Testosterone buccal system

What is this medicine?

TESTOSTERONE (tes TOS ter one) is the main male hormone. It supports normal male traits such as muscle growth, facial hair, and deep voice. This medicine is used in males to treat low testosterone levels.

How should I use this medicine?

Patients should read and understand how to use medicine. Follow the directions given to you by your doctor or health care professional. This medicine is placed on the gums in the mouth. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breast enlargement

• breathing problems

• changes in mood, especially anger, depression, or rage

• dark urine

• general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms

• gum blister

• light-colored stools

• loss of appetite, nausea

• nausea, vomiting

• right upper belly pain

• stomach pain

• swelling of ankles

• too frequent or persistent erections

• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

• unusually weak or tired

• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• acne

• altered, bitter taste

• change in sex drive or performance

• dry mouth

• gum irritation, pain, swelling

• headache

What may interact with this medicine?

• medicines for diabetes

• medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin

• oxyphenbutazone

• propranolol

• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This medicine can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share this medicine with anyone. Selling or giving away this medicine is dangerous and against the law.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not use medicine from a damaged blister package. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• breast cancer

• diabetes

• heart disease

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• lung disease

• prostate cancer, enlargement

• an unusual or allergic reaction to testosterone, soy proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• this drug is not for use in females

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. They will need to check the level of testosterone in your blood.

This medicine is only approved for use in men who have low levels of testosterone related to certain medical conditions. Heart attacks and strokes have been reported with the use of this medicine. Notify your doctor or health care professional and seek emergency treatment if you develop breathing problems; changes in vision; confusion; chest pain or chest tightness; sudden arm pain; severe, sudden headache; trouble speaking or understanding; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg; loss of balance or coordination. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medicine.

Regularly check your gums where this medicine is applied. If you find anything unusual, tell your doctor.

Check that this medicine is still in place after you brush your teeth, use mouthwash, eat, or drink.

This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.

This drug is banned from use in athletes by most athletic organizations.