Brand Name(s): AndroGel
Generic Name Testosterone Gel
What is testosterone skin gel?
TESTOSTERONE (AndroGel®, Testim™) is the primary androgen or male reproductive (sex) hormone produced naturally in the body. Normal male sexual development, including the sex organs, increases in muscle mass, facial hair, and deep voice, depends on testosterone. Testosterone gel replaces natural hormone in men with low testosterone production, underdeveloped testes, and/or impotence. Females should not use Androgel® or Testim™. Generic testosterone gels are not yet available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•breast cancer (rare for men)
•diabetes
•blood vessel disease
•high blood calcium levels
•previous heart attack
•prostate trouble
•an unusual or allergic reaction to testosterone, soy proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•if a female partner is pregnant or trying to get pregnant or is breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Testosterone skin gel is applied at the same time every day (preferably in the morning) to clean, dry skin. Do not apply this gel to skin with wounds, open sores, or irritation. Open the packet(s) or tube(s) needed for proper dosage, or, if using the multi-dose pump, pump the product into your hands as instructed. Once the proper dosage is in palm of your hand, immediately apply to the appropriate skin site (see below). You can squeeze or pump the entire dose into your palm at once or just a little at a time to apply, however, be sure you use the correct overall dose. Allow the skin to dry a few minutes before putting on clothing. Wash your hands after applying the gel.
For AndroGel® brand of testosterone skin gel: Apply on the shoulders, upper arm, or abdomen. Do not apply this gel to the scrotum or the genitals. Do not shower or swim for 5—6 hours after application of the gel.
For Testim™ brand of testosterone skin gel: Apply on the shoulders or upper arms. Do not apply this gel to the scrotum, the genitals, or the abdomen. Do not shower or swim for at least 2 hours after application of the gel.
Direct contact of the gel-medicated skin with the skin of another person can result in the absorption of testosterone by the other person. In the case of direct contact with the treated skin, the other person should wash the area of contact with soap and water as soon as possible.
These skin gels are flammable, so avoid fire, flames, and smoking when you apply testosterone skin gel.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
Testosterone gel must be applied at the same time each day. If it is almost time for your next dose, apply only that dose. Do not apply double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with testosterone gel?
•certain medications for fungal or yeast infections, such as fluconazole
•cyclosporine
•growth hormone
•herbal or dietary supplements, like saw palmetto or soy isoflavones
•medicines for prostate problems
•warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using testosterone gel?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•anxiety, depression
•breast tenderness or enlargement
•black, tarry stools or light-colored stools
•dark yellow or brown urine
•erection lasting longer than 4 hours
•frequent erections
•frequent or difficult passing of urine
•nausea, vomiting
•skin rash and itching (hives)
•stomach pain
•unusual bleeding
•unusual swelling
•weight gain
•yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•acne
•headache
•sexual difficulties; changes in sexual desire can occur, and excessive doses can cause impotence
What should I watch for while taking testosterone gel?
Keep all scheduled appointments with your health-care provider; they will occasionally need to check the level of testosterone in your blood to make sure you are receiving the proper dosage of gel.
Female partners may absorb some testosterone if they come into direct contact with the skin area to which the gel has been applied; this may include contact during sexual activity. If a partner has contact with the skin treated with the gel, they should wash their skin with soap and water as soon as they can to remove any gel. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your female partner has any changes in body hair, voice, or an increase of acne. Also, a female partner who is trying to get pregnant should avoid contact with the gel or treated skin.
If you are diabetic testosterone may affect your blood sugar levels. Check with your prescriber or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.
Testosterone is banned from use in athletes by the US and the International Olympic Committees and other athletic organizations.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15—30 degrees C (59—86 degrees F). Protect from heat and light. Testosterone skin gel is flammable; avoid exposure of the gel to fire, flame, and smoking. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
| Available at: www.DrugDigest.org | Last Updated:03/16/2005 |
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