Mechanism of action

Endogenous androgens work in a similar way to synthetic an anabolic steroids and natural and manufactured androgens.
The drugs simulate the ordinary growth of male reproductive organs.
The secondary sex characteristics are also maintained by the above drugs.
The production of ribonucleic acid is stimulated by androgens.
Hence, they enhance reproduction and development of cellular growth.
As a result, more body proteins are synthesized to maintain the lost body cells and tissues.
Nitrogen is also retained by the anabolic influence of androgens.
Inorganic phosphorus is stored through the help of nitrogen.
Consequently, muscular strength and weight gain are experienced because of the above effects.
When exogenous androgens are administered, endogenous testosterone is released. Sperm production may equally be hampered by excess production of exogenous androgens.

Indications

The process or therapy of replacing hormones is the main role of androgens. However, other drug types also have unique indications.
Hereditary angioedema is an indication of both danazol and stanozolol while Male androgenetic alopecia and Benign prostatic hyperplasia are vivid indications of Finasteride.
In the case of inoperable breast cancer or male hypogonadism, it is highly that a patient might have used methyltestosterone and fluoxymesterone while the indication of Postpubertal cryptorchidism is associated with methyltestosterone.
Primary or secondary hypogonadism are indicators of testosterone
Androgenetic alopecia of the male and female types as well as hypertension are indicators of minoxidil while oxandrolone leads to weight gain.
Patients suffering from Erectile dysfunction may have taken drugs such as sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil and avanafil.

Contraindications

Entails known androgen-responsive tumors.
Men suffering from major cardiovascular disorders may have taken sildenafil, vardenafil or tadalafil. It mostly happens when nitrate medications are used.
Severe hypotension is also possible when using erectile dysfunction drugs at the same time.

Tachycardia, hypotension, syncope, depression, drowsiness, rash, impotence, urinary frequency, dyspnea, visual changes and headache are largely caused by alpha1-adrenergic blockers type of drugs.
Hypotension, dizziness, drowsiness and reduced libido are caused by 5-Alpha reductase inhibitors.
Headache, muscular pain, chest pain, hypertension or hypotension, rash, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, priapism, and dizziness are some of the main adverse effects caused by erectile dysfunction medicines.
On the other hand, localized, dermatologic reactions, erythema, dermatitis, eczema, and pruritus are effects associated with Peripheral vasodilator.
Depression , libido changes, anxiety, headache, acne; baldness; high cholesterol level hirsutism, priapism, unusual liver function tests, blood clots, stroke, heart attack and nausea are caused by androgens and steroids.

One of the key nursing interventions is assessment.
Presenting symptoms should be thoroughly assessed.
Taking complete history of patients.
Assessing the past and present medical condition of a patient.
Urinary elimination patterns of a patient should be assessed and documented.
In terms of diagnosis, it is crucial to establish the relationship between nitrates and erectile dysfunction medicines.
Medications should be taken as directed by physicians.

Care should be cantered towards a patient.
Based on the level of education of a patient, offer education on the effects of drugs.
Care givers, significant others and female family members should be educated on general drug use.
Educate them on the importance of putting on gloves.
Patients should be informed about the importance of keeping drugs away from direct sunlight or heat.
Educate patients on why they should avoid taking nitrates alongside with erectile dysfunction drugs.

All types of drugs can be toxic when used in the wrong way. A case in point is Viagra.
Prescriptions should be followed to the letter.
Some drugs may cause impairment of body parts

Anticoagulant activity can either be increased or lowered when anticoagulants are used together with androgens.
Cyclosporine toxicity risk increases with simultaneous use of androgens. Azole antifungal drugs increase impacts of tamsulosin.