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Consumer Information
CONSUMER INFORMATION
Testosterone CAS number 58-22-0
USES: This medicated gel contains testosterone. It is used for
hormone replacement in men who are not able to produce enough testosterone
(e.g., hypogonadism). This medication is absorbed through the skin, enters
your bloodstream, and helps your body reach normal testosterone levels.
Testosterone helps the body to produce sperm and to develop and maintain the
male sexual characteristics (masculinity), such as a deep voice and body
hair. It also helps to maintain muscle and prevent bone loss, and is
necessary for natural sexual ability/desire.
This drug should not be used by women.
HOW TO USE: Apply the medication as directed to the clean, dry skin
of the shoulders/upper arms, once daily in the morning or as directed by
your doctor. Certain brands of this medication may also be applied to the
lower stomach (abdomen). Check your Patient Information Leaflet or ask your
pharmacist if your brand may be applied to the lower abdomen. Dosage is
based on your medical condition and response to therapy.
Avoid applying gel to skin with open sores or to broken, irritated skin. Do
not apply this medication to the genitals (penis or scrotum).
After applying this medication, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and
water to reduce the possibility of spreading the medicine from your hands to
other people.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To
help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Allow this medication
to dry completely on the skin before getting dressed. After applying the
gel, wait several hours before showering or swimming (2 to 6 hours depending
on brand) to make sure all the drug is absorbed. If you are unsure how long
you must wait, check the manufacturer's Patient Information Leaflet or ask
your pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, hair loss,
trouble sleeping, change in sexual desire, redness/swelling of the skin,
change in skin color, or acne may occur. If any of these effects persist or
worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she
has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
In patients with diabetes, especially those taking insulin, testosterone may
decrease your blood sugar. Be prepared to treat low blood sugar while you
are using this medication. Symptoms of low blood sugar include shakiness,
nervousness, rapid pulse, and sweating. If you are experiencing these
symptoms, consult your doctor.
For males, in the very unlikely event you have a painful or prolonged
erection lasting 4 or more hours, stop using this drug and seek immediate
medical attention, or permanent problems could occur.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication should not be used if you have certain
medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or
pharmacist if you have: breast cancer (males), prostate cancer.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical
history, especially of: liver problems, prostate problems (e.g., enlarged
prostate or BPH), heart problems, kidney problems, diabetes, high
cholesterol level, lung disease, obesity, difficulty breathing during sleep
(apnea), high blood pressure, bone cancer.
Direct contact with the application site can spread this medication to
others. Protect others from direct skin contact with the application site.
This is especially important for women (especially pregnant women) and
children. You can use clothing (e.g., long-sleeved shirt) to cover the area,
but if you expect to have direct contact with someone else, you should wash
the application site with soap and water in advance. Should anyone's skin
directly contact the application site, their skin should be washed
immediately with soap and water.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C)
away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30
degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom or near an open flame.
Keep all medicines away from children and pets, and throw out used gel
packets in a secure trash can.
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