BSN 2-J / NCM 106 – Pharmacology (2023-2024)

BRAGA, SHANE ANN L.

Activity 3: Module 3

MJ, age 16 years, is a high school junior who is 59.3 inches tall and weighs 126 lb. He is
having increased feelings of discomfort about not fitting in with the other students at school
because he has not yet begun sexual maturation. He is a good student and an accomplish
violinist in the school orchestra. His father stated that he also was a late bloomer, but both
parents are concerned about MJ's increasing social withdrawal and seem determined to seek
medical intervention for him. The nurse at the clinic assesses the needs and the status of MT and
his parents

Question.
As a nurse what health teaching should you prepare before the parents decides whether to start
their son on androgen therapy? The decision is made to prescribe methyltestosterone (striant)
30mg twice daily by buccal tablet (held inside the cheek until it dissolves. MT will be given on this
regimen for 4 months, duing which time h is to come to the clinic at monthly intervals.

As a nurse, it is important to educate MJ and his parents with complete health education
before initiating him on androgen therapy with methyltestosterone (Striant). Here are the primary
concerns you should be prepared to discuss:

1. Explanation of Delayed Puberty:

 Explain that delayed puberty is not unusual and can be caused by a number of
causes, including genetics.
 Emphasize that everyone matures at their own pace, and that late blooming does not
always signal a medical condition.
2. Discussion of Emotional Well-Being:
 Cope with MJ's discomfort and social retreat. Encourage MJ and his parents to
communicate openly about his emotions and concerns.
 Explain that it's normal for adolescents to have a range of feelings about puberty and
fitting in, and provide reassurance and support.
3. Explanation of Methyltestosterone (Striant):
 Explain the medication's purpose and how it works. In this scenario,
methyltestosterone is an androgen hormone that can aid in the initiation of puberty.
 Discuss the route of administration (buccal tablet) and the dosing schedule (30mg
twice daily by holding it inside the cheek until it dissolves).
4. Potential Side Effects and Risks:
 Describe possible methyltestosterone side effects such as acne, mood swings, libido
changes, and voice deepening.
 Emphasize the significance of regular follow-up sessions to monitor for any bad
effects or problems.

5. Monitoring and Clinic Visits:

BSN 2-J / NCM 106 – Pharmacology (2023-2024)
BRAGA, SHANE ANN L.
Activity 3: Module 3
 Emphasize the importance of monthly clinic appointments during the 4-month
therapy term. These visits are critical for evaluating MJ's reaction to medicine and
addressing any issues.
 Discuss the importance of compliance with the medication regimen. Missing doses or
stopping treatment prematurely can affect the desired outcome.
6. Expected Outcomes and Timeline:
 Establish reasonable treatment expectations. Explain that physical growth changes
may take some time to manifest, and that patience is required.
 Inform MJ and his parents on the typical schedule for puberty induction and what to
expect during and after therapy.
7. Psychological and Social Support:
 Suggest counseling or support groups for MJ to help him cope with social and
emotional challenges.
 Encourage parents to maintain open communication with MJ, offer emotional
support, and consider involving a mental health professional if needed.
8. Alternative Options:
 Engage in discussions about non-pharmacological methods for dealing with
emotional and social concerns, such as counseling, school counselor help, or
extracurricular activities.
9. Informed Decision-Making:
 Emphasize the significance of making an informed decision about starting medicine.
Ensure that MJ and his parents have all of the information they need to make an
informed decision that is consistent with their values and goals.
10. Address Questions and Concerns:
 Encourage MJ and his parents to ask questions and share their concerns about the
treatment or its potential side effects.

Remember to give MJ and his parents written materials, contact information for clinic
appointments, and to promote continued communication with them throughout the therapy
process. This comprehensive education will enable them to make an informed decision about
beginning androgen therapy and to successfully handle any potential problems.