Generic
Testosterone 1% Topical
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Testosterone 1% Topical Gel is used for the treatment of male hypogonadism. It replenishes deficient testosterone levels and maintains male sexual organ development and secondary sex characteristics.
Description
Testosterone is the principal endogenous androgen responsible for promoting male sexual organ growth and development and maintaining secondary sex characteristics in androgen-deficient males. Topical gel application allows testosterone absorption to replenish deficiency and improve hypogonadism symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, and bone loss.
Indications
- Male hypogonadism
Therapeutic class
Male Sex Hormones (Androgens)
Pharmacological class
Androgen
Pharmacology
Testosterone binds to androgen receptors, playing a role in male genital development, spermatogenesis, muscle mass, bone density, libido, and mood. Topical application allows absorption into the bloodstream to replenish endogenous testosterone deficiency.
Mechanism of action
Replenishes male hormone deficiency to maintain sexual and physical characteristics.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Topical):
- Start: 50 mg/day (apply to shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen in the morning; not to genitals)
- Titrate based on pre-dose serum testosterone levels (25 mg/2.5 g, 50 mg/5 g)
- Maximum: 100 mg/day
Administration
- For topical use only; do not apply to genitals
- Apply to clean, dry skin every morning
- Wash hands after application
- Do not dress until skin is completely dry
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply the next morning; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Acne, breast enlargement (gynecomastia)
- Deepening of voice
- Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
- Fatigue, joint pain, back pain
Serious:
- Polycythemia (elevated hematocrit)
- Venous thromboembolism (DVT, PE)
- Prostate cancer risk
- Shortness of breath, frequent or persistent erections
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use in men with breast or prostate cancer
- Do not use in hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria
- Do not use in pregnancy and lactation
- Monitor hematocrit, lipids, PSA regularly
- Caution in heart disease, renal/hepatic disease, epilepsy, migraine
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria
- Men with breast or prostate carcinoma
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug interactions
- Cyclosporine, antidiabetics, thyroxine, anticoagulants: Enhanced activity
- Neuromuscular blockers: Long-term use may cause resistance
- Corticosteroids: Enhanced fluid retention
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Testosterone 1% Topical; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Highly unsafe; may cause virilization of the female fetus; do not use; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Unsafe; drug may cause toxicity to the baby; do not use; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Probably unsafe; do not use in severe kidney disease; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Probably unsafe; do not use in severe liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause acute adverse effects; provide supportive treatment.
Storage conditions
Keep out of reach of children; store at 20-25°C; protect from light.
Chemical structure
Testosterone 1%