a simple substitution, as it affects multiple aspects of nutrition and health beyond just iodine status.
Citations:
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-is-iodized-salt
- https://www.acs.org/pressroom/presspacs/2023/march/four-ways-to-reduce-unwanted-iodized-table-salt-reactions-when-boiling-pasta.html
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2015/312305
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/cut-salt-it-wont-affect-your-iodine-intake
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25270031/
- https://zemvelo.com/staying-iodine-sufficient-alternatives-to-iodized-salt/
- https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/disorders-of-nutrition/minerals/iodine-excess
- https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-sea-salt-and-sufficient-iodine-intake/
- https://www.thyroid.org/low-iodine-diet/
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-35/iodine
- https://www.medicinenet.com/is_iodized_salt_bad_for_you/article.htm
- https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/diet-nutrition/iodized-and-non-iodized-salt-differences
- https://www.healthline.com/health/iodine-uses
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/expert-answers/hypothyroidism-iodine/faq-20057929
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/low-iodine-diet
- https://www.who.int/tools/elena/review-summaries/salt-iodization--iodized-salt-for-the-prevention-of-iodine-deficiency-disorders
- https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/101/4/1737/2804557
- https://www.fredhutch.org/en/news/center-news/2020/10/roth-iodine-essential-element.html
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3509517/
- https://locations.vitaminshoppe.com/wi/milwaukee/vitamins-supplements-milwaukee-wi-214.html
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/
- https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/21/well/eat/should-we-be-buying-iodized-salt.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23417-iodine-deficiency
- https://www.healthline.com/health/iodine-poisoning
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-Consumer/
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sodium-reduction
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/iodized-salt
- https://www.milbank.org/quarterly/articles/a-grain-of-salt/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560770/
- https://academic.oup.com/edrv/article/45/6/858/7693016
Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share
And here's one for Suboxone too,
After 15 years of using Suboxone, patients may experience several long-term side effects in addition to those commonly associated with shorter-term use. Some of the more significant long-term effects include:
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Hormonal imbalances: Long-term Suboxone use can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal hormonal system, potentially leading to adrenal insufficiency57.
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Liver damage: Extended use may increase the risk of liver damage, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like Hepatitis C15.
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Emotional numbness: Many long-term users report feeling emotionally flat or disconnected, struggling to experience natural happiness or satisfaction2.
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Cardiovascular issues: There's an increased risk of cardiovascular adverse events, particularly heart attacks and heart failure7.
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Sleep disorders: Long-term use can lead to sleep-disordered breathing, including sleep apnea7.
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Dental problems: Chronic use may contribute to poor dental health, including cavities, tooth decay, or infections57.
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Chronic constipation: This side effect often becomes refractory to treatment with prolonged use7.
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Hyperalgesia: Increased sensitivity to pain may develop over time7.
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Immune system suppression: Long-term use can affect the body's immune response7.
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Sexual dysfunction: Reduced sex hormones in both men and women can lead to infertility and sexual problems7.
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Bone health issues: There's an increased risk of bone fractures with prolonged use7.
It's important to note that while these side effects can occur with long-term use, Suboxone remains a valuable tool in managing opioid dependence. Regular medical monitoring and open communication with healthcare providers are crucial for managing potential long-term effects.
Citations:
- https://www.woburnaddictiontreatment.com/long-term-consequences-of-suboxone/
- https://www.opiates.com/opiates-blog/the-hidden-side-effects-of-long-term-suboxone-use-what-patients-arent-told
- https://www.marylandrecovery.com/blog/dangers-suboxone-use
- https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/national-helpline
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325827
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3706486/
- https://www.columbusrecoverycenter.com/drugs/suboxone-addiction/symptoms-side-effects/
- https://www.drugs.com/sfx/suboxone-side-effects.html
- https://www.bicyclehealth.com/suboxone-faq/long-term-use
Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share
And don't forget to tell your youngest boy that you were taking opiates the entire time you were pregnant with him, that may be why him and his brother are like night and day. Especially since I knew about it and you have done nothing but add to the rumors and I know you drove up that day because I saw the "green" suv as my neighbor did which is the one my daughter drives today, yet you didn't come in or knock or anything, but when I asked you said "I don't know" and I know you did so who did you talk to outside? .....
And also who is always over at mom and dad's needing support for their problems whether it be health problems or store problems etc? while they can't even show the slightest interest in how I'm doing by calling or asking me one single time since leaving that hell hole they call a home.
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