Testosterone gel is a medication that is prescribed for testosterone replacement therapy in men with hypogonadism. This is a condition characterized by little or no testosterone production.

Testosterone gel acts by replacing or supplementing testosterone levels in body to relieve symptoms such as loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, erectile dysfunction and low libido.

Testosterone gel can be purchased at a pharmacy with a prescription. It should be used as prescribed by a doctor, as dosing and treatment duration can vary.

What it's for

Testosterone gel is indicated for the treatment of male hypogonadism, and can be used to relieve symptoms such as:

Impotence
Loss of sexual desire
Fatigue
Depression

This medicine increases testosterone levels in men and is indicated for the treatment of hypogonadism that has been previously confirmed by laboratory tests.

How to use

Testosterone gel is a topical medication that is applied to intact skin once a day, always at the same time (preferably in the morning). Apply a thin layer to the skin of the arm, shoulder or belly and spread it gently.

Recommendations for applying testosterone gel are as follows:

Wash the area of the skin where the testosterone gel will be applied with water and mild soap;
Dry the skin well with a clean, dry towel, so that the skin can absorb the gel;
Open the testosterone gel envelope immediately before use;
Apply the entire contents of the envelope, forming a layer of testosterone gel on the skin, without rubbing;
Let the gel dry naturally for at least 3 to 5 minutes before getting dressed, and leave it to act all day;
Wash your hands with soap and water after application;
Keep the area of skin where the testosterone gel was applied covered until you wash the area or take a shower.

Testosterone gel should not be applied to the testicles or penis as it may cause irritation. Furthermore, you are advised to avoid showering or swimming at least 6 hours after applying it.

Testosterone gel is flammable as it contains alcohol in its composition. Therefore, its use should be avoided near an open flame or near a lit cigarette.

Testosterone gel doses can be adjusted by a doctor, depending on testosterone levels in the body. It should be used as prescribed by a doctor.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects of testosterone gel are:

Reaction at the application site, such as redness, itching, burning, skin hardening, acne or dry skin
Headache or dizziness
Mood changes
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Prostate diseases
Breast growth and pain
Tingling
Hair loss
High blood pressure or reduced levels of HDL cholesterol

Other serious side effects, like increased urinary frequency, incontinence, pain or difficulty urinating, painful erection or rapid weight gain, should be reported to your doctor. R

You should stop treatment and seek medical help immediately if symptoms of liver disease appear after starting testosterone gel. Read more about the symptoms of liver disease that you should monitor for..

You should proceed to an emergency room if you experience shortness of breath, chest pressure, chest pain that spreads to your shoulder or jaw, sudden coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or leg pain.

Contraindications for use

Testosterone gel should not be used by patients under 18 years of age, or by adults who have suspected or confirmed prostate cancer, male breast cancer, or an allergy to the active substance or any other component in this gel.

Furthermore, testosterone gel should not be used for the treatment of male infertility or impotence.

Testosterone gel should also not be used by women, pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is important for women to avoid contact with skin where testosterone gel has been applied. If accidental contact occurs, wash your skin immediately with soap and water.