Jatenzo 158mg Capsules

Manufacturer CLARUS Active Ingredient Testosterone Capsules(tes TOS ter one) Pronunciation Jah-TEN-zoh (tes-TOS-ter-own)
WARNING: High blood pressure has happened with this drug. Have your blood pressure checked as you have been told by your doctor.High blood pressure can raise the chance of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, talk with your doctor. @ COMMON USES: It is used to treat low testosterone levels.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
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Drug Class
Androgen
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Pharmacologic Class
Androgen receptor agonist
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Pregnancy Category
Category X
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FDA Approved
Mar 2019
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DEA Schedule
Schedule III

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Jatenzo is a prescription medicine containing testosterone, a male hormone. It is used to treat adult men who have low testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions (primary hypogonadism or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism). It helps restore testosterone levels to normal, which can improve symptoms like low energy, decreased libido, and muscle weakness.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take this medication with food as directed.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

Keep this medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom. Store it in a secure location where children and pets cannot access it, and consider using a locked box or area to prevent unauthorized use. Dispose of unused or expired medication properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you have questions about disposal, consult your pharmacist. You may also want to check if there are drug take-back programs available in your area.

Missing a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Take Jatenzo exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice a day.
  • ALWAYS take Jatenzo with food. Taking it without food will significantly reduce its absorption and effectiveness.
  • Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the capsules; swallow them whole.
  • Keep all your doctor's appointments and get your blood tests done regularly to monitor your testosterone levels, blood count, and prostate health.
  • Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor immediately, especially chest pain, shortness of breath, leg pain/swelling, or changes in urination.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, as advised by your doctor.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Initial dose: 237 mg (two 118.5 mg capsules) orally twice daily with food. Adjust dose based on trough serum testosterone levels. Maintenance dose: 158 mg (one 158 mg capsule) or 237 mg (two 118.5 mg capsules) or 396 mg (two 198 mg capsules) orally twice daily with food.
Dose Range: 158 - 396 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

hypogonadism: Initial dose 237 mg twice daily with food. Adjust to maintain trough testosterone levels within the normal range (300-1000 ng/dL). Maximum dose 396 mg twice daily.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established (Contraindicated in pediatric patients due to potential for adverse effects on bone maturation and sexual development)
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Severe: No specific dose adjustment recommended. Use with caution due to potential for fluid retention.
Dialysis: Not available. Use with caution.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Severe: Not recommended. Use with caution due to potential for fluid retention and altered metabolism.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Testosterone is an endogenous androgen. Androgens bind to androgen receptors in target tissues (e.g., prostate, seminal vesicles, epididymis, testes, hair follicles, muscle, bone) and stimulate gene expression and protein synthesis. Testosterone undecanoate is an ester of testosterone, which is hydrolyzed to testosterone in the body. Oral administration with food facilitates lymphatic absorption of testosterone undecanoate, bypassing significant first-pass hepatic metabolism.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Variable, significantly enhanced by co-administration with food (especially high-fat meals).
Tmax: Approximately 5-8 hours (for testosterone after Jatenzo administration).
FoodEffect: Absorption is significantly increased when taken with food, particularly high-fat meals. Jatenzo must be taken with food.

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 1 L/kg (for testosterone).
ProteinBinding: Approximately 98% bound to plasma proteins, primarily sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin.
CnssPenetration: Yes (testosterone crosses the blood-brain barrier).

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 10-20 hours (for testosterone after Jatenzo administration).
Clearance: Approximately 1000 mL/min (for testosterone).
ExcretionRoute: Primarily renal (approximately 90% as metabolites) and fecal (approximately 10%).
Unchanged: Less than 6% of testosterone is excreted unchanged in urine.
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Gradual, clinical effects may take weeks to months.
PeakEffect: Peak serum testosterone levels occur approximately 5-8 hours post-dose.
DurationOfAction: Sustained levels with twice-daily dosing.

