Testosterone Topical Gel (TESTOSTERONE GEL - TRANSDERMAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • hormonal disorder
  • decreased appetite

Brand Name(s): Androgel

Generic Name: Testosterone

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Wash the area and allow the skin to dry completely (10-15 minutes) before using this medicine.

Use the palm of your hand to apply the medicine to clean, intact, dry skin on your shoulder or upper arm. This area should be covered by clothing. Wait for the gel to dry before putting on your clothing. Do not use the medicine on any other area of your body.

Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.

Discard any remaining medicine in the tube after a treatment. Use a new tube each time.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

Do not apply other lotions, creams or gels to the same place you apply this medicine.

Do not use on damaged or irritated skin, or skin that has not healed.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after handling the medicine.

If medicine gets in your eyes, rinse well with cool water.

Do not shower, bathe, or swim for at least 2 hours after applying the medicine.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

This medicine is flammable. Do not use it near heaters, open flame or while smoking. Do not crush, puncture, or burn container.

Cautions

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

This medicine is not safe for women or children. Wash the area where you applied this medication thoroughly before you have skin to skin contact with another person. Keep clothing that has touched the medicine away from women, children, and pets until they can be washed in warm water.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce sperm count.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

You may need to increase the dose gradually to reduce the risk of side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

If you have a painful erection or an erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical care right away.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • acne
  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • dizziness
  • hair loss
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • change in skin color
  • skin irritation where medicine is applied

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • anger or hostile feelings
  • breast pain or swelling
  • breathing interruption during sleep
  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • depression or feeling sad
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fainting
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • mood changes
  • shortness of breath
  • increased urinary frequency
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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