Q: What is the difference between Nuvir and Andrinol? Both are sold by Organon and are testosterone undecanoate capsules 40 mg. Why has my doctor stopped Nuvir and started Andrinol? The reason he gave was that Nuvir affects the liver while Andriol does not. Please explain. I am taking testosterone replacement therapy for low levels. It's a childhood problem with a family history as well.

A:Both Nuvir and Andriol contain the same medicine: testosterone undecanoate. The company claims that the method of absorption of Andriol is via lymphatics and not via blood; hence it bypasses liver. However, liver is not the only organ affected by testosterone. There are other side effects such as weight gain, fertility problems, etc. This hormone is to be taken only when there is proven, documented deficiency that too when prescribed by an endocrinologist.