Testosterone (Topical)
Key points
- Treats a lack of testosterone when your body does not produce enough of its own natural testosterone.
- Androgel, Testim There may be other brand names for this medicine.
- You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to testosterone or if you have breast cancer or prostate cancer.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Testosterone (On The Skin)
Testosterone (tes-TOS-te-rone)
Treats a lack of testosterone when your body does not produce enough of its own natural testosterone. Testosterone is a male hormone.
Brand Name(s):
Androgel, Testim
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to testosterone or if you have breast cancer or prostate cancer. Testosterone gel should be used only by men and must not be used by women. Testosterone can cause birth defects if a pregnant woman comes into contact with a man's skin that has been treated with this medicine.
How to Use This Medicine:
Gel/Jelly
- Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
- AndroGel™ should come with an information brochure. Read this information carefully.
- Each dose of AndroGel™ comes in an aluminum-foil packet. Open one packet for each dose. As soon as you open the packet, squeeze the gel into the palm of your hand. Be sure to use all of the gel inside the packet.
- Apply the gel to clean, dry skin on the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen (unless your doctor tells you to use it on another part of your body). Do not use on the genital area. Do not use on skin that has a cut, scrape, or other type of injury.
- Allow the gel to dry on your skin before you cover it with clothes.
- Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after using this medicine.
- Throw away the empty foil packet in a place where children and pets cannot reach it.
- Wait at least 5 to 6 hours after applying this medicine before you shower or swim.
If a dose is missed::
- Apply your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
- Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
- Do not apply two doses at the same time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
