Testosterone gel: what it is for and how to use it

Testosterone gel is a medicine indicated for testosterone replacement therapy in men with hypogonadism, a condition characterized by little or no production of testosterone.

In this way, testosterone gel (AndroGel) acts by replacing or supplementing testosterone levels in the male body, alleviating symptoms such as loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, erectile dysfunction and low sexual desire, for example.

AndroGel can be found in pharmacies or drugstores, in gel form in envelopes, sold upon presentation of a medical prescription and should only be used with a doctor’s recommendation, with individualized doses and for the treatment time established by the doctor.

What is it for

Testosterone gel is indicated for the treatment of male hypogonadism, relieving symptoms such as:

• Impotence;
• Loss of sexual desire;
• Fatigue;
• Depression.

This medicine increases testosterone levels in men and is therefore indicated for hypogonadism confirmed by laboratory tests. Understand what it is and causes of male hypogonadism.

How to use

Testosterone gel is a remedy for exclusively topical use, and should be used on intact skin, without wounds, once a day, always at the same time, preferably in the morning, applying a thin layer to the skin of the arm, shoulder or belly, gently spreading.

Recommendations for applying AndroGel are:

1. Wash the skin area in which the testosterone gel will be applied, with water and mild soap;
2. Dry your skin wellwith a clean, dry towel, so that the skin can absorb the gel;
3. Open the AndroGel envelope immediately before use;
4. Apply the entire contents of the envelopeforming a layer of AndroGel on the skin, without rubbing;
5. Let the gel dry naturally for at least 3 to 5 minutes before getting dressed, and leave it on throughout the day;
6. Wash hands with soap and water after application;
7. Keep the skin area covered where the testosterone gel was applied, until washing the area or taking a shower.

AndroGel should not be applied to the testicles or penis as it may cause irritation. Furthermore, it is recommended to wait at least 6 hours after application to take a shower or enter the pool or sea.

Testosterone gel is flammable as it contains alcohol in its composition. Therefore, its use should be avoided near a fire, and, in the case of smokers, avoid smoking until the gel is completely dry.

AndroGel doses can be changed by the doctor, according to the levels of testosterone in the body, and its use should always be done with medical advice.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects of testosterone gel are:

• Reaction at the application site, such as redness, itching, burning sensation, skin hardening, acne or dry skin;
• Headache or dizziness;
• Mood changes;
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea;
• Prostate diseases or breast growth and pain;
• Tingling sensation;
• Loss of hair;
• High blood pressure or reduced levels of good cholesterol (HDL).

AndroGel can also cause serious side effects, and it is recommended to contact the doctor responsible for the treatment if symptoms such as increased urinary frequency, loss of bladder control, pain or difficulty urinating, painful erection or rapid weight gain appear.

Furthermore, you should stop treatment and seek medical help immediately or the nearest emergency room if symptoms of liver problems appear. Know how to identify the symptoms of liver problems.

You should also go to the emergency room if you experience shortness of breath, pain or pressure in your chest, chest pain that spreads to your shoulder or jaw, sudden cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, pain, swelling or redness in your chest. one or both legs.

Who shouldn’t use

AndroGel should not be used by men 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 of the gel.

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

AndroGel should also not be used by pregnant or lactating women. Therefore, it is important that women avoid contact with the man’s skin where the testosterone gel was applied. If accidental contact occurs, you must wash your skin immediately with soap and water.

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