Axiron

Axiron is a testosterone product that is applied to the armpits. It is approved for use in men with low levels of testosterone due to various causes. Because it is applied to the skin, it does not need to be metabolized by the liver; this allows significant amounts of the drug to reach the bloodstream. Side effects may include headache, armpit irritation, and armpit redness.

Axiron Medication Information

What Is Axiron?

Axiron^® (testosterone topical solution) is a prescription medication approved to treat low testosterone levels in men due to various causes. It is a liquid that is applied to the armpits.

Axiron is an anabolic steroid; as a result, it is classified as a controlled substance in the United States. This means that special laws and regulations control its sale and use.

(Click Axiron Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes It?

Axiron is made by Lilly USA, LLC.

How Does Axiron Work?

Axiron contains the hormone testosterone in a liquid form that is applied to the armpits. It works by increasing testosterone to a normal level. Axiron is used on the skin, rather than 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 adequate blood levels of the medication usually 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.

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