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

Jatenzo can increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, and cardiovascular death. Patients with a history of MACE or cardiovascular risk factors should be carefully considered. Jatenzo can also increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
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Side Effects

Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek medical attention:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood pressure, including:
+ Severe headache
+ Dizziness
+ Passing out
+ Changes in eyesight
Prolonged or frequent erections
Urination problems, such as:
+ Trouble passing urine
+ Pain while passing urine
+ Weak or dripping urine stream
+ Frequent urination
Loss of bladder control
New or worsening behavioral or mood changes, including:
+ Depression
+ Thoughts of suicide
Enlarged breasts or breast pain
Shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
Upset stomach or vomiting
Trouble breathing while sleeping
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or thinking, balance changes, drooping on one side of the face, or blurred vision
Skin color changes
Changes in testicle size or shape
Signs of a blood clot, including:
+ Chest pain or pressure
+ Coughing up blood
+ Shortness of breath
+ Swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm
+ Trouble speaking or swallowing
Liver problems, which can be life-threatening. Seek medical help if you experience:
+ Dark urine
+ Fatigue
+ Decreased appetite
+ Upset stomach or stomach pain
+ Light-colored stools
+ Vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:

Headache
Diarrhea
Heartburn
Burping

This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, or discomfort in the arm, back, neck, jaw, or stomach (signs of heart attack)
  • Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden severe headache, or problems with vision, speech, or balance (signs of stroke)
  • Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in the leg (signs of deep vein thrombosis)
  • Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood (signs of pulmonary embolism)
  • Swelling in the ankles, feet, or hands (fluid retention)
  • Frequent or difficult urination, decreased urine stream (prostate issues)
  • Enlargement of breasts (gynecomastia)
  • Mood swings, aggression, or irritability
  • Worsening sleep apnea or new onset of sleep apnea
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe stomach pain (liver problems)
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Describe the symptoms you experienced during an allergic reaction.
If you are a male patient with a history of breast or prostate cancer.
* Presence of certain health conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Female Patients:
This medication is not approved for use in females, as it may harm an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss this with your doctor.

Pediatric Patients:
This medication is not intended for children. Do not administer this medication to a child.

Interactions with Other Medications and Health Conditions:
This is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, natural products, and vitamins you are taking, as well as any existing health problems. Verify that it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.

If you have diabetes, it is crucial to closely monitor your blood sugar levels while using this drug.

There may be an increased risk of developing prostate cancer associated with this medication. You should discuss this with your doctor.

Men with an enlarged prostate should be aware that their symptoms may worsen while taking this medication. If you experience any worsening of symptoms, contact your doctor promptly.

If you have sleep apnea, consult with your doctor, as this condition may worsen in some individuals taking testosterone.

Treatment with this medication may lead to elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Although the impact of these changes on heart health is not fully understood, it is essential to discuss this with your doctor.

Regular blood work and other laboratory tests should be performed as directed by your doctor. Additionally, inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication, as it may affect the results of certain lab tests.

There is a risk of blood clots associated with this medication. If you have a history of blood clots, inform your doctor, and discuss the potential risks.

This medication is classified as an anabolic steroid, a class of drugs that has been subject to abuse and misuse. Anabolic steroid abuse can lead to dependence and severe health problems, including cardiovascular issues, stroke, liver damage, and mental or mood disorders. It is crucial to discuss these risks with your doctor.

In some individuals with cancer, high calcium levels have been reported with medications similar to this one. If you experience symptoms such as weakness, confusion, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or bone pain, contact your doctor immediately.

If you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.

This medication is not approved for treating low testosterone levels caused by aging. Discuss the use of this medication with your doctor.

High doses of this medication may affect sperm production in males, potentially impacting fertility. This effect may be irreversible, even after stopping the medication. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Priapism (prolonged, painful erection)
  • Fluid retention (edema)
  • Polycythemia (abnormally high red blood cell count)
  • Mood changes (irritability, aggression)

What to Do:

Seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222). Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Discontinuation of the drug may be necessary.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): May increase anticoagulant activity, leading to increased risk of bleeding. Monitor INR/PT closely.
  • Corticosteroids: Concomitant use may increase the risk of fluid retention and edema, especially in patients with cardiac, hepatic, or renal disease.
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Moderate Interactions

  • Insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents: Androgens may decrease blood glucose levels, potentially requiring a reduction in insulin or oral hypoglycemic dosage.
  • Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): May increase fluid retention.
  • Thyroid hormones: May decrease levels of thyroid-binding globulin, leading to increased free thyroid hormone levels (clinical significance usually minimal).

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Serum Testosterone (trough)

Rationale: To establish baseline and guide initial dosing.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Hematocrit (Hct)

Rationale: To assess for polycythemia, a common adverse effect of testosterone therapy.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

Rationale: To screen for prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy (in men â‰Ĩ40 years old or with risk factors).

