AndroGel
® (
testosterone gel) is a prescription medication approved to treat low testosterone levels in men due to various causes.
AndroGel is an anabolic steroid and is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States. This means that special laws and regulations control its sale and use.
AndroGel is made by Laboratoires Besins International and is marketed and distributed by Unimed Pharmaceuticals, LLC, a subsidiary of Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
AndroGel contains the hormone testosterone in a special gel that is applied to the skin just once a day. The gel dries on the skin, and testosterone is absorbed into the bloodstream throughout a 24-hour period. AndroGel helps increase testosterone to a normal level.
AndroGel is used as a gel (not taken by mouth) because it would have little effect on testosterone levels if taken by mouth. When medications are taken by mouth, they must first pass through the liver before they reach the bloodstream. The liver metabolizes testosterone extensively before it has a chance to reach the bloodstream, and significant blood levels of the medication cannot be achieved.
However, when testosterone is applied to the skin, it bypasses the liver, allowing significant amounts of the hormone to reach the bloodstream.
Studies have shown that AndroGel returns testosterone levels to normal within the first 24 hours of use. With continued use, this medication helps strengthen bones, increase libido (sex drive), and improve erections. It also improves mood and alleviates fatigue.
Some general considerations for when and how to take AndroGel include the following:
- The medication is a gel that is applied to the skin once daily. It comes in either single-use packets or in a multiuse pump.
- Apply AndroGel at the same time each day, preferably in the morning. Apply it to clean, dry, healthy skin on the shoulders, upper arms, and/or abdomen (stomach).
- Do not apply AndroGel to the genitals.
- Make sure to wash your hands after applying the gel. Give the gel a few minutes to dry before you dress. Make sure to wait at least five or six hours before showering or swimming.
- Be sure to cover the application site with clothing once the gel is dry to minimize contact with women or children. You should wash the area thoroughly before any skin-to-skin contact (such as for sexual intercourse).
- Until the gel dries, it is flammable. Stay away from open flame until the gel is dry.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more frequently than prescribed without your healthcare provider's approval.
The dose of AndroGel your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to the medication
- Your testosterone levels
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Just like any medicine, AndroGel can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. Most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
- Acne
- Prostate problems, such as an enlarged prostate
- A skin reaction at the application site
- Breast development.
(Click AndroGel Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking AndroGel if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose with AndroGel. In one case, an individual who used too much injectable testosterone experienced a
stroke, probably related to extremely high testosterone levels. It is not known if this is possible or even likely with AndroGel.
If you happen to use too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should AndroGel Be Stored?
This medication should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep AndroGel and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets. Make sure to dispose of the used packets and the pump in a way that prevents accidental use by children or pets.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you happen to realize you skipped a dose shortly after the missed dose, it is fine to either skip the missed dose or take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if you are more than a few hours late for your dose, it is best just to skip it and continue with your regular schedule tomorrow.
AndroGel comes in the following strengths and forms:
- AndroGel 2.5 gram packets
- AndroGel 5 gram packets
- AndroGel 1.25 gram pump (which provides 60 doses, with 1.25 gram per dose).
Is There a Generic AndroGel?
