Testosterone Gels: Uses, Application and Safety

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone contributes to sexual function, muscle, bone and red-blood-cell production. Hormone levels and age-related changes vary between men. Fatigue, mood changes or reduced strength can have other causes and do not establish a need for TRT. Learn how testosterone results are interpreted.

• Muscle growth and strength: Testosterone fuels the development of lean muscle mass and contributes to increased strength and power.

• Bone health: It helps maintain bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

• Red blood cell production: Testosterone stimulates the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.

• Sex drive and fertility: It plays a key role in libido, sperm production, and erectile function.

• Mood and cognitive function: Testosterone interacts with brain pathways, but TRT is not a general treatment for low motivation or cognitive symptoms.

What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?

Testosterone replacement treats appropriately diagnosed hypogonadism. Diagnosis requires relevant symptoms or signs plus consistently low measurements, generally confirmed on two separate mornings while fasting. Additional testing can help identify the cause. A single low result or age alone does not determine treatment.

Testosterone Gels: A Convenient Delivery Method

‍There are several popular delivery methods of testosterone, The 2 most popular are injections and gels/creams. Testosterone gels are a popular form of TRT for patients who want to raise their testosterone levels without having to receive weekly injections. Application site and frequency depend on the exact product. Many approved gels are used once daily, but their approved skin sites differ. Follow the prescription and product label; see our product-specific application guide. The testosterone is then absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream where it gets transported to throughout the body for use.

Benefits of Testosterone Gels:

Convenience: Gels are easy to apply and can be discreetly used at home or when traveling.
Flexibility: They offer flexibility in dosing and application schedules as the strength of the testosterone and amount used can easily be adjusted, unlike pellets for example.
Systemic risks still apply: Gels can increase hematocrit and blood pressure and suppress sperm production. They also carry skin-transfer risks. No formulation is universally safest; selection and monitoring depend on the patient.
Here are some common brands and forms of testosterone gels and creams on the market that may be prescribed. Additionally many compounding pharmacies can prepare testosterone creams/gels that vary in strength and can be adjusted to meet an indiviuals specific needs/prescription.

• AndroGel: Application sites differ by strength. The 1% labeling permits shoulders/upper arms and/or abdomen; 1.62% is limited to shoulders and upper arms.

• Testim: 1% strength gel applied to the shoulders and upper arms.

• Fortesta: 2% testosterone gel applied to the front and inner thighs, as directed by its product labeling; not to the shoulders or upper arms.

• Vogelxo: 1% strength gel available in tubes, packets, and a pump. Applied to the shoulders and upper arms.

The appropriate dosage and strength of testosterone gel will vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. Testosterone therapy should always be under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can look out for any possible side effects. Potential side effects include skin irritation, acne, and changes in mood or behavior and can be addressed by the doctor if they occur. Additionally, testosterone gels can interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are taking to make sure that there are no contraindications.

This information is not exhaustive, and new products may be available. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist for the most up-to-date information on available testosterone products and their appropriate use.

Important Considerations When Taking Testosterone Gels:

Skin irritation: Some men may experience skin irritation at the application site. If this occurs, call your provider and speak to them about options such as switching products or changing your dose.
Accidental transfer: Secondary exposure can harm others, especially children. Wash hands with soap and water after applying the gel, allow it to dry, and cover the treated skin as directed. Before anticipated skin contact, wash the application area according to the product instructions. If another person contacts unwashed treated skin, wash the exposed skin promptly with soap and water.
Pregnancy risks: Pregnant women should avoid contact with the gel and treated skin. Men taking T Gels need to be aware of this and be careful to avoid transferring the medication to their pregnant partner.
Monitoring: Monitoring includes blood pressure, hematocrit and testosterone testing timed for the prescribed formulation, with other assessment based on individual risks. Follow the clinician’s schedule rather than a generic interval. If you think you may be experienced some side effects from the therapy, you can always call your provider and request to get your blood work done to see if you may need to adjust your dose.

Always Consult a Healthcare Professional Before Starting TRT

A prescribing clinician should assess the indication, fertility plans and individual risks before treatment. Prostate evaluation may be appropriate based on age and risk; testing does not detect every cancer or eliminate treatment risks.

Diagnose low testosterone: Conduct necessary blood tests to confirm a testosterone deficiency. Usually, a physician will check free and total testosterone as well as other biomarkers.

Determine the appropriate dosage: Prescribe the correct dosage based on your individual needs. Your age and goals as well as your actual hormone levels will determine the amount prescribed and follow up blood work will help a physician make any needed adjustments.

Monitor treatment: Follow the prescriber’s schedule for symptoms, properly timed testosterone measurements, blood counts, blood pressure and other indicated checks. Testing only every few years is not an adequate TRT follow-up plan.

Discuss benefits and risks: Ask what improvement is realistic, which adverse effects to report, and when treatment should be reconsidered.

Disclaimer:
This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before starting any new treatment.

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Product-label references: FORTESTA prescribing information and medication guide; TESTIM prescribing information.

Endocrine Society: diagnosis and monitoring guidance for testosterone therapy.