Transient low testosterone levels after oral hydrocodone may contribute to misdiagnosis of hypogonadism

Harry W. Daniell, MD

doi:10.5055/jom.2016.0347

Authors

Harry W. Daniell, MD

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jom.2016.0347

Keywords:

hydrocodone, hypogonadism, testosterone

Abstract

Context: Multiple morning testosterone levels are needed to establish the presence of male hypogonadism and to justify its replacement therapy. Any influence on these levels by short-term opioid ingestion has not, however, been reported.

Case Description: Serial testosterone levels are reported at 2-hour intervals once weekly for 22 weeks in a man after his ingestion of 0, 5, or 10 mg of hydrocodone.

Conclusions: Five milligrams of hydrocodone did not significantly alter postingestion testosterone levels, but 10 mg ingestion lowered them at 2, 4, and 6 hours postingestion.

Author Biography

Harry W. Daniell, MD

Clinical Professor, Department of Family Practice, University of California Medical School at Davis, Davis, California.

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