Word parts
What it means
An androgen hormone that drives male development at puberty: a deeper voice, facial and body hair, muscle growth and sperm production. In all sexes it supports sex drive, bone strength and muscle mass. Testosterone is also given as a drug, by gel, patch or injection, to replace low levels.
For the nurse
Teach clients using testosterone gel to wash their hands after applying it and cover the skin, because touching it can pass the hormone to children and partners. Levels and blood counts are checked during treatment.
At a glance
| Spanish | testosterona |
|---|
Related terms
estrogen
A female sex hormone, made mainly by the ovaries, and the group of drugs that act like it.
hirsutism
Thick, dark hair growing in a male-type pattern, such as on the face, chest or back, in a woman.
endocrine system
The glands that make hormones and release them into the blood to control body functions.