Lipid Panel (Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides)

Rationale: Testosterone therapy may affect lipid profiles.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Rationale: To assess baseline liver function, especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

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Routine Monitoring

Serum Testosterone (trough)

Frequency: Approximately 3-6 weeks after initiation or dose adjustment, then periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months) once stable.

Target: 300-1000 ng/dL (normal physiological range).

Action Threshold: If trough levels are consistently above 1000 ng/dL, reduce dose or discontinue. If consistently below 300 ng/dL, consider dose increase.

Hematocrit (Hct)

Frequency: At 3 months, then annually or as clinically indicated.

Target: <54%

Action Threshold: If Hct >54%, discontinue therapy until Hct decreases, then restart at a lower dose or consider phlebotomy.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

Frequency: At 3-6 months, then annually (in men â‰Ĩ40 years old or with risk factors).

Target: Stable or within normal limits for age.

Action Threshold: Significant increase in PSA or abnormal prostate exam warrants further urological evaluation.

Lipid Panel

Frequency: Annually or as clinically indicated.

Target: Within normal limits.

Action Threshold: Significant adverse changes may require intervention or re-evaluation of therapy.

Blood Pressure

Frequency: Periodically.

Target: Normal limits.

Action Threshold: Monitor for hypertension, especially in patients with cardiovascular risk factors.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Signs of fluid retention (edema, weight gain)
  • Symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) such as urinary urgency, frequency, nocturia, decreased stream
  • Signs of cardiovascular events (chest pain, shortness of breath, leg swelling, weakness on one side of body)
  • Mood changes, irritability, aggression
  • Sleep apnea (worsening or new onset)
  • Gynecomastia
  • Skin changes (acne, oily skin)
  • Hair loss (scalp) or increased body hair

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Contraindicated in pregnant women. Testosterone can cause virilization of the female fetus.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: High risk of virilization of female fetus (e.g., clitoral enlargement, abnormal vaginal development).
Second Trimester: Risk of virilization of female fetus.
Third Trimester: Risk of virilization of female fetus.
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Lactation

Contraindicated in breastfeeding women. It is unknown if testosterone is excreted in human milk, but it could potentially cause serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant.

Infant Risk: L5 (Contraindicated - significant documented hazard to infant or mother, or drug is contraindicated in nursing mothers).
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Pediatric Use

Contraindicated in pediatric patients. Safety and effectiveness have not been established. Use in children can cause virilization in females, precocious puberty and premature epiphyseal closure in males, and may compromise adult height.

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Geriatric Use

Use with caution in elderly men. Older patients may be at increased risk for prostate enlargement, prostate cancer, and cardiovascular events. Regular monitoring of PSA, hematocrit, and cardiovascular status is crucial.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Jatenzo is an oral testosterone formulation that MUST be taken with food to ensure adequate absorption. Advise patients to take it with a meal, preferably a high-fat meal, for optimal bioavailability.
  • Unlike other oral testosterone formulations (e.g., methyltestosterone), Jatenzo (testosterone undecanoate) is designed to be absorbed via the lymphatic system, reducing first-pass hepatic metabolism and minimizing hepatotoxicity concerns associated with 17-alpha alkylated androgens.
  • The Black Box Warning for cardiovascular events and VTE is critical. Thoroughly screen patients for pre-existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors before initiating therapy.
  • Regular monitoring of trough testosterone levels is essential for dose adjustment. Ensure patients understand the importance of consistent timing for blood draws (e.g., 5-8 hours after the morning dose).
  • Emphasize the importance of prostate health monitoring (PSA and DRE) in men on testosterone therapy, especially those over 40 or with risk factors for prostate cancer.
  • Educate patients on signs of polycythemia (e.g., headache, dizziness, fatigue) and fluid retention (e.g., swelling, weight gain) and to report them promptly.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other oral testosterone formulations (e.g., Tlando, Kyzatrex - also testosterone undecanoate capsules)
  • Testosterone gels (e.g., AndroGel, Testim, Fortesta, Vogelxo)
  • Testosterone transdermal patches (e.g., Androderm)
  • Testosterone injections (intramuscular, e.g., Depo-Testosterone, Aveed; subcutaneous, e.g., Xyosted)
  • Testosterone buccal systems (e.g., Striant)
  • Testosterone pellets (e.g., Testopel)
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Varies, typically high per 30 capsules
Insurance Coverage: Tier 3 or 4 (Non-preferred brand), may require prior authorization and step therapy.
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which provides crucial information for patients. Please read this guide carefully and review it again whenever your prescription is refilled. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the quantity, and the time it occurred.