Axiron is a liquid testosterone underarm product that is known to cause blood clots in the legs. This medical condition is also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Although DVT is not usually serious on its own, blood clots can potentially travel to the lungs and cause a deadly pulmonary embolism.
Axiron and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Lilly USA, LLC, the manufacturer of Axiron, warns about the risk of blood clots in the legs in the Prescribing Information. This serious side effect can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the legs.
Can Axiron Cause Blood Clots in the Legs?
Axiron contains 30-mg of testosterone per 1.5-mL of underarm liquid. The testosterone is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. In the body, testosterone has a wide range of physiological effects. One effect is an increase in the number of red blood cells. This can increase energy and “pump up” muscles, but it can also thicken the blood, elevate blood pressure, and increase your risk of blood clots in the legs (also known as deep vein thrombosis or DVT).
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Information
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots grow deep inside veins in the body. Nearly all cases involve blood clots in the lower leg (calf) or thigh. However, rare cases involve blood clots in the pelvis, kidney, arm, or other areas of the body.
DVT is not always life-threatening, and many cases resolve without treatment. However, blood clots in the legs can grow very large and damage valves that control circulation in the legs. This can lead to a painful and debilitating condition called post-thrombotic syndrome.
The most serious complication of DVT is a pulmonary embolism. This complication occurs when a blood clot in the legs breaks off and travels through the bloodstream. Eventually it can end up in the lungs and obstruct a pulmonary artery, which starves the lungs of oxygen.