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Ritalin vs. AndroGel

Methylphenidate hydrochloride (Ritalin) is a stimulant medication that's used for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness) in adults and children ages 6 years and older. It works by raising the levels of certain chemicals in your brain to keep you focused and awake. The dosage is typically 2 to 3 times per day because it's an immediate-release form of methylphenidate. Side effects of this medication include low appetite, nervousness, and trouble sleeping.

• Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)

Side effects might differ depending on the formulation. In general:

• Headache
• Anxiety
• Trouble sleeping
• Low appetite
• Weight loss

• Misuse and dependence
• Serious heart problems
• Changes in behavior or thoughts
• Prolonged and painful erection
• Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
• Slowed growth in children
• Serotonin syndrome
• Drug interactions
• Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets only

Testosterone gel is a prescription topical medication used to treat men with low testosterone. It helps raise testosterone levels when your body doesn't make enough naturally. You typically apply it once a day to your skin. Depending on the product, the gel comes in packets, pumps, or tubes. Some side effects include skin irritation, mood changes, and headache.

Note: This medication is available under several brand names, including AndroGel, Testim, and Vogelxo as well as in generic versions. Each might have different strengths, application sites, and instructions.

• Low testosterone (also called hypogonadism)

AndroGel 1.62%

• Rise in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (11%)

AndroGel 1%

• Acne (1-8%)
• Abnormal lab tests (3-6%)
• Skin irritation (3-5%)
• Prostate problems (3-5%)

Testim

• Skin irritation (2-4%)
• Rise in red blood cell count (1-2%)

Vogelxo

• Skin irritation (2-4%)
• Rise in red blood cell count (1-2%)

• Risk of testosterone gel spreading to others
• Higher red blood cell count
• Blood clots
• Worsening of enlarged prostate and risk of prostate cancer
• Higher blood pressure
• Potential for misuse, addiction, and dependency
• Lower sperm count
• Liver problems
• Swelling in the arms and legs (edema)
• Enlarged breasts
• Breathing problems during sleep (sleep apnea)
• Changes in cholesterol levels
• High calcium levels