testosterone topical (patches and gel)

Brand name(s):

testosterone, Androderm, AndroGel 2.5 g/packet, AndroGel 5 g/packet, AndroGel Pump 1.25 g/actuation, FIRST-Testosterone, FIRST-Testosterone MC, Testim

What is the most important information I should know about testosterone topical?

This medication should not be used by a woman. Testosterone can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. A pregnant woman should avoid coming into contact with testosterone topical gel, or with a man's skin areas where a testosterone topical patch has been worn or the gel has been applied. If contact does occur, wash with soap and water right away. Topical testosterone is absorbed through the skin and can cause symptoms of male features in a woman who comes into contact with the medication. Call your doctor if your female partner has male-pattern baldness, excessive body hair growth, increased acne, irregular menstrual periods, or any other signs of male characteristics.

What is testosterone topical?

Testosterone is a naturally occurring male hormone necessary for many processes in the body.

Testosterone topical is used to treat conditions in men that result from a lack of natural testosterone.

Testosterone topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using testosterone topical?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to testosterone patches or gels, or if you have prostate cancer or male breast cancer.

Before using testosterone topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

diabetes;
sleep apnea or chronic breathing problems;
liver disease or kidney disease; or
if you are overweight.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use testosterone topical.

FDA pregnancy category X. This medication should not be used by a woman. Testosterone can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. A pregnant woman should avoid coming into contact with testosterone topical patches or gels, or with a man's skin areas where a patch has been worn or the gel has been applied. If contact does occur, wash with soap and water right away. Older men who use testosterone topical may have an increased risk of prostate enlargement or cancer. If you are over 65, talk with your doctor about your specific risk. Do not use this medicine on a boy younger than 15 years old.

How should I use testosterone topical?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Apply the testosterone topical (transdermal) patch to a flat, clean, dry, and undamaged area of skin on your back, stomach, upper arm, or thigh. Wear the patch for 24 hours and then replace it with a new patch. Apply your patch at the same time each evening.

Choose a different skin area to wear each new patch you put on. You should not use the same skin area twice in a 7-day period.

After removing a patch, fold it closed with the sticky side in, and throw it away in a place where pets and children cannot reach it.

Apply the testosterone gel at the same time each day (preferably in the morning) to clean, dry, unbroken skin on the shoulders or upper arms. Open the gel pouch, and squeeze the entire contents onto the palm of your hand. Apply the gel right away and allow it to dry for at least 5 minutes before you dress. Wash your hands with soap and water after applying the gel.

It is best to cover treated skin areas with clothing while using testosterone gel. This will help prevent getting this medicine on other people. If someone else does come into contact with a treated skin area, they must wash the contact area right away with soap and water.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your prostate or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

It is important to use testosterone topical regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep each skin patch in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it. Do not use a skin patch that has been cut or damaged.

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