Testosterone Gel Guide Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone topical AndroGel, Testim, and others: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Avoid letting treated skin areas come into contact with other people, especially children and women. You should not be treated with testosterone if you have prostate cancer or male breast cancer. Topical testosterone is absorbed through the skin and can cause side effects in anyone who comes into contact with testosterone topical. The gel or solution form can be transferred to another person if they touch or rub the skin where the medicine was placed or if some of it remains on your hands.
The recommended starting dose of testosterone gel 1.62% is 40.5 mg of testosterone (2 pump actuations) applied topically once daily in the morning to the shoulders and upper arms. Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of testosterone topical gel in the elderly. However, elderly patients may be at an increased risk for developing heart and blood vessel problems, or prostate problems (including prostate cancer), which may require caution in patients receiving this medicine. If you experience symptoms of serious side effects, tell your doctor right away. Allergic reactions to testosterone therapy can increase your risk for similar reactions to testosterone gel.
Androgens, including testosterone gel 1.62%, may promote retention of sodium and water. Edema, with or without congestive heart failure, may be a serious complication in patients with preexisting cardiac, renal, or hepatic disease [see ADVERSE REACTIONS (6.2)]. Due to the lack of controlled evaluations in women and potential virilizing effects, testosterone gel 1.62% is not indicated for use in women [see CONTRAINDICATIONS (4) and USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.1,8.2)].
This what enzyme is needed to convert testosterone to dihydrotestosterone not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. This medicine may affect the results of the prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, which may be used to detect prostate cancer. Make sure you tell all of your doctors that you are using this medicine. Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use. Studies in women breastfeeding have demonstrated harmful infant effects. An alternative to this medication should be prescribed or you should stop breastfeeding while using this medicine.
Changes in serum lipid profile may require dose adjustment or discontinuation of testosterone therapy. Avoid using other medications or skin products on the treated skin areas, unless you doctor tells you to. Just one dose can cause serious side effects in someone using it accidentally or improperly. Ask your pharmacist about a drug take-back program, or how to safely dispose of unused or used testosterone. Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.
A common concern with testosterone gel is secondary transfer, which is when people other than the user come into contact with it, in particular women and children. Treatment of overdosage would consist of discontinuation of testosterone gel 1.62%, washing the application site with soap and water, and appropriate symptomatic and supportive care. Physical dependence is characterized by withdrawal symptoms after abrupt drug discontinuation or a significant dose reduction of a drug.
Tell your doctor if your female partner or child starts to have male-like body changes while you are using this medicine. Such changes may include hair growth on the face, a deeper voice, or a significant increase in acne. The changes may also include an enlarged penis or clitoris, early development of pubic hair, increased erections or sexual desire, aggressive behavior, and bone problems. The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label.
Check with your doctor right away if you have pain or tenderness in the upper stomach, pale stools, dark urine, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellow eyes or skin. Do not give it to anyone else, even if you have the same symptoms. Throw away the empty pump, tube, or packet in a place where children and pets cannot reach it. If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. If you are using the gel in foil packets, tear the packet completely open along the perforation.
Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of liver damage. Stop using topical testosterone and get emergency help if you have any of the following signs of blood clots. The most common side effects of topical testosterone are listed below. These side effects may vary depending on the product you are using. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you. Read this Instructions for Use for testosterone gel 1.62% before you start using it and each time you get a refill. This leaflet does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
Topical testosterone can cause changes in your lipid (fat) levels in your blood, including cholesterol. Keep all appointments with your health care provider to check your blood. Topical testosterone can cause fluid retention, also called edema. Fluid retention can cause serious issues in people with certain conditions, such as heart failure or kidney problems. Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms.
