This is a summary only and does not include all possible risks. Review the full prescribing information for any medication and talk with your provider and pharmacist.
GLP-1 medications
Boxed warning: some GLP-1 medications caused thyroid C-cell tumors in animal studies. Do not use if you or a family member has had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Other serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, low blood sugar, kidney problems and serious allergic reactions. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. Not for use during pregnancy.
Hormone therapy
Estrogen therapy has boxed warnings for increased risk of endometrial cancer, stroke, blood clots, heart attack, breast cancer and probable dementia in some women.
Progesterone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, headache, breast tenderness and mood changes. When combined with estrogen, it carries the same boxed warnings for blood clots, stroke, heart attack, breast cancer and probable dementia.
Testosterone therapy may raise blood pressure and red blood cell counts, and can cause secondary exposure risks for women and children with topical forms. It is not approved for age-related low testosterone alone.
ED medications
Do not take sildenafil, tadalafil or vardenafil with nitrates (such as nitroglycerin) or guanylate cyclase stimulators (such as riociguat) — the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Seek emergency care for an erection lasting more than 4 hours, or sudden vision or hearing loss. Common side effects include headache, flushing, upset stomach and nasal congestion. Apomorphine can cause nausea, dizziness and fainting, and must not be combined with certain anti-nausea medications such as ondansetron.
Modafinil
Controlled substance: modafinil is a Schedule IV controlled substance and can be misused. Take it only as prescribed and never share it.
Stop taking it and get medical help right away if you develop a rash, hives, blisters, mouth sores, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing. Serious skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have been reported.
Tell your provider about any history of heart problems, high blood pressure, mental health conditions, or drug or alcohol misuse. Seek help for chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or new or worsening anxiety, depression, mania, hallucinations or thoughts of suicide.
Birth control: modafinil can make hormonal birth control (pills, patches, rings, implants) less effective during treatment and for one month after stopping. Use another method of birth control.
Modafinil is not a replacement for sleep. Common side effects include headache, nausea, nervousness, anxiety, dizziness and trouble sleeping. Do not drive or do dangerous activities until you know how it affects